I really thought I wanted the 6MT, but after getting the 5AT I realized I got the best of both worlds. I can shift when I want and leave it in auto in heavy traffic situations. I don't have a sixth gear, but my Z doesn't seem to suffer performance wise. I don't know if the 6MT actually gets better gas mileage because both versions have the same gas mileage ratings. I typically get around 28.5 MPG on the highway cruising at 75MPH which is actually above the stated rating on the original factory sales sticker. Take a 5AT for a test drive and see if it changes your mind.

 

i say who cares if youre not payin for 1/2 of it..

 

sure the base model comes only in manual, but it's the things like limited slip diff, HID headlights, aluminum pedals, and other little things on the next up Enthusiast model that more than makes up for it's minimal increase in price. And these extras are worth the extra money.

 

From their perspective... you having a "fun" style of driving in your car is exactly what they are looking to avoid.

 

Ahh.. well burn outs won't be much fun without a limited slip differential. You'll be pulling from just one rear tire

 

Man, your 19 and live in snow/ice country. Your parents should understand if you got the Enhusiast you pick up LSD & TCS; really important safety stuff.

I have two sons & would not think of letting them get a high powered car w/o the best safety equipment..................especially in snow/ice.

 

Tell them to keep their money and then you can buy your manual.

 

>> I really thought I wanted the 6MT, but after getting the 5AT I realized I got the best of both worlds. I can shift when I want and leave it in auto in heavy traffic situations.

It's not really the point of a manual just to select a gear. The manual transmission lets you control the engine revs and the transfer of power to the wheels independently, which adds an extra dimension of control. For me that's invaluable, and is the main thing that makes driving fun.

As for heavy traffic, I'd still rather have the manual just do I don't have to regulate forward motion with the brake. I can't even explain how annoying that is. The manual is a more elegant solution there, too.

 

I can see getting the AT for stop and go driving, but I just don't see how an AT gives me the control of screaming into a tight corner hard on the brakes, blipping the throttle, downshifting, controlling my line and speed with the throttle and powering out of the corner. I have an AT in my MB C320, but it's not the same as a MT. And I have gotten INTO trouble with an AT Camaro Z28 and sudden kickdown. I am not claiming that the MT is necessarily faster in a straight line than an AT. In fact, I can probably launch more reliably on the street with an AT by preloading the drivetrain.

 

Look bro, just go with the automatic. I'm planning on getting an automatic too since there is a lot of traffic where i live. And i'm putting down more than 2/3s for the car. i'm 20, but insurance is going to be under my parents name. Just get the AUTO KID, unless you want to be making payments and putting a down payment of your own, and getting your insurance bill for who knows how much.

 

Get the manual z, just down half, and loan the rest.

 

Cheaper price and better gas milage is all I can really think of haha.
Just beg for your life!!!

 

jus get a manual honda civic jk

 

Most sound advice in this thread.

 

Oh, what a dilemma this kid is in. I would be happy with anything I got.

 

One of the most bad feelings to have is when you regret buying a car.

 

It's funny that everyone that has replied in this entire second page has neglected to see that this guy is getting the manual, and no longer needs any advice on how to convince his parents.

 

I agree if you live in an area with snow/ice/rain LSD and TCS is a must. I have a base myself, but I live in Southern Cali where I can actually do without those goodies. I'd say be very careful.

 

+1

You might be better getting the AT with the extra goodies FormulaRX mentioned
than going the cheaper route and getting the MT. IMO those goodies are a must
have unless you plan to add them in yourself later; which based on your post
i doubt you will since you are strapped for $$$.

 

BTW... I have the AT and it's one of the best AT's I've driven. I used to have
a BMW 330Ci with the steptronic and actually prefer the Z AT over it. IMO the
Z AT in manual mode performs more like a real manual the BMW steptronic. I
can't speak on the SMG since I've never had it. But I heard the first generation
SMG's had a lot of problems anyway. Since there can be a lot of traffic where
I live, having the option to swith to auto mode is a must. Otherwise you will
get some pretty big leg muscles from all the clutch work.