When it comes to manual transmissions, there’s a certain breed of car enthusiast that will argue that nothing beats the feeling of rowing through the gears yourself. And while the automotive world seems to be shifting towards automatics and dual-clutches, there are still a handful of performance cars that offer a good old-fashioned manual gearbox.
Today, we’re pitting three of the best manual sports cars against each other to see which one comes out on top. In the red corner, we have the BMW M2, a compact coupe that has been hailed as a true driver’s car. Its 6-speed manual gearbox promises precise and engaging shifts, and with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 405 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, it’s certainly no slouch.
In the blue corner, we have the Honda Civic Type R, a hot hatch that has been causing quite a stir in the performance car scene. Its 6-speed manual transmission is lauded for its short and crisp shifts, and with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine churning out 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, it’s a force to be reckoned with.
And last but not least, in the white corner, we have the Mazda MX-5, a lightweight convertible that embodies the purest form of driving pleasure. Its 6-speed manual gearbox is renowned for its slick and mechanical feel, and with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine delivering 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, it’s all about balance and finesse.
So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. The BMW M2 is undoubtedly the most powerful of the three, with a menacing growl and potent acceleration that can make your heart race. It’s a true enthusiast’s car, but it comes with a hefty price tag that may put off some buyers.
On the other hand, the Honda Civic Type R is a more affordable option that still offers blistering performance and razor-sharp handling. Its aggressive styling and track-ready credentials make it a favorite among boy racers and track day enthusiasts.
And then we have the Mazda MX-5, the lightweight underdog that punches well above its weight. Its nimble and agile chassis, combined with its rev-happy engine and precise gearbox, make it a joy to drive on twisty country roads. It may not have the brute force of the M2 or the Type R, but it more than makes up for it with its playful and engaging nature.
In the end, it’s a tough call to pick a winner. Each car has its own unique charm and appeal, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you value raw power, everyday usability, or pure driving pleasure, there’s a manual sports car out there for you. So go ahead, take your pick and enjoy the thrill of rowing through the gears yourself. It’s a dying art, but one that’s worth preserving.