As I get older I like the automatics. Especially for around town driving. To
better answer the question regarding upgrades one needs to know what your
upgrade plans include. The manual is going to have the efficiency and tune
ability edge as you can change gear ratios. Increased torque will be a
problem for both. The non-locking torque converter on the automatic can be a
huge limiting factor.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
JRodgers
Sent: Friday, May 25, 2012 8:48 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Automatic vs Manual

I have three vans - one automatic, and two manual tranny models. The
automatic I have never driven. It is a 1991 Carat and a project van.
Basically sound, but needs some work - needs a few things like rear bumper,
new disc calipers, pads and rotors, some electrical work-right hand
passenger door electrical is fouled, front blower is bad, AC operational,
but no refrigerant.  Even so - this van is sweet. All electric doors and
windows, body and paint good, built-in fold out table, factory jump seats,
etc. Engine is very good, recent fuel injection work over.  But tranny is
really iffy. But as I said - I have never driven it.

I have the two manual tranny vans - both '88 GL's and in relatively good
shape.  I am considering letting one of these three go.

I am strongly inclined to sell one '88 GL and finish the restoration on the
Carat. A key point for me in this decision is going to revolve around the
manual vs the automatic transmission.  Somewhere down the road I might like
to do an upgrade to a later engine and also do something special with the
tranny.

So - I defer to the List for it's wisdom regarding manual vs automatics.
Which would be the better choice in the long haul just based on the
performance of the transmissions.

Thanks,

John in Birmingham, AL