I just have a beginners question... When you go to the dealer you have the option to buy automatic or manual correct , well my question is for the same model, year ,make will the automatic and standard transmission have the same amount of gears or will they differ. Ex: they sell you at a dealer a 5 speed manual, same make, same model as an automatic tranny car, will they both have the same amount of gears or will they differ. I am assuming that if the 5 speed will have 5 gears will the manual also have 5 ?

It will differ greatly with different vehicles re the # of speeds. Many 3 speed automatics are just that and lock up for what feels like a 4th AKA "overdrive" and that same car might be sold with a 5 speed std.

The actual MPG you get will also depend mostly on you. Many times a std trans is less expensive and the car priced accordingly. If a first car for you or if you plan lots of stop and go as your routine I think you'll fare better with the automatic and either way it's a personal choice.

Some cars won't be available in standard trans at all,

T
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Tom Greenleaf - MetroWest, Boston

I agree with Tom, completely. Automatic transmissions have come a long ways over the years. There was a time in my life (I think I can remember that far back) that I wouldn't have an automatic. Now, I wouldn't own a standard. Tom's right again that the fuel economy, if driven 'normally' will be better with the standard, but a very slight difference. It is so nice to be able to hold a cup of coffee in one hand and drive with the other. Not so, with a stick. Not to mention having to hold the clutch pedal down while waiting at a stop light. Clutches can last up to 100,000 miles if driven correctly. Same with automatics, if maintained. Personally, I've never had to replace a clutch or an automatic transmission in any modern vehicle I've owned. Maintenance is the secret word.
Speeds; My wife's car has a four speed automatic, my truck has a five speed automatic. Believe me, automatics shift faster than ANY standard. Funny Cars run autos.
Good luck with whatever decision you make and enjoy your new car!
Loren
SW WA

good day! they are both right with what they said. what i want to add is that having an automatic will be a big help for your its very convenient to drive however on the other hand if your the more adventurous kind of person. you will find manual trans more exciting to drive. youl be enjoying the full control over the machine, you will be the one to decide how far can your engine go :) and 1 more thing if your the kind who likes traveling i suggest go for the manual trans because youll never know when you will be driving a manual ayt! hope this help.