Question on trade back my auto Z to a manual

Lug · 05-13-2010, 11:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffblue

the idea is, you can shift quickly enough to not have your hand off the wheel for any significant amount of time. Unlike the automatic, you get to stay in one gear for as long as you need, as opposed to the car deciding you should shift..... like: NOW... ok NOW again... ok i think you might be on a hill, let me downshift for you... oh wait, that hill was shorter than i thought... i'll go back to the higher gear." - Your transmission

you should watch some videos of actual race car drivers driving their cars. you'll see that its only a split second of removing their hand from the wheel.

nothing wrong with people wanting one transmission over the other, its all opinion. however, some of these anti manual transmission arguments are pretty ridiculous, and make it quite evident that the person has NO idea whats at play in a manual transmission, so they clearly could not have made an informed decision about which one they purchased. (this is not a dig at those who drive automatics, just those who have these absurd reasons for why they think manuals are more dangerous, slow, stupid, pointless, etc)

I think you need to read up on how the manual mode tiptronics actually works. The transmission stays in whatever gear you put it in unless you get ouside the operational limits of the tranny.

Jeffblue · 05-13-2010, 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lug

I think you need to read up on how the manual mode tiptronics actually works. The transmission stays in whatever gear you put it in unless you get ouside the operational limits of the tranny.

I know, that was from two separate posts. One of which i mentioned that i dont like tiptronics. The other i was talking about how automatic transmissions gear hunt, obviously not when they are in manual mode. But to me i dont understand why someone would get an automatic, to constantly use the tiptronics, if someone is so anti changing gears in a manual tranissmission, but changes their gears all the time with paddle shifters, i think that just says that they don't know how to use the clutch.

Zsteve · 05-13-2010, 11:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffblue

I know, that was from two separate posts. One of which i mentioned that i dont like tiptronics. The other i was talking about how automatic transmissions gear hunt, obviously not when they are in manual mode. But to me i dont understand why someone would get an automatic, to constantly use the tiptronics, if someone is so anti changing gears in a manual tranissmission, but changes their gears all the time with paddle shifters, i think that just says that they don't know how to use the clutch.

I would say its all a matter of choice but most dont always use the paddles. I go auto untill I want to do some spirited passing, then I go manual. Now I wish they would have a sport mode auto too which would shift more aggressively than regular auto. And I can tell you I have had plenty of manuals and can use a clutch but I like not having to and getting way faster shifts. I would also like to see the DSG in the Z, they shift like lightning.

Lug · 05-13-2010, 11:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffblue

I know, that was from two separate posts. One of which i mentioned that i dont like tiptronics. The other i was talking about how automatic transmissions gear hunt, obviously not when they are in manual mode. But to me i dont understand why someone would get an automatic, to constantly use the tiptronics, if someone is so anti changing gears in a manual tranissmission, but changes their gears all the time with paddle shifters, i think that just says that they don't know how to use the clutch.

You're making the assumption that people who buy the auto are anti changing gears all the time or vice-versa. The point of the auto with tip is that you have one extra choice. Early Tiptronics did tend to suck but the new one in the 370z may be the best one ever made. Certainly one of the few that can match a manual for speed. "Feel" was hardly ever mentioned when Autos were always slower, it was always about the time back then. As auto's got as good or better in accel times, that "focus" seems to have changed. For me, the number one reason to buy a manula is less for "feel" and more for upgradeability. It's a whole lot easier to buoild a manual tranny for big extra hp numbers than an auto.

Jeffblue · 05-13-2010, 10:24 AM

good points blade.

In terms of if you should sell the car. if you KNOW for sure you want to sell it, then just go for it right now. your car is still at a high rate of depreciation. so you have a choice, either cut your losses and lose some money and get what you want now, or have essentially wasted your money on a car you aren't enjoying. no tiptronic is going to fill the void for your if what you want is to shift the gears yourself.

You only live once. many people probably used that as justification to get the Z in the first place, its not a practical car, its not cheap either. The SMART thing to do would be keep your car, and suck it up. But, you bought a sports car, for FUN. if you aren't having fun then you are wasting your money. if it costs you some more money to get what you want then go for it. if you want to just save money and not be happy, sell your Z, get something practical. but life is not all about being smart and practical.

Sorry for the rant, but just to clarify, you are 'wasting' money in many peoples eyes just owning this type of car. might as well waste a little more to have it be what you want.

