I don't know, but if you are considering a manual, definitely test drive it. My previous little car was fine, I'd had it for ages, but pressing in the clutch starting annoying me, my knee was clunky. Turns out my knee was all worn out inside, so I got an automatic car. If you've got a few miles on the clock, make sure your knees aren't worn out before getting a manual, regardless of the mechanical reasons for one over the other.
In today's market, I think choosing one over the other is just narrowing your choices. As long as it's a sound vehicle and the drivetrain suits it's weight etc then it shouldn't matter. If in doubt arrange a more intensive mechanical inspection.
My understanding, most of the older automatics are automated manuals and these on high Km units can have problems ie electric gear and pumps do the gear change and wear out over time.
Some of the older autos where only 3 or 4 speed . Latter model
Multi speed autos are fine, even change down when brakes are applied for engine breaking . Hydraulic operation clutches don't need too effort either !! I a truck like vehicle? Your pushing down on clutch which should be easier ?
Our motorhome, the one in my avatar, is an auto. Now, I know nothing about motors etc. don't have a mechanical bone in my body but I do know that I can drive the motorhome if I need too. (have done some of the driving even though my husband prefers to drive). Can you both drive if the need arises? Something to think about. Cheers.
Early model motorhomes and campervan were predominantly manual for the simple reason the earlier truck based chassis and vans were only available in manual transmission.
Around 90% of the later models (2010 onwards) are either automated manual or full automatic.
It is very rare for us to sell a manual RV these days as there is very little demand for manuals.
Early model motorhomes and campervan were predominantly manual for the simple reason the earlier truck based chassis and vans were only available in manual transmission. Around 90% of the later models (2010 onwards) are either automated manual or full automatic. It is very rare for us to sell a manual RV these days as there is very little demand for manuals.
Ah, that makes sense Montie.
I thought maybe that there was a reason that some people preferred Manuals.
Plus from around 2000 5 or 6 speed autos where fitted . Before ? Theres was mainly 3 or 4 speed autos that where strong enough ! Fuel economy and EPA made it happen . Plus the massive torque from
Modern single rail, turbo engines!! Also part of the SUV type vehicle . Strange though whatever you drive ? After a while you dont even think about it ! Just drive !!
Montie has probably nailed the question, when he answered that the early model campervans were based on a commercial vehicle, which had a manual gearbox.
My campervan, in my Avatar, is a 2006 Fiat Ducato with a 5 speed manual gearbox
I normally do long road trips, and find that when I reach top gear, it stays there most of the time
I obviously change gears as required, in the hills and built up areas
The Fiat Ducato model after mine, from 2007 up to about 2018, has a 6 speed manual/auto gearbox
Unfortunately, if you wish to spend some time on some Fiat Ducato websites, you will read that this 6 speed manual/auto gearbox, have some expensive problems
It is a normal manual gearbox, without a clutch pedal, which relies on internal components to change gears
The manual/auto gearbox on the Fiat Ducato, also have no park gear, like you find on a normal auto gearbox
