Did you know that around 96% of Americans drive automatic vehicles? Fewer and fewer people are buying cars with manual transmissions and for good reason. Even though manual cars are cheaper to maintain and much more fun to drive, some enthusiasts still prefer automatic cars.
Why Do Some Enthusiasts Prefer Automatic Cars?
Here are common reasons why some people prefer driving automatic cars over manual vehicles:
Purpose
When it comes to city driving, most people prefer driving an automatic car over a manual one. This is because more work goes into starting, stopping, and accelerating manual transmissions, which can be taxing when driving in heavy traffic. On the other hand, automatic cars allow drivers to move through stop-and-go traffic easily without having to switch gears manually.
Quality
For many, it largely depends on which vehicle performs better. Over the years, manufacturers have developed transmissions that offer the convenience of an automatic with the performance of a manual, such as direct shift gearboxes (DSGs) and ZF 8HP transmissions.
Fuel Type
Fuel type is one deciding factor for many enthusiasts. They prefer an automatic transmission when paired with a gas engine. Gas-fueled automatic cars tend to last longer than their diesel counterparts. Diesel-powered automatic vehicles typically consist of complex mechanical components that are more likely to break down. Furthermore, diesel fuel usually works best with a stick, thanks to its higher torque.
Health and Age
Older drivers and people with health conditions often prefer automatic cars over manual transmissions. Because automatic cars are easier to drive, they’re also less taxing on your knees. In contrast, driving a manual vehicle will tire you out quickly, especially when you’re stuck in traffic after a long day at work.
Personal Preferences
At the end of the day, it ultimately depends on a person’s preference. Some drivers find cars with automatic transmissions the best choice for their lifestyle, while others prefer their trusted old manual cars.
The Best Automatic Cars for a Fun Driving Experience
Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of automatic vehicles that offer a fast and fun driving experience. Here are examples of cool automatic cars on the market:
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 proves just how fun cars with automatic transmissions can be. Under the hood, the 2025 model is equipped with a standard “Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe” (PDK), or “Porsche double-clutch transmission” in English. Originally developed for racing, the PDK transmission has lightning-fast gear shifts and quick acceleration for an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M2 Competition
The BMW M2 Competition is a four-seat coupe that promises quick shifts and precise handling even on winding roads. Equipped with a 7-speed DCT, it can reach a top speed of around 174 mph and accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 4.2 seconds.
Audi RS3 S Tronic
Audi’s smallest sedan is equipped with the seven-speed S Tronic transmission, a double-clutch gearbox that combines features of automatic and manual transmissions for the best of both worlds. The RS3’s S Tronic promises excellent fuel efficiency and a smooth and responsive drive.
Ford Mustang GT
Ford Mustang GT models that come with a 10-speed transmission are all about fuel efficiency and performance. Ford’s SelectShift automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes and the precision of manual control.
Chevrolet Corvette
Driving an automatic Chevrolet Corvette is sure to give you a thrill. Equipped with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 2024 Corvette promises a smooth ride with fast laps. Its quarter-mile time is an impressive 11.2 seconds.
Tesla Model S Plaid
The Tesla Model S Plaid comes with a one-speed transmission that can produce around 1,050 lb-ft of torque and 1,020 horsepower. Aside from its remarkable speed, it also boasts a predictive shifting system that guesses what gear to shift to when you turn on your Tesla.
Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe
For Ford fans, you can’t go wrong with a Thunderbird Super Coupe. It comes with a supercharged V6 engine and an optional four-speed automatic with an electro-mechanical lockup that prevents torque converter slippage.
Honda Accord
When the first-ever Accord sedan debuted in 1979, it featured an optional 3-speed automatic. Today, several year models of the Accord come with a powerful 10-speed automatic or continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can give you the family sedan driving experience and the thrill of manual control.
Honorable Mentions
Other cool automatic cars include the Mazda 6 and Ford Focus ST, which both come with an optional automatic gearbox. Subaru WRX trims with a CVT and Chevrolet SS year models with a standard automatic transmission are also favored among enthusiasts. The M140i from BMW’s 1-series with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission is another popular choice.
Among popular fast automatic cars, the 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI is also a strong contender with a dual-clutch automatic transmission that can cover 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds.
Where to Get Replacement Parts for Your Automatic Car
The fun of driving an automatic car starts with availability. As such, it’s ideal to replace any worn or damaged parts so you can get the most out of your vehicle. Visit CarParts.com if you need to replace any part/component.
We source our auto parts from top manufacturers in the industry, so you’re sure to get a replacement built to last. They come at competitive prices because we want you to get the best value for your money.
After entering your car’s specifications into our vehicle selector, use the search filters to find the part that matches your preferred brand, price, and specs. If you have any questions, our round-the-clock customer representatives are always happy to help.
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