Hi-Step'n370Z · 05-13-2010, 02:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffblue

good points blade.

In terms of if you should sell the car. if you KNOW for sure you want to sell it, then just go for it right now. your car is still at a high rate of depreciation. so you have a choice, either cut your losses and lose some money and get what you want now, or have essentially wasted your money on a car you aren't enjoying. no tiptronic is going to fill the void for your if what you want is to shift the gears yourself.

You only live once. many people probably used that as justification to get the Z in the first place, its not a practical car, its not cheap either. The SMART thing to do would be keep your car, and suck it up. But, you bought a sports car, for FUN. if you aren't having fun then you are wasting your money. if it costs you some more money to get what you want then go for it. if you want to just save money and not be happy, sell your Z, get something practical. but life is not all about being smart and practical.

Sorry for the rant, but just to clarify, you are 'wasting' money in many peoples eyes just owning this type of car. might as well waste a little more to have it be what you want.

This is really good, intelligent advice. Really sum's the whole thing up.

BUT!

Let me add a quick comment, there will be holes in it, but read it for what it's meant to say.

Before you make any move, drive a stick for a while, preferably a 370Z, like at least a full day of different driving experiences. You may find that the experience is not what you thought it would be.

If you make the trade, it's gonna cost you, so why not spend a few bucks up front and try to rent a stick Z for a day and see how you really feel about the whole thing. It doesn't have to be a 2010, an 09 or even a 350Z would be good enough. Then you could drive it under varied conditions and at least get a fairly good idea of how you really feel about the tranni.

I have the 7 speed AT and I love it. It's my first auto, always stick before, and I don't miss the stick at all. You can shift her over to manual and shift using the tach with a simple, quick snap forward on the stick, so you do have control over how you want your Z to perform at a given time.

And, this car is SO QUICK AND SO FAST that unless you're really used to handling a car like the Z, you would be well advised to be able to put both hands on the wheel, should things get a little hairy, as quickly as possible.

I am NOT advocating speeding, reckless/unsafe driving! But, even the safest driver can find themselves in positions on the road that call for quick thinking, and the ability to do what's needed to avoid trouble.

For example, you're shooting up an on-ramp, and you get to 3rd gear, and you find that you suddenly need to concentrate on merging over between a bunch of cars. With the AT, you just flick the stick back to auto, put both hands on the wheel and take it from there, not having to worry about engine brake or having the engine revving like crazy until you're settled into the lane. That could take what should have been a safe and normal driving maneuver, and turn it into possibly a dangerous one.

Again, if you're really good behind the wheel, (experienced) great, but if you're not, then you could get into trouble with a car like the Z in a flash.

The paddles are good for those twisty turny "mountain roads" drives when keeping both hands on the wheel is a very good idea, and the manual mode is great for just having fun on the mostly straight drives.

So, right now you have the best of both worlds with the Z you already have.

But, I do understand how some just love the stick, and that's great too, just be sure you know absolutely which one you really want to have before you make a move.

I hope you're not letting someone else's opinion sway you, make sure you do what YOU want. don't feel bad about your Z because someone said that an Auto tranni is whimpy. You're paying for the car, not them.

Let us know what you decide.
.
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Jonathan Vach · 05-14-2010, 01:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hi-Step'n370Z

This is really good, intelligent advice. Really sum's the whole thing up.

BUT!

Let me add a quick comment, there will be holes in it, but read it for what it's meant to say.

Before you make any move, drive a stick for a while, preferably a 370Z, like at least a full day of different driving experiences. You may find that the experience is not what you thought it would be.

If you make the trade, it's gonna cost you, so why not spend a few bucks up front and try to rent a stick Z for a day and see how you really feel about the whole thing. It doesn't have to be a 2010, an 09 or even a 350Z would be good enough. Then you could drive it under varied conditions and at least get a fairly good idea of how you really feel about the tranni.

I have the 7 speed AT and I love it. It's my first auto, always stick before, and I don't miss the stick at all. You can shift her over to manual and shift using the tach with a simple, quick snap forward on the stick, so you do have control over how you want your Z to perform at a given time.

And, this car is SO QUICK AND SO FAST that unless you're really used to handling a car like the Z, you would be well advised to be able to put both hands on the wheel, should things get a little hairy, as quickly as possible.

I am NOT advocating speeding, reckless/unsafe driving! But, even the safest driver can find themselves in positions on the road that call for quick thinking, and the ability to do what's needed to avoid trouble.

