There are a many threads that are auto vs manual debates. From my limited time here, they don't end well. :ugh2:

IMHO, based on limited experience with Z's but lots of reading here, neither is really better than the other in the Z, they're just different. Performance is basically a wash, with a nod to the AT in terms of easy-to-launch consistency. Fuel economy is the same. Reliability is also probably a wash. Though with any manual, one can break stuff more easily due to human error (clutches burnt, forcing it into 1st at 80mph, etc).

If you don't want to be bothered to be required to shift, then get an automatic. Set it and forget it. When you need a specific gear, it has paddles. If you commute in the Z through daily heavy stop-and-go traffic, an automatic is probably the smart choice.

If you want a more "dynamic" relationship with your car, both pleasure (absolute control, perfect heel-toe downshifts, the 'coolness' of being in the minority of Americans who know how to drive a manual) and pain (how-do-I-launch-this-thing? stalling. why is the transmission so clunky? clutch-burnout-worry), then buy the manual.

One important note... If you buy a manual, the Sport package adds Synchro-Rev matching. When it's activated, the Z's throttle will automatically match the engine RPM to the correct transmission speed while you're shifting. Basically, it heel-toe's for you. It's a very cool feature, and it's the first (and currently only) car in the world that has this feature.

Good luck!

When given the option, always go for the manual gearbox.

MT

Manual!



IBTL

If you had the Manual in mind before looking at 370z's for sale, the manual is the one you want. Also, you said you grew up driving manual transmissions.
I think it fits the car well. More of a direct, mechanical connection to the power.

Besides the auto is a $1000 option

also oil questions. :icon17:

Trannies and lube....they should be locked.

Go google that and see what pops up.

http://images.icanhascheezburger.com...3150741689.jpg

If you plan on keeping the car and modifying down the line, the auto transmission will eventually be a limiting factor. I don't know about you, but I like to downshift and get into the powerband whenever I want. If you like MT transmissions, the Z with the sports pack and synchro rev is a lot of fun.

Well your buying a sports car... Manual transmission is a must!!! And looks lot cooler imo=) mt ftw!!!!!!!

mt or at... Its a win win situation=)

I wanted an Auto because it was going to be my daily driver but ended up with a 40th Ann. which comes with a manual.

I love this thing. It's no problem in traffic at all and it's way more fun to get it through the gears. Downshifting to bring the engine to a high rev to leave that corner at like Mach 9 is way too much fun...

lp

If you're comfortable looking down in shame every time someone approaches you (and your car) with vivid excitement and asks if it's a "5-speed or a 6-speed?"; if you're comfortable not making direct eye contact (like a man), but instead inspecting the gravel beneath your small, tiny feet as you whimper the sad reply, "7-speed... automatic", then sure, go for the auto by all means.

7AT is fun and practical. The downshifts are epic.