Do Manual Transmission Cars Get Better Gas Mileage?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes. Manual transmission cars generally get better gas mileage than automatic transmission cars. This is because manual transmissions allow drivers to have more control over the car’s engine, which can lead to more efficient driving habits.
How Manual Transmissions Work
Manual transmissions work by using a clutch to connect and disconnect the engine from the transmission. The driver uses a gear shift to select the desired gear, and then uses the clutch to engage or disengage the transmission.
When the clutch is engaged, the engine is connected to the transmission and the car can move forward or backward. When the clutch is disengaged, the engine is disconnected from the transmission and the car can coast.
How Automatic Transmissions Work
Automatic transmissions work by using a torque converter to connect the engine to the transmission. The torque converter is a fluid coupling that allows the engine to rotate at a different speed than the transmission.
The automatic transmission uses a series of gears to select the desired gear. The transmission automatically shifts gears as the car’s speed changes.
Why Manual Transmissions Get Better Gas Mileage
There are a few reasons why manual transmission cars get better gas mileage than automatic transmission cars.
- More Control Over Engine Speed: Manual transmissions allow drivers to have more control over the engine speed. This allows drivers to keep the engine in the most efficient RPM range for the current driving conditions.
- Less Power Loss: Manual transmissions have less power loss than automatic transmissions. This is because manual transmissions use a direct mechanical connection between the engine and the transmission. Automatic transmissions use a torque converter, which can slip and cause power loss.
- More Efficient Shifting: Manual transmission drivers can shift gears more efficiently than automatic transmissions. This is because manual transmission drivers can select the desired gear and then engage the clutch smoothly. Automatic transmissions can sometimes shift gears too early or too late, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency.
How Much Better Gas Mileage?
The amount of gas mileage improvement that you can get from a manual transmission car will vary depending on the car and the driver. However, most studies have shown that manual transmission cars get about 5-10% better gas mileage than automatic transmission cars.
For example, the 2020 Honda Civic gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway with a manual transmission, and 29 mpg city/39 mpg highway with an automatic transmission.
Other Factors that Affect Gas Mileage
In addition to the type of transmission, there are a number of other factors that can affect gas mileage, including:
- Engine size: Smaller engines generally get better gas mileage than larger engines.
- Vehicle weight: Heavier vehicles generally get worse gas mileage than lighter vehicles.
- Tire pressure: Underinflated tires can reduce gas mileage.
- Aerodynamics: Vehicles with sleek designs generally get better gas mileage than vehicles with boxy designs.
- Driving habits: Aggressive driving habits, such as speeding and rapid acceleration, can reduce gas mileage.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a car that gets good gas mileage, a manual transmission car is a good option. Manual transmission cars generally get better gas mileage than automatic transmission cars, and they can also be more fun to drive.
Additional Tips for Improving Gas Mileage
In addition to choosing a car with a manual transmission, there are a number of other things you can do to improve your gas mileage.
- Drive at a steady speed: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.
- Use cruise control on the highway: This will help you maintain a consistent speed.
- Avoid idling: If you are going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.
- Get regular tune-ups: A well-tuned engine will run more efficiently and get better gas mileage.
- Keep your tires properly inflated: Underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance and reduce gas mileage.
- Remove unnecessary weight from your car: Every extra pound in your car reduces gas mileage.
- Drive in the highest gear possible: This will keep the engine speed low and improve gas mileage.
By following these tips, you can improve your gas mileage and save money on fuel.