For example, you're shooting up an on-ramp, and you get to 3rd gear, and you find that you suddenly need to concentrate on merging over between a bunch of cars. With the AT, you just flick the stick back to auto, put both hands on the wheel and take it from there, not having to worry about engine brake or having the engine revving like crazy until you're settled into the lane. That could take what should have been a safe and normal driving maneuver, and turn it into possibly a dangerous one.

Again, if you're really good behind the wheel, (experienced) great, but if you're not, then you could get into trouble with a car like the Z in a flash.

The paddles are good for those twisty turny "mountain roads" drives when keeping both hands on the wheel is a very good idea, and the manual mode is great for just having fun on the mostly straight drives.

So, right now you have the best of both worlds with the Z you already have.

But, I do understand how some just love the stick, and that's great too, just be sure you know absolutely which one you really want to have before you make a move.

I hope you're not letting someone else's opinion sway you, make sure you do what YOU want. don't feel bad about your Z because someone said that an Auto tranni is whimpy. You're paying for the car, not them.

Let us know what you decide.
.
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thanks so much for ur help....i am going to meet one of my new friend who driveing a manual tomorrow...then i wil make my desicion!

gauchowr · 05-14-2010, 12:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffblue

good points blade.

In terms of if you should sell the car. if you KNOW for sure you want to sell it, then just go for it right now. your car is still at a high rate of depreciation. so you have a choice, either cut your losses and lose some money and get what you want now, or have essentially wasted your money on a car you aren't enjoying. no tiptronic is going to fill the void for your if what you want is to shift the gears yourself.

You only live once. many people probably used that as justification to get the Z in the first place, its not a practical car, its not cheap either. The SMART thing to do would be keep your car, and suck it up. But, you bought a sports car, for FUN. if you aren't having fun then you are wasting your money. if it costs you some more money to get what you want then go for it. if you want to just save money and not be happy, sell your Z, get something practical. but life is not all about being smart and practical.

Sorry for the rant, but just to clarify, you are 'wasting' money in many peoples eyes just owning this type of car. might as well waste a little more to have it be what you want.

good point there Jeff,

I traded in a 6 month old accord coupe and lost my 6k downpayment and 6 months worth of payments to be in the Z. I wasn't happy in the accord and would be on the370z.com every night looking at people's pics and browsing threads. I said eff it, you only live once! haha. Now when I leave work, I try to avoid leaving the same time as my partners and co workers because they are all about "practicality." I work for an accounting firm, and most people make sensible decisions which they would not think the Z is. This car is a waste in MOST peoples eyes, but do what you want. You only live once, so like Jeff said, if you're gonna do it then do it now. I have no regrets here.

Jeffblue · 05-14-2010, 10:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gauchowr

good point there Jeff,

I traded in a 6 month old accord coupe and lost my 6k downpayment and 6 months worth of payments to be in the Z. I wasn't happy in the accord and would be on the370z.com every night looking at people's pics and browsing threads. I said eff it, you only live once! haha. Now when I leave work, I try to avoid leaving the same time as my partners and co workers because they are all about "practicality." I work for an accounting firm, and most people make sensible decisions which they would not think the Z is. This car is a waste in MOST peoples eyes, but do what you want. You only live once, so like Jeff said, if you're gonna do it then do it now. I have no regrets here.

I did a smilar thing. selling my CVT altima coupe after just under 2 years for my Z. i had paid it off but still, it was basically a nice car, that cost me gas+insurance. but it was no fun to drive

Quote:

Originally Posted by 370zproject

says the one with the mt...

agreed i love how drivers in crap cars say u got a auto.. im like yea it has mt to.. and i could crush ya... <.< on the track...

My friend has an audi S8. i asked if he had an auto or manual, he said 'both'. i paused with a weird look on my face and he said 'its got tiptronics.' tip tronics are not a manual transmission. you are clicking a button and telling the ecu to change the gear. that is all. i'm not saying its not fun, i'm just saying it isn't a manual transmission.

everyone here talking about how the car doesn't gear hunt etc if its in MANUAL MODE. why would someone get an auto tranny just to drive it in manual mode all the time if they were able to drive stick?

