Auto vs. Manual

[Memphis]

I am thinking about getting another Ranger. I once had a '94 with 4cyl, 5spd. Great little truck, but had to sell it. This time I am looking at something from 99-03. I can't decide if I want a manual or auto. Which is better? I won't be doing any heavy hauling and at best I might someday pull a small fold down camper. I am looking for longevity and fuel economy. I could never seem to take off smooth with the '94 from a stop. Not sure if it was me, but I know my wife would be quickly annoyed with that! Scott

 

[armadillon]

Longevity and fuel economy? Manual. Far simpler. The A4LD auto is not known for reliability.

 

[brinker88]

99-03 doesnt have an A4LD. They have either a 4 or 5R55E or a 4R44E depending on the engine size.

 

[armadillon]

Dang it, I saw he had a 94 and immediately thought thats what he had. My bad.

Still, what I said is the truth on both counts, manual is better on fuel economy and the A4LD is poopoo

With manual it obviously will come down to how you drive it. Burning up a clutch and flooring it everywhere will not help with the longevity and mpg

 

[Memphis]

Yes, had a '94. Good truck. I didn't like filling up the transmission, on my back over my head. Do they still fill the same way? Still use auto trans fluid? No hot-footin' it for me! I usually take it very easy. I am looking for something that is useful (truck), good on gas, easy to maintain, and will hold up well.

 

[jhammel85]

I prefer a stick shift but if the right one came up, I'd get an auto.

If it was maintained properly or has relatively low miles that is.

 

[tx3nc]

From what I've heard from one source, you don't want an auto behind the 4 cylinder. Not enough torque. At least with the manual and 4 cylinder, you can control the shift point if you need more power or acceleration.

 

[cvar]

Manual shifting is a PITA, esp. for city driving. I'm getting old & cranky, and nowadays I prefer comfort & convenience. I'd never get another manual again; good riddance. My auto trans works great, no problems, even hauling 3000 lb trailer. Plenty of power, and never gotten stuck.

 

[fix_or_repair_daily]

Agreed on the 4 cylinder/auto transmission being a crappy combination. They get lousy fuel economy and have no power. A v6 with an auto will likely get nearly the same or even slightly better mpg.