While manual transmissions are loved by driving purists for the control and engagement they offer, there are some cars where the automatic transmission provides a much better overall driving experience. Whether it’s because of the car’s design, the complexity of its engine, or the advancements in transmission technology, these models shine brighter in automatic form. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the car models that are arguably way better with an automatic transmission than they are with a manual.

1. Porsche 911 (991) and Later Models

• Why Automatics Are Better: The Porsche 911 is one of the most revered sports cars in the world, and it’s available with both manual and automatic (specifically, PDK – Porsche Doppelkupplung, or dual-clutch transmission) options. While the manual version is fun to drive, the automatic in these modern 911 models, particularly the PDK, outshines the manual in every aspect. The PDK transmission is lightning-fast, offering seamless gear shifts that make the car quicker and more responsive on the track and on the road.
• Performance: The Porsche PDK transmission provides faster acceleration times, smoother shifts, and better control in high-performance scenarios. It also allows drivers to focus more on steering and braking, as they don’t have to worry about shifting during intense cornering.
• Conclusion: For the 991 generation and beyond, the Porsche 911’s PDK is undeniably superior to the manual, offering a better combination of performance, convenience, and driving pleasure.

2. Chevrolet Corvette (C7 and C8)

• Why Automatics Are Better: The Chevrolet Corvette has always been about raw performance and power, and with the C7 and C8 generations, Chevy has taken performance to the next level with their dual-clutch automatic transmissions. The newer Corvette models, particularly the C8, come exclusively with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, which allows for rapid gear shifts and the ability to handle the monstrous power output with ease.
• Performance: The Corvette’s automatic transmission makes the car quicker off the line, with faster shift times than even the most skilled manual drivers can achieve. With the C8, particularly the mid-engine design, the automatic transmission is perfectly suited to manage the car’s performance, especially during high-speed runs and on-track driving.
• Conclusion: While the manual transmission still offers a pure driving experience, the automatic in the C7 and C8 Corvettes maximizes performance, making it the ideal choice for enthusiasts who crave speed and precision.

3. Tesla Model S

• Why Automatics Are Better: The Tesla Model S, like all electric vehicles, comes with a single-speed transmission, but it’s essentially an automatic system in every sense of the word. Tesla has revolutionized the driving experience by offering incredibly fast acceleration and smooth power delivery without the need for gear shifts. The lack of a manual transmission makes sense in an EV, where efficiency and performance are paramount.
• Performance: With its instant torque delivery, the Tesla Model S is a powerhouse, offering acceleration that rivals even the best supercars. The automatic nature of the system means drivers can enjoy effortless power delivery without the need to worry about shifting gears.
• Conclusion: The Tesla Model S is best experienced in its automatic, single-speed form, as it maximizes the car’s electric motor capabilities while providing a seamless driving experience.

4. BMW M5 (F10 and F90)

• Why Automatics Are Better: BMW’s M5 has always been a high-performance sedan, and with the F10 and F90 generations, the transition to an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission makes a world of difference. While the manual M5 from earlier generations was beloved, the automatic M5 is not only faster but also more refined, making it a more compelling choice for most drivers.
• Performance: The automatic transmission in the F10 and F90 M5 offers faster acceleration, sharper gear shifts, and improved fuel efficiency. With the massive power from the twin-turbocharged engines, the automatic is able to handle the M5’s performance without any hesitation. The manual, on the other hand, would require more effort to extract the same level of performance.
• Conclusion: The F10 and F90 BMW M5 are superior with an automatic transmission, offering better performance and overall driving refinement.

5. Lexus LC 500

• Why Automatics Are Better: The Lexus LC 500 is a luxury sports coupe with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces an impressive amount of power. While the manual would offer a more engaging experience, the 10-speed automatic in the LC 500 is expertly tuned to deliver smooth, refined shifts while maximizing the V8’s power and efficiency. It’s a car designed for those who appreciate high-speed performance in a luxurious, comfortable setting.
• Performance: The 10-speed automatic transmission in the LC 500 is incredibly responsive, allowing the car to accelerate smoothly and efficiently. The automatic shifts faster and more seamlessly, which is especially beneficial when driving at high speeds.
• Conclusion: The LC 500 is built for cruising and high-performance driving, making the automatic transmission the better choice for both comfort and precision.

6. Audi RS7

• Why Automatics Are Better: The Audi RS7 is a high-performance sports sedan with a twin-turbocharged V8 engine and Quattro all-wheel-drive. It’s a car that demands serious performance, and the 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is ideally suited to manage the power output and provide quick gear shifts. While a manual transmission could still technically be fun in this car, it wouldn’t come close to delivering the same level of smoothness and speed as the automatic.
• Performance: With its twin-turbo V8 engine, the RS7’s automatic transmission ensures seamless shifts and excellent power delivery, making the car incredibly fast off the line and through tight corners. The manual transmission would struggle to keep up with the car’s performance potential.
• Conclusion: The RS7 is best in automatic form, where the advanced transmission can manage the engine’s power more effectively and provide a more dynamic driving experience.

7. McLaren 720S

• Why Automatics Are Better: McLaren’s 720S is a hypercar that delivers extreme levels of performance, and it’s equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that is perfectly suited to the car’s capabilities. The automatic transmission in the 720S ensures the car shifts seamlessly at incredible speeds, allowing the driver to focus on driving rather than shifting gears.
• Performance: The dual-clutch transmission in the McLaren 720S offers lightning-fast gear shifts, which is essential when harnessing the car’s 710 horsepower. The manual transmission simply can’t keep up with the speed and precision of the dual-clutch system.
• Conclusion: The McLaren 720S is a car that thrives with an automatic transmission, ensuring maximum performance and a smoother driving experience.

8. Jaguar F-Type

• Why Automatics Are Better: The Jaguar F-Type is a stylish, high-performance coupe with a range of engine options, including a supercharged V6 and V8. The 8-speed automatic transmission is a far better match for this car’s performance than a manual, offering fast gear shifts and a more refined driving experience.
• Performance: The automatic transmission in the F-Type ensures that the car can deliver all its power without hesitation, while also providing smoother shifts for a more refined drive. The manual version, although fun, simply can’t match the automatic for performance or smoothness in everyday driving.
• Conclusion: For both performance and refinement, the Jaguar F-Type is better suited to an automatic transmission, delivering the best driving experience possible.

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Final Thoughts: When Automatics Outshine Manuals

While manual transmissions continue to have a dedicated fanbase, there are several cars that perform better, feel smoother, and offer a more refined experience when equipped with an automatic transmission. Whether it’s the lightning-fast shifts in dual-clutch systems or the sheer power handling capabilities in performance vehicles, automatic transmissions are the perfect match for certain high-performance cars. For those looking for speed, precision, and ease of driving, these automatic options are the way to go.