Manual transmission (MT)
* Operating principle: Gear shifting is performed manually by the driver using the shift lever and clutch pedal. The driver has full control over the gear shifting process, choosing the desired gear depending on the speed and load.
* Peculiarities:
*Requires manual shifting skills.
*Gives more control over the car.
* As a rule, more economical compared to automatic transmission.
*Can withstand higher loads.
* Less suitable for driving in traffic jams and dense city traffic.
Automatic transmission (AT)
* Operating principle: Gear shifting occurs automatically without driver intervention using an electronic control unit and a hydraulic mechanism. The driver selects an operating mode (for example, «D» for forward or «P» for park) and operates the vehicle using only the gas and brake pedals.
* Peculiarities:
* Automates the gear shifting process.
* Makes driving easier, especially in urban environments.
* More comfortable and easy to use.
*More common in modern cars.
*May be less economical than manual transmission.
*Not suitable for off-road driving or heavy towing applications.
Main differences
| Characteristics | Manual transmission | Automatic |
|—|—|—|
| Management | Manual | Automatic |
| Required Skills | Ability to manually shift gears required | Not required |
| Control | The driver selects gears | The gearbox selects its own gears |
| Economical | More economical | Less economical |
| Reliability | More reliable with proper maintenance | May be less reliable, especially if used incorrectly |
| Suitable for | Suitable for sporty driving, off-road | Suitable for daily driving, city traffic |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Typically more expensive |