The general rule for deciding between AT and MT: if you have to ask, you don't really want a MT. Get the AT. But I have to say, you will be missing one of the best parts on the 8 if you go with AT.

 

I have an AT RX8 and have only had it for a month. I am currently looking for a good deal on a MT and I am going to switch as soon as I find one. If you're looking for a sports car that looks fast and has the power to prove it then you should get the MT. The MT has more power and way better acceleration than the AT. If it is ONLY looks and great handling you're looking for then you should get a AT. You won't be winning any races with the AT. Both the MT and AT have great attributes and are fun to drive. You should also note that RX8's have horrible gas mileage, you have to check the engine oil after every 2 gas fill-ups, they must be warmed up for 2 minutes after they sit for 2 or more hours (depending on the climate), and don't drive in icy or snowy conditions with summer tires (very important). Don't meanto scare you away, but you should know this if you buy an 8. Some dealers may fail to mention this.

 

unfortunately for some ppl, the RX-8 just doesn't have enough power to satisfy them, even if it's the most bad-*** looking sports car for under 40k, and it's hard to argue with that.

I should point out that if you want a car you can drag race then the 8 isn't for you, it's not a super powerful car, but it can still kick a 500 hp car in the *** on the bends if you know how to drive it (since most cars around 500 hp that cost less than $100k can't handle well)

I'd suggest you look at mitsubishi Evos and subaru STI imprezas, more power for around the same price and still able to carry 4 ppl. the Infiniti G35 is more powerful with 4 seats, the 350Z has more drag muscle but only 2 seats and the honda S2000 is a bit more powerful with 2 seats and better fuel economy. And if you want to spend a bit more you can get the only car that equals the 8's looks... a lotus elise.

the 8 is a statement more than it's just a sports car: dare to be different and look good doing it. (dare to burn fuel too)

 

A six speed AT is the best compromise for you since traffic is a problem. I really hope there's a DSG or SMG kind of tranny for the 8.

 

SMG trannies suck, you might as well stick with automatic

 

I hope you're joking.

There is virtually no performance loss between SMG and MT. I guess those people @Ferrari and BMW are all idiots.

 

True, if you drive in a lot of traffic, an MT will annoy until driving it becomes almost completely second nature (which obviously takes a while).

 

Yeah, but it will become second nature much more quickly if you drive in a lot of traffic.

Actually, even to the second-nature level clutch driver, MT can annoy in lengthy stop-and-go traffic, as your clutch foot can get tired. But most manual drivers consider it a small price to pay for the joys of stick.

 

You're kidding right? A lot of the engine replacements have been with the AUTO 8s because people don't drive them hard enough and they get carbon buildup.



Also, both transmissions are now the same price with 2006s for the US.

 

I wasn't talking about the engine (which in your example is simply a case of owner ignorance, and not something wrong with the car itself), I was talking about the transmission specifically. I rarely see posts mentioning problems with the automatic transmission. OTOH I see new problems with the manual transmission crop up just about every single week. Grinding, not being able to shift into such and such gear, not being able to shift into reverse...it goes on and on.

 

Guys, please focus on the first thread, he's leaning towards an AT coz he mentioned traffic so the six speed would be the best compromise, please don't start another AT bashing thread. Apart from less feel for the driver, I don't see why SMG type tranny suck, there's no torque converter so no loss like an auto plus you get pure clutch engagement gripping feel. Unless you can convince me you can shift faster than the damn thing, don't bash it. I personally still prefer MT but that's just me.

 

I went and drove my friends 2001 integra R and it was difficult at first. I didnt like the yerking but i guess is bcuz am not as experienced. Am going to have to test drive both model AT and MT next week. Thats when i be able to find out which i will go with.

 

Let me save you some trouble. Quite a few people on here have bought auto's and later traded them in, or at least wanted to. Just get the 6sp, and learn how to drive stick better. You can thank me later.

 

I'm getting an MT and I'm not that good with a stick. I can do it but not as well as I would like to that I feel really comfortable doing it. I figure I will just adapt when I get it when I get used to driving stick regularly since I don't right now. No big deal, really.

 

Within two weeks, you'll start to feel comfortable with driving stick. By a year, it will be completely comfortable.

I strongly recommend you get the manual. Not because of this or that about the car, but because really learning to drive stick is a treat you give yourself for the rest of your life.

 

learning stick is easy, a week tops and you'll be a pro... the real issue is the fun factor. stick is just more fun than auto to drive... dont let the prospect of learning stick scare you

i dont think the acceleration gap matter that much... auto is pretty slow, but so is the 6mt. its not like if you get the 6mt and you can suddenly be faster than the likes of 350z and evo etc. I personally prefer stick shift, but thats just me because its fun to me.

if you like to just chill when you drive then auto is the way to go. its a matter of your personality. you should listen to your self instead of others, just test drive them

 

I have an auto. TRUST ME, GET A MANUAL.

 

Realize that all the responses here are personal opinions based upon personal preferences. Only you can decide what you want. I almost bought the AT because of knee problems, but then decided to risk it and get the MT. Glad I did. Many others have traded in ATs for MTs, but get what YOU want.