Older guy with manual

[Paul's stable]

I want to order a 2024 with manual, as I know it will be more fun to drive. But, I am 73 and wondering if a manual might become tiresome for me after a while. I will not track drive it at all - just around town to restaurants, stores, etc. Any of you older guys with a manual have an opinion?

I'm a older driver and I went with the Tremec 6spd in my Dark Horse and the clutch feel is great. Plus young kids can't steal it they don't know stick lol.

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[larietrope]

I'm older than you. I gave up my 2010 Shelby 6 speed for a 2024 GT automatic. You'll get all sorts of answers. I've never regretted the decision. Easier to drive, very responsive, never having to throw it out of gear, etc. but you're the one driving it.

 

[bimmerborn]

I am old too. And I'm not giving up manual.

 

[Cujo221]

I had a 22 Challenger AUTO. Traded it for a 24 GT Premium 6 speed because it wasn't fun. I'm rocking 77. Go for it, as long as your sciatic nerve doesn't hurt. LOL

 

[kinelisch]

I've owned two S650s: one with a 10-speed automatic transmission and the one I currently have, which has a 6-speed manual. I'm old as well, so while I may not be as old as you, I find that I enjoy the manual transmission more each day. The experience of driving a V8 manual in today's era of electrification is amazing. I would recommend going for it, especially if you don’t have to deal with heavy traffic and frequent stop-and-go situations.

 

[JimC]

With a bad left knee I didn't even consider going with a manual this time.

When I did Mustang Unleashed, the instructor showed me just how much you can get out of the automatic on the road course using the paddle shifters - no reason to get the manual for me with that option.

 

[REV745DH24]

Hey, who you calling "older?" LOL

If you don't do a ton of driving I don't think you'll have any issue with it. It's a very easy clutch and shits smoothly. Unless you dive 1,000 miles a week up and down mountains I think you'll enjoy it.

 

[REV745DH24]

“Shits smoothly” ??? Lol! I bet!

 

[Coosawjack]

I'm rocking 77. Go for it, as long as your sciatic nerve doesn't hurt. LOL

I'm right there with ya Cujo221.....ROCK ON!!

 

[DevilDog]

“Shits smoothly” ??? Lol! I bet!

At my age, that's one of my daily aspirations.

 

[young at heart]

It by no means is just a question of age. You could be 85 in great shape or a wreck at 50. You need to do an honest self-assessment of your condition, both physical and mental. Physical is obvious; mental maybe not so much. You need to be clear headed and about yourself to be good and safe with a manual. Shifting needs to be pretty much rote, without having to think about it. No substitute for a lifetime of driving manuals. Just be honest with yourself about your abilities.

I‘d also think about a few years down the road as well. I’m going through a little of that right now myself. I’m old too.

FWIW the stock clutch is as light, smooth and linear as any car I’ve ever driven. IMO you’d only muck it up adding aftermarket springs or whatever. There’s no need.

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