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Old April 12th 11, 02:23 AM posted to rec.autos.tech
Brent[_4_]
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Posts: 4,430
Default Automatic vs. Manual transmission

On 2011-04-12, Steve W. > wrote:
> SBH wrote:
>> It's been well known a manual transmission obtains better fuel mileage than
>> an automatic. My sister is preparing to purchase a Ford Fiesta and wants a
>> manual, mainly for the fuel savings. The sales guy indicated the new
>> transmissions (more so the 6 speed auto in the Fiesta) are better and more
>> fuel efficient than manuals. Anyone know if this is true?
>>
>>

>
> Yep, The computer know how to shift the trans for economy better than
> you do. The only reason that older autos were worse than a stick was due
> to the slippage of the converter and the lack of close gearing. New
> trans have lock up, better gearing, better overall gear ratios and the
> computer controls make them work much better than a stick.


But for small cars with small engines an MT will probably still be more
responsive than an AT programmed for fuel economy.


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