I've read this thread and have to laugh!! First the 7AT is
NOT a faster car then our manual cars!!!! (especially ones' with short shifters!)
Folks are getting confused with the write ups for the DSG (Dual Clutch) transmission cars that are out which act like Automatics but are truely clutch type trannys without a pedal!
Those vehicles (DSG) are quicker then a human driver with a manual. To date any traditional torque converter automatic is still slower then a manual.
Also who wants to hear the torque converter sound with a tuned exhaust??? Sounds like crap!! Cracks me up when folks go buy an exhaust and then post a video on Youtube and then it ends up being an automatic! If your an old man/woman in your twilight years with a hip problem then yes, you need an "automatic". A true sports car requires a clutch with or without human control!!
Also the comment about reliability, Bull!! If you know how to drive a stick it'll last for very high miles!!(I've done 150k on an original clutch on past cars) If there is a problem you can always rebuild depending on what failed. You can't do that with an automatic (in most cases). You generally will need an entire transmision if there is a problem which will cost a whole lot more! It's a definate an automatic trans will go with higher miles also, especially when mated to a performace engine!
I can't stand all the kids out there with there automatic Hondas and such with those big can exhaust pumping that loud torque converter noise!
One more thing, The DSG is an Audi/VW creation that has since been copied by Nissan, BMW, Porsche, etc...let's keep it real!
To review:
Automatic w/ Torque Converter = Bad! (Please do not put an exhaust on it)
Dual Clutch Transmission = OK, fast!! Race Car Tech!
Manual Transmission = Good! Tradition!! Skill!! Fun!!
LOL...How's that for beating around the bush!!
(Notice the ICON shifting!)
