When considering purchasing a car, one of the key decisions is what type of transmission to choose: manual or automatic.
At first glance, it may seem like a matter of convenience, but there are many factors (mechanical, cost, durability, type of use) that mean there is no universal answer.
Below, we analyse the types of automatic transmissions, the advantages and disadvantages of both transmissions, and their durability.
Types of automatic transmissions
Automatic transmissions encompass several technologies, each with its own particularities:
Torque converter automatic transmission (AT)
This is the classic type.
Although they were jerky at first, they have improved greatly in recent years, offering greater smoothness, more gears and lower fuel consumption.
For high-displacement engines, they are the most recommended option if used in sequential mode.
Dual-clutch transmission
Depending on the manufacturer, this type of transmission is also known by its acronyms DCT, PDK, DKG, EDC, etc.
It allows for very fast gear changes and good efficiency, as gears are preselected.
It requires less time for gear changes during acceleration and performance. However, it can be more complex and delicate if not used properly.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
These are commonly used in hybrid vehicle models.
They offer a continuously variable transmission ratio, without conventional fixed gears, using pulleys and belts or chains.
It provides a smooth transition, allows for optimised revs and can offer very good fuel efficiency under certain conditions.
However, it has limitations in terms of robustness in very powerful vehicles or when high torque is required.
AMT / Automated Manual Transmission
This is a basic manual transmission, but with automatic mechanisms for the clutch and gear changes. It is more ‘assisted’ than fully automatic.
To change gear, you do not need to press the clutch, but simply lift your foot off the accelerator. Otherwise, the gear change will be very abrupt.
It is usually cheaper than a traditional automatic, but the gear changes may feel less smooth.
Manual transmission: Pros and cons
Advantages
- Greater driver control: You can choose the exact moment to shift up or down, useful when cornering, going downhill, in difficult traction situations, or when you want to ‘squeeze’ the car.
- Lower initial purchase cost: Manual cars are generally simpler, with fewer electronic or hydraulic components.
- Simpler and cheaper maintenance: Fewer parts that can fail, although there is wear and tear on the clutch, synchronisers, and mechanical components.
- Potential fuel savings under the right conditions: If you drive well, shifting at the optimum revs, you can take advantage of efficiency. Some studies estimate a 5-15% improvement over less modern automatics.
Disadvantages
- Greater physical effort and attention: In urban traffic, on slopes, with frequent braking or stopping, constant use of the clutch and gear changes can be tiring.
- Learning curve: It is not intuitive for everyone; mistakes such as stalling, poor gear synchronisation or shifting gears too early or too late can affect the car.
- Less comfort in heavy traffic: Frequent stops and starts involve intensive use of the clutch and gear lever.
- Wear and tear if used incorrectly: An inexperienced driver can increase wear and tear on the clutch and synchronisers, and even cause premature failure.
Automatic transmission: pros and cons
Advantages
- Comfort/ease of use: There is no clutch pedal, and gear changes are automatic (or highly assisted). Ideal for urban traffic, for those who do not want to or cannot worry about gear changes.
- Less driving fatigue: This is very noticeable on long journeys or in heavy traffic.
- Smooth gear changes, better electronic adaptation: Modern systems (CVT, DCT) optimise gear changes, improve response and make better use of the engine.
- Lower risk of driver error: The car does not stall when the clutch is pressed incorrectly, and there is less wear and tear due to human “misuse”.
Disadvantages
- Higher cost (purchase, maintenance, repair): The parts are more complex, there are hydraulics, electronics, sensors, torque converters, etc.
- Possibly lower fuel efficiency in some models: Especially older automatic transmissions or those with non-locking torque converters, where there are energy losses. However, this has been reduced with technological advances.
- Less direct control: In very demanding situations, such as off-road driving, steep climbs, or descents requiring engine braking, you may not have as much control as with a manual transmission.
- Greater technical complexity: more points of failure: sensors, control units, torque converter, etc. More expensive spare parts.
Which lasts longer, a manual or an automatic vehicle?
Durability depends greatly on use, maintenance, transmission quality, and driving style, but there are some clear trends:
Manual transmissions, due to their mechanical simplicity, tend to have fewer parts that can fail. If the driver shifts gears properly, does not overload the clutch, and respects service intervals, many manual gearboxes achieve high mileage with few problems.
Automatic transmissions have more susceptible components: torque converters, sensors, electronics, hydraulics, and sometimes more complicated designs (dual-clutch transmissions, CVTs, etc.). These components may require specialised maintenance and, if not cared for, can fail.
However, modern automatic transmissions have greatly improved in durability: torque converters can include a ‘lock-up’ feature to prevent energy loss in certain gears; good-quality CVTs have materials and designs that increase resistance; well-designed DCTs are quite durable if used properly.
In many cases, the actual service life of an automatic transmission will depend more on how it has been maintained (transmission oil changes, filter if applicable, avoiding overheating, not overusing sport mode, etc.) than on the transmission itself.
In short, a well-maintained manual car will probably last longer without major breakdowns compared to less well-maintained automatic cars, but a modern, well-maintained automatic can also offer very good durability.
Conclusion
The best transmission depends on what you value most and how you intend to use the car.
If you value control, low cost, simple mechanical durability, and enjoy driving, a manual transmission may be the best option.
If you prefer comfort, ease of driving (especially in the city or in heavy traffic), long journeys, and hybrid systems, then an automatic is probably more suitable for you.
For demanding journeys, frequent use, harsh conditions, harsh weather, and safe driving, the choice must take into account the maintenance and quality of the automatic transmission chosen.
In hybrid cars, automatic transmissions (CVT or electronic variations) are most commonly used, as they allow for better integration of combustion and electric engines, optimise the use of the combustion engine, and prevent the driver from having to manage gears manually.
