Manual cars, once the standard for vehicles worldwide, have become rarer on today’s roads, but they still hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts. In 2024, as automatic cars continue to dominate, and with the rise of EVs, many drivers wonder whether there’s still a reason to buy a manual car. The answer? Absolutely.
A manual car offers a unique driving experience that simply can’t be replicated with an automatic. From improved control to potential cost savings, manual cars offer benefits that are hard to ignore. In this article, we’ll explore why buying a manual car in 2024 is still a smart and exciting decision.
Why Manual Cars Still Hold Appeal in 2024
While manual cars have become less common, their charm remains undeniable. In a world where convenience often trumps experience, manual cars provide a level of engagement that many drivers still crave.
The tactile feel of shifting gears, the connection to the road, and the satisfaction of mastering a manual transmission are just a few reasons why these cars continue to attract devoted enthusiasts. In 2024, manual cars aren’t just about transportation; they’re about the love of driving itself.
Greater Driving Control and Engagement
One of the most compelling reasons to stick with a manual car is the level of control it gives you. Unlike an automatic transmission, where the car decides when to shift gears, a manual car puts that power in your hands. Every shift is deliberate, allowing drivers to truly engage with the road.
The precision of controlling gears manually creates a sense of connection between the driver, the car, and the driving experience. For many, this level of engagement is irreplaceable.
Fuel Efficiency and Cost Benefits
In 2024, fuel efficiency is a major consideration for drivers, and manual cars often have the edge. While automatics have caught up in some respects, manual transmissions can still offer better fuel economy, especially in certain models.
The ability to control gear shifts manually allows drivers to optimize engine performance and save fuel during highway driving or in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, manual cars tend to have lower maintenance costs since their transmissions are generally simpler and less expensive to repair or replace compared to automatics.
For drivers looking to save money at the pump and in the repair shop, a manual car is still a smart option.
Lower Theft Rates with Manual Cars
Believe it or not, owning a manual car in 2024 could actually reduce the risk of theft. With fewer people learning to drive manual transmissions, many would-be thieves simply don’t know how to operate them.
This unfamiliarity with manual gear shifting can make your car less appealing to steal compared to its automatic counterparts. In a way, this outdated skill set acts as an unexpected form of theft deterrent, giving manual car owners an extra layer of security without any added cost.
Who Should Consider Buying a Manual Car in 2024?
Enthusiasts Who Love Driving
For driving enthusiasts, owning a manual car is about more than just transportation—it’s about passion. Manuals offer the driver a level of control and engagement that automatics simply cannot replicate.
Shifting gears manually requires skill and timing, making driving feel like a rewarding experience. For those who enjoy the art of driving and relish every aspect of being on the road, manual cars are the go-to option.
Buyers Looking for Affordable Options
For those on a budget, manual cars are often a more affordable choice. Not only do they typically cost less upfront than their automatic counterparts—sometimes by as much as $1,000—but they also tend to have fewer costly mechanical issues.
The simplicity of the manual transmission means fewer expensive components that could break down over time, leading to lower repair and maintenance costs. For budget-conscious buyers, this can make a significant difference in long-term vehicle ownership.
The Challenges of Driving a Manual Car in 2024
While driving a manual car has its perks, it presents certain challenges, especially for newer drivers. With fewer people learning how to drive stick shifts, manual cars can feel intimidating to operate.
The added complexity of using a clutch and shifting gears requires more focus, which can make navigating stop-and-go traffic or hilly terrain more difficult.
Additionally, with fewer manual cars on the market, finding parts and skilled mechanics could become increasingly challenging as the demand continues to decline.
Here are a few of the main challenges:
- Steep Learning Curve: New drivers may find it difficult to learn how to drive a manual, with the added challenge of mastering the clutch and gear shifts.
- Inconvenience in Traffic: Driving in heavy traffic can be tiring with constant shifting.
- Limited Availability: Fewer manuals are being produced, making them harder to find.
- Fewer Mechanics: It may be harder to find mechanics experienced in manual transmission repairs as automatics dominate the market.
Availability of Manual Cars in 2024
The availability of manual cars has significantly decreased over the years, but there are still a few models keeping the manual transmission alive. Despite only 1.7% of new cars sold in the U.S. in 2022 being manual, several automakers continue to offer this option, primarily for performance enthusiasts and specific market niches.
List of Manual Cars Available in the US in 2024
- 2024 Acura Integra
- 2024 BMW M2
- 2024 BMW M3 and 2024 BMW M4
- 2025 BMW Z4
- 2024 Cadillac CT4 V-Series Blackwing Sedan
- 2024 Cadillac CT5 V-Series Blackwing Sedan
- 2024 Chevrolet Camaro
- 2024 Ford Bronco
- 2024 Ford Mustang
- 2024 Honda Civic
- 2024 Jeep Wrangler
- 2024 Kia Forte GT
- 2024 Lotus Emira
- 2024 Mazda 3 Hatchback
- 2024 Mazda Miata
- 2024 Mini Convertible and 2024 Mini Hardtop
- 2024 Nissan Versa
- 2024 Nissan Z
- 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster and 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman
- 2024 Porsche 911
- 2024 Subaru BRZ
- 2024 Subaru WRX
- 2024 Toyota GR86
- 2024 Toyota GR Corolla
- 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
- 2024 Toyota GR Supra
- 2024 Volkswagen GTI and 2024 Volkswagen Golf R
- 2024 Volkswagen Jetta
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, manual cars still offer unique advantages in 2024, from increased driving engagement to potential cost savings. For those who value the driving experience itself, a manual transmission offers control and connection to the vehicle that automatics simply can’t match.
However, manual cars are becoming harder to find, with only a small percentage of new models offering this option. So, is a manual car the right choice for you in 2024? It depends on your priorities—whether you seek the joy of driving or the convenience of modern automatics.
