By just looking at the two vehicles one cannot immediately tell which one is an automatic or manually driven vehicle until one enters the vehicles. There are differences between the two in terms of how to operate them and the license type that is issued after the test.
MANUAL VEHICLE
Manual simply mean that you as a driver have to physically change the gears of the vehicle in order to move fast or slow. The clutch pedal on the left and gear lever has to continuously be used. The gears cannot be selected without pressing the clutch pedal completely and once the vehicle start moving, the gear ratio must correspond with the speed at which you are travelling and this you must be properly taught by going to a credible driving school.
Advantages of driving a manual vehicle
- The license allows you to also drive an auto vehicle
- It is cheap to buy
- Good fuel efficiency
- Less maintenance required
- Driver has more control over the vehicle’s performance
Disadvantages of a manual vehicle
- It is difficult to drive in heavy traffic
- Wear of clutch and gearbox are quicker if badly operated due to bad driving
- More skills are required to drive it.
AUTOMATIC OPERATING VEHICLE
Beside the difference in gear lever types, an automatic vehicle doesn’t have a clutch pedal making it the easiest vehicle to drive. This vehicle doesn’t need your interference when it comes to changing of gears as it does it for you. Your task is simply to select the direction of movement either reverse (R) when you want to go backward or (D) if you want to go forward and then press the accelerator pedal to start moving. Before leaving the vehicle put the gear lever on (P) to park your vehicle and apply the hand brake. The accelerator pedal is much more sensitive and most people have caused unnecessary accidents/crashes hence gently pressing it is so important.
Advantages of driving an automatic vehicle
- It is easy to learn to drive
- It is fun to drive in heavy traffic
- Gear changing is easy as it is done automatically
- No wear of clutch
Disadvantages of an automatic vehicles
- You cannot drive a manual vehicle with an auto license
- It is expensive to buy
- It is lesser fuel efficient
- Maintenance cost is high
- It can disable your left foot from operating a clutch pedal
Even though most car manufacturers are slowly moving to automatic vehicles, it is very important to do a manual license test as it will allow you to drive both vehicle. You will receive a traffic fine, should the traffic officers find you driving a manual vehicle with an auto license.
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