(Posted on Aug 27, 2018 at 05:50AM by Patrick Wensink)
Hey Patrick,
I have my eye on a Nissan Altima, but it is a manual. I learned how to drive one years ago, but I’m curious why auto manufacturers even bother to still make them?
-Bruce
Hi Bruce,
Trust me, you are going to flip out on the road with this car. Yes, I’m a purist, but a stick shift has a ton of advantages that most people overlook.
Experts say it can increase your fuel efficiency by 5-to-15% when used properly.
They are far cheaper to maintain because mechanics have an easier time pulling it apart and putting them back together.
Operating the clutch yourself puts drivers in touch with the car in a unique way. If there’s a weird knock or rattle, you will know it immediately.
It’s an added security measure. According to statistics, manual transmissions are only stolen about 6% of the time. When a robber peeks in the window and sees a shifter they simply give up.
You will love this experience. Many of our owners never want to go back.