Quote:
Originally Posted by PaleMelanesian
The problem with most manual transmissions these days is they have these high-revving gear ratios. The autos often have lower-rpm ratios, which offsets the inherent inefficiency of an automatic. If the ratios were the same, the manual should/would rate higher on the epa test.
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True. I assumed an "all other things equal" in autos vs. manuals. Two reasons for the ratio differences spring to mind. One, sticks may be marketed more for performance so they're geared for acceleration. Two, carmakers are compensating for the fact that autos typically have lower effective ratios at the torque converter stall speed. I do know that sticks still rule in over the road trucking where FE is critical to make money. Eaton actually makes manuals with automatic clutches now.