Manual transmission percentages for 2009
#17
I don't think the kind of people buying automatic BMWs are worried about the cost. Every BMW dealer I've been to in the past few years has maybe 4 or 5 (out of 100+ cars) manual transmission cars. Way less than the 17.3% number cited. So it's not an availability thing either, people are actually special ordering these cars.
#18
I don't think the kind of people buying automatic BMWs are worried about the cost. Every BMW dealer I've been to in the past few years has maybe 4 or 5 (out of 100+ cars) manual transmission cars. Way less than the 17.3% number cited. So it's not an availability thing either, people are actually special ordering these cars.
#19
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I was half joking when I said that, but you never know. That could be true. A lot of BMW owners are posers (think base 323 or whatever). And also, BMW manual transmissions aren't that great. In fact, they are crappy compare to that of Honda's.
#20
Acura is at 5% for the TL. With the advancements in the automatic trasmissions with paddle shifting , atc the manuals just dont make sense for performance. The automoatics are faster and more comfortable......and even your wife/girlfriends can actually drive a performance car
Take a GT3 as a perfect example. This car is marketed (rightfully so) as being very "race" inspired, giving its driver fantastic feedback and control. It is supposed to be a connective and thrilling drive.
If Porsche wanted to, it would easily be able to replace its manual transmission with a PDK. But that's not what this car is about. Hell, it's not even offered in anything but a manual.
Performance oriented cars, whether its a supercar or just an entry level sports car, should always have a manual transmission as an option. Too bad many manufactures are sacrificing some excitement for marginal performance improvements.
I have respect for companies that give its customers a choice.
#21
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#24
Local Acura dealer in suburbs of Chicago had 1 TL SH-AWD with manual transmission on their lot. They said they've had it since November 2009. Guess it's not all that popular.
#25
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It also means making a GOOD manual. Its harder to make a good manual with tons of torque, they just are harder to shift.
Lexus manuals in particular have always been awful to me. I know I have one I've driven the S2000 and its one of the slickest shifters around so its enjoyable.
Lexus manuals in particular have always been awful to me. I know I have one I've driven the S2000 and its one of the slickest shifters around so its enjoyable.
#26
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I will try and always buy a sports car with a manual, just my preference, but obvious that in only a few short years (ferrari already has called standards dead) they will no longer be available.
#27
Amen. Not too worried though. I doubt that I would ever be able to own a Ferrari.
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#29
#30
Not even remotely surprised. We have one 2009 Toyota left, a Matrix XRS Manual, and one 2010 Camry left.. also a 6-speed