autoinsane

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There’s really a disappointing trend going on in the car industry if you’re a car but, the death of the manual transmission. It’s not just the “average” car that can’t come with the ability to row your own, but some high powered beasts that only mount power through a slushbox.

One example of this is the Taurus SHO. While it’s probably because people are just too darn lazy these days it has to be the biggest drawback to the car when comparing it with its European Rivals. Although the BMW’s and Audi counterparts don’t have as much power or cost many thousands more they all offer manuals. It isn’t just cars that don’t get the third pedal, no American truck manufacturer offers a manual in a full-size pickup truck.

We know what you’re thinking, but DSG, SMG, PDK, Cambio Corsa! Bah humbug! This just doesn’t work for us. The only thing more unnatural to us than not shifting on our own is shifting without a clutch. What’s the point?

So when they are working on the next 13 speed robot transmission maybe they can give us at least the option of a 6-speed? Even if we have to special order that archaic rockbox, it’s just that much more fun.

What other lacking options on the spec sheet really grinds your gears this year? Leave a comment and maybe Santa will be good to us all in 2010!

Santa Clause with sleigh photo credit: weaselmcfee [flickr]

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