When you’re in the process of purchasing a used car, you’re probably going to find out that you’re going to have to make a lot of choices.  Do you want power windows?  Do you want power locks?  The more you add, the more you’re going to have to pay.

The common question that comes up quite often is, “Should I get an automatic or manual?”  While they have their pros and cons, let’s take a look at each one individually.  By doing so, you should be able to make a fantastic decision.

Pros and Cons of an Automatic Transmission

• It’s a lot easier to operate.  You can just shift it into drive and not worry about a thing.  You don’t have to worry about stalling out or rolling backwards on a hill.
• You don’t have to worry about using your left foot.  With the clutch, you will always have to have your foot ready to push the clutch down when you have to switch gears.
• You’re going to find that an Automatic burns more gasoline. While studies have shown that they use 10% more, they are getting better and better as technology progresses.
• When you’re ready to choose a car, you will find that more cars have automatics than any other car.  This is going to make your selection a lot easier, as many don’t have a manual.
• An automatic car will be more expensive when you want to make a purchase.  If your budget is important, you will find that the manual based cars are going to be a lot cheaper.

Pros and Cons of a Manual Transmission

• With a manual, you will find that you can get better gas mileage.  If you want to save money, the car purchase will be cheaper and you will save more on gasoline purchases as well.
• With a manual, if you find that performance is your main concern, a manual will be a lot more fun to drive around.  Why purchase a sports car when you have a manual transmission?
• Manuals can be a pain in the butt to drive when you’re in the city.  The highway is a whole another story, but if you’re driving at a stop and go basis, you’re going to be doing a lot of shifting.
• While everyone can learn how to shift a manual, it can take some time to get used to.  You will have to use your left foot a lot more than usual and you will also find that stalling will be a main concern.

It really comes down to personal preference.  I prefer an automatic because I just like things easy in life.  I can shift it into automatic and be on my way.  While I can see why people want a manual, an automatic is going to make a life a lot easier.