Unpopular opinion: the automatic shift is a completely unnecessary waste of money

Yes, I drive in a city. Yes, I drive in the traffic, frequently getting stuck in it as well.

I don't really get what's the "frustration" people get about the manual shift, after one year of driving you become the automatic shift yourself; why pay over €2k just to eliminate something that you do without even realizing?

While also:

a. adding unnecessary complexity, more parts that can break, and that are expensive to replace

b. actually adding frustration in the process, changing the way you drive (at the very least, how you operate the brakes?)

c. hurting performance to some sensible degree, in particular acceleration

Is it only me?

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

Lugwho · 61-69, M

I did consider getting one at one time to save my clutch knee. I hardly ever drive now though and possibly will do without a car when the current one packs in.

22Michelle · 61-69, T

@Lugwho That's my thinking.I live in a smallish town which is eminently walkable. Walking is healthier, far more sociable and way cheaper. I'm now doing around 5k a year mileage. When this one goes I may just hire when I need a car for holidays etc.

Lugwho · 61-69, M

@22Michelle I work from home, everything I need is in walking distance in our town, and I get a free bus pass. A car is handy for days out, but there's always car hire.

22Michelle · 61-69, T

@Lugwho Cost comparison, but consideration to convenience. Problem is how accurately can you estimate the number and duration of hires, and again the convenience.