When people with shitty cars criticize your car for being automatic, i think its perfectly legitimate. They are saying 'Damn! i wish i could get a really nice sports car like that, that must be so fun to drive, probably more fun than my piece of ****.... wait yo got an automatic, nvm thats probably not that fun.' all their saying is if theyh ad 30k+ to spend on a sports car, they'd have got it in a manual. obviously they dont have the money to spend, or they'd have the same car, in a manual.

kannibul · 05-14-2010, 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffblue

I did a smilar thing. selling my CVT altima coupe after just under 2 years for my Z. i had paid it off but still, it was basically a nice car, that cost me gas+insurance. but it was no fun to drive

My friend has an audi S8. i asked if he had an auto or manual, he said 'both'. i paused with a weird look on my face and he said 'its got tiptronics.' tip tronics are not a manual transmission. you are clicking a button and telling the ecu to change the gear. that is all. i'm not saying its not fun, i'm just saying it isn't a manual transmission.

everyone here talking about how the car doesn't gear hunt etc if its in MANUAL MODE. why would someone get an auto tranny just to drive it in manual mode all the time if they were able to drive stick?

When people with shitty cars criticize your car for being automatic, i think its perfectly legitimate. They are saying 'Damn! i wish i could get a really nice sports car like that, that must be so fun to drive, probably more fun than my piece of ****.... wait yo got an automatic, nvm thats probably not that fun.' all their saying is if theyh ad 30k+ to spend on a sports car, they'd have got it in a manual. obviously they dont have the money to spend, or they'd have the same car, in a manual.

Honestly, I couldn't care less what someone else thinks of what transmission I have. But, I will rub it in their face if they make a comment about it...after I smoke 'em.

mick · 05-13-2010, 10:45 AM

if you still love the 7AT then don't do it.

wishihadnav · 05-13-2010, 11:18 AM

yes you'll lose alot of money but stick is always much more fun to drive...besides traffic..haha

antman22 · 05-13-2010, 11:24 AM

ah...good old manual vs auto argument....

someone yesterday asked me if my Z had CVT. If it wasn't for the fact that it was a girl that asked me, it would have warranted a punch.

wishihadnav · 05-13-2010, 11:45 AM

well if auto was superior to manual why didnt they offer it in the Nismo model?..i would of bought it to cuz im lazy..haha..

Zsteve · 05-13-2010, 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wishihadnav

well if auto was superior to manual why didnt they offer it in the Nismo model?..i would of bought it to cuz im lazy..haha..

cuz NISMO is not superior.

Now its a anti auto anti nismo thread.

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05-13-2010, 10:24 AM	#5 (permalink)
Jeffblue A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: NY Age: 37 Posts: 9,192 Drives: Z32TT & 335xi Coupe Rep Power: 38	good points blade. In terms of if you should sell the car. if you KNOW for sure you want to sell it, then just go for it right now. your car is still at a high rate of depreciation. so you have a choice, either cut your losses and lose some money and get what you want now, or have essentially wasted your money on a car you aren't enjoying. no tiptronic is going to fill the void for your if what you want is to shift the gears yourself. You only live once. many people probably used that as justification to get the Z in the first place, its not a practical car, its not cheap either. The SMART thing to do would be keep your car, and suck it up. But, you bought a sports car, for FUN. if you aren't having fun then you are wasting your money. if it costs you some more money to get what you want then go for it. if you want to just save money and not be happy, sell your Z, get something practical. but life is not all about being smart and practical. Sorry for the rant, but just to clarify, you are 'wasting' money in many peoples eyes just owning this type of car. might as well waste a little more to have it be what you want.

05-13-2010, 10:45 AM	#11 (permalink)
mick Track Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: California Posts: 903 Drives: Used to drive a 370z Rep Power: 17	if you still love the 7AT then don't do it.

05-13-2010, 11:18 AM	#12 (permalink)
wishihadnav A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: 90090 Posts: 1,851 Drives: Force Fed Nismo Rep Power: 184	yes you'll lose alot of money but stick is always much more fun to drive...besides traffic..haha

05-13-2010, 11:24 AM	#13 (permalink)
antman22 Track Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Dallas TX Posts: 597 Drives: 09 PG 370z 7AT Rep Power: 17	ah...good old manual vs auto argument.... someone yesterday asked me if my Z had CVT. If it wasn't for the fact that it was a girl that asked me, it would have warranted a punch.

05-13-2010, 11:45 AM	#14 (permalink)
wishihadnav A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: 90090 Posts: 1,851 Drives: Force Fed Nismo Rep Power: 184	well if auto was superior to manual why didnt they offer it in the Nismo model?..i would of bought it to cuz im lazy..haha..