3speed manual vs automatic

Discussion in 'Technical' started by David74maverick, Apr 11, 2005.

  1. David74maverick

    David74maverick Member

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    I currently have to c4 automatic in my car. I've been looking for a 4speed but can't seem to find one for a good price so just out of curiosity how would you guys rate the 3 speed manual as a performance trany as opposed to the automatic? thanks
     
    David74maverick, Apr 11, 2005
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  2. just1993

    just1993 Mike

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    For performance I don't think it is a good choise. You can't run a good gear in the rear. Maybe you want to try a T-5 out of a newer Mustang. They can be had for few hundred. Just my opinion:2cents:
     
    just1993, Apr 11, 2005
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  3. Acornridgeman

    Acornridgeman MCCI Wisconsin State Rep Moderator Supporting Member

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    Yes, definitely use the T5 for a bunch of reasons. They are easy to find, they won't cost a ton, they fit these cars very well, the swap is extremely well documented on this site and other Maverick sites as well, having an OD 5th gear will allow you to put lower gears in the rear without sacrificing highway RPM's / mileage. And the list goes on I'm sure.

    Watch what donor car you get one from, as they came in 4-6-8 cylinder models that can handle different HP and torque ranges. You want one from a V8 if you plan on running a built motor.
     
    Acornridgeman, Apr 11, 2005
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  4. lbr

    lbr Member

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    The gear ratios in a 3 spd manual suck! If your choice is limited to a 3 spd manual or a C-4, invest in the C-4. The guys are right about the 5spd, make sure you use the correct flywheel for your engine.
    Rocky
     
    Last edited: Apr 12, 2005
    lbr, Apr 12, 2005
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  5. Mavaholic

    Mavaholic Growing older but not up!

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    I would recomend a T5 also but to answer your question, the manual 3 speed transmission is a tough unit and can take alot of abuse.
    As far as gear ratios, they are better than the automatics. They are higher ratios. I would never put an automatic in a car I intended to have fun with. They are boring. JMO. I would convert over to 3 speed if thats all you can find. Then one day you'll find a toploader or T5 to put in and all the hard work will already be done.
     
    Mavaholic, Apr 12, 2005
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  6. lbr

    lbr Member

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    Gear ratios for 3 spd manual are 2.79 1st, 1.70 2nd, 1.00 3rd www.blueovalnews.com and the C-4 is 2.46,1.46,1.00 www.race-track.com. The proper torque converter makes the automatic a better choice over a 3 spd manual for a performance application. You will have quite an RPM drop at gear changes with a manual trans. The automatic has the benefit of the torque converter to help with torque multiplication when you make a gear change. BTW I run a 4 spd and love it! I'm just trying to answer your original question.
    Rocky
     
    Last edited: Apr 12, 2005
    lbr, Apr 12, 2005
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