As automatic transmissions continue to dominate the automotive landscape, manual transmissions are becoming an increasingly rare feature. For driving enthusiasts, however, the tactile engagement of a manual gearbox is irreplaceable. In 2024, a select group of automakers continues to offer manual transmissions, keeping the spirit of driving alive for purists. Here, we rank the best cars still available with a manual transmission, examining their performance, value, and the sheer joy they bring to the driving experience.

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The quintessential driver’s car, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, remains a beacon of manual transmission excellence. Its six-speed manual is precise, lightweight, and perfectly matched to the car’s nimble chassis.

•Why It’s Great: The Miata’s manual transmission enhances its engaging handling and lively 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Shifting gears manually amplifies the connection between driver and car, making every twist and turn of the road an absolute joy.

•Specs: 181 horsepower, rear-wheel drive, and a curb weight under 2,500 pounds.

•Price: Starting at around $29,000, the Miata is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy a true manual driving experience.

2. Honda Civic Type R

The 2024 Honda Civic Type R continues to set the benchmark for front-wheel-drive performance cars, and it proudly retains its six-speed manual transmission.

•Why It’s Great: The manual gearbox in the Type R features a short throw, excellent feedback, and a rev-matching system that ensures flawless downshifts. It pairs perfectly with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 315 horsepower and razor-sharp handling.

•Specs: 0-60 mph in just 5.0 seconds, and aggressive aerodynamics make it track-ready.

•Price: Starting at $44,000, it’s a premium choice for enthusiasts.

3. Toyota GR Corolla

Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) division made waves with the introduction of the GR Corolla. This hot hatch comes standard with a six-speed manual and all-wheel drive.

•Why It’s Great: The GR Corolla’s manual transmission provides a mechanical, direct feel that complements the 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. The result is a thrilling 300-horsepower package perfect for spirited driving.

•Specs: Standard all-wheel drive with selectable modes, allowing drivers to adjust power distribution.

•Price: Starting at $37,000, it’s a relatively accessible performance car.

4. Ford Mustang GT

For muscle car enthusiasts, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT continues to offer a manual transmission, cementing its status as a modern classic.

•Why It’s Great: The six-speed manual in the Mustang GT pairs beautifully with the 5.0-liter V8, delivering 480 horsepower. The visceral experience of shifting through the gears while hearing the growl of the V8 is unmatched.

•Specs: Available with optional performance packages, including the Mach 1 variant, which bumps performance and handling to near-track levels.

•Price: Starting at $43,000, the Mustang GT offers a lot of performance for the money, particularly for manual enthusiasts.

5. Subaru WRX

The 2024 Subaru WRX continues to uphold its rally-inspired heritage with an optional six-speed manual transmission, offering a direct connection to its turbocharged all-wheel-drive system.

•Why It’s Great: Subaru’s six-speed manual transmission enhances the WRX’s sporty driving dynamics, allowing enthusiasts to fully engage with its 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, which produces 271 horsepower. The manual variant also avoids the quirks of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) option, making it the preferred choice for purists.

•Specs: The WRX features Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for improved grip and handling in all conditions.

•Price: Starting at $31,000, it remains a competitive option in the performance sedan segment.

6. Porsche 911

Porsche’s legendary 911 remains one of the most refined sports cars on the market, and in 2024, a seven-speed manual transmission is still available for select trims, including the Carrera T and the GT3.

•Why It’s Great: The manual gearbox in the 911 is a marvel of engineering, delivering precise shifts and an unparalleled connection to the 911’s high-revving engines. The GT3 model, with its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, paired with a manual, is the pinnacle of analog driving pleasure.

•Specs: The 911 GT3 offers 502 horsepower and a top speed of 198 mph, while the Carrera T provides a more accessible entry into the manual 911 experience.

•Price: Starting at $118,000 for the Carrera T, the 911 is a luxury investment for driving purists.

7. BMW M2

The second-generation BMW M2 continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission, catering to enthusiasts who demand the ultimate driver’s car in a compact, high-performance package.

•Why It’s Great: With 453 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, the M2 delivers explosive acceleration and razor-sharp handling. The manual transmission adds to its appeal, providing a rewarding and tactile experience for drivers who crave engagement.

•Specs: Rear-wheel drive and advanced chassis tuning make the M2 one of the best driver’s cars in its class.

•Price: Starting at $63,000, the M2 is a premium offering for those who prioritize driving enjoyment.

8. Chevrolet Camaro SS

The Chevrolet Camaro SS, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, remains a contender in the muscle car segment, offering raw power and thrilling performance.

•Why It’s Great: The Camaro SS pairs its 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering 455 horsepower, with a manual gearbox that enhances the visceral muscle car experience. The shifts are smooth and mechanical, reminding drivers why manuals are irreplaceable for enthusiasts.

•Specs: Available performance upgrades include the 1LE package, which adds track-focused suspension and aerodynamic enhancements.

•Price: Starting at $43,000, the Camaro SS offers strong value for manual transmission fans.

9. Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ

The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ twins are budget-friendly sports cars that deliver exceptional driving dynamics with their standard six-speed manual transmissions.

•Why It’s Great: The GR86 and BRZ feature a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine that delivers 228 horsepower, but the lightweight chassis and engaging manual gearbox make every drive a joy. The gearshifts are smooth, and the clutch is forgiving, making them excellent options for both new and seasoned manual drivers.

•Specs: Rear-wheel drive and near-perfect weight distribution ensure balanced handling.

•Price: Starting at $29,000, these cars are affordable gateways to sports car ownership.

10. Nissan Z

The Nissan Z, introduced in 2023, continues to captivate enthusiasts in 2024 with its retro-inspired styling and six-speed manual transmission.

•Why It’s Great: The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine produces 400 horsepower, delivering exhilarating performance. The manual transmission is smooth and well-weighted, adding to the connection between car and driver. The Z captures the spirit of classic sports cars while offering modern performance, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge engineering.

•Specs: Rear-wheel drive and a robust chassis provide a thrilling yet composed driving experience.

•Price: Starting at $41,000, the Nissan Z delivers significant value for those seeking a modern manual-equipped sports car.

11. Hyundai Elantra N

The Hyundai Elantra N surprises many with its six-speed manual option, combining practicality with high-performance capabilities.

•Why It’s Great: The Elantra N’s manual transmission pairs beautifully with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 276 horsepower. The manual enhances the car’s raw and visceral driving experience, especially with features like rev-matching for seamless downshifts.

•Specs: Front-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and N-exclusive performance enhancements make it a track-ready sedan.

•Price: Starting at $32,000, it’s an affordable option for enthusiasts who need a practical yet exciting daily driver.

12. Volkswagen Golf GTI

The Volkswagen Golf GTI continues its legacy as one of the most balanced hot hatches on the market, offering a six-speed manual transmission.

•Why It’s Great: The manual GTI allows drivers to fully engage with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which produces 241 horsepower. The precision of the gearbox, paired with the GTI’s responsive chassis and sharp handling, creates an unbeatable package for enthusiasts.

•Specs: The GTI also includes selectable driving modes and a refined suspension system for a versatile driving experience.

•Price: Starting at $31,000, the GTI remains a top choice for those who value performance and practicality.

13. Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

For those who love off-roading and manual transmissions, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro remains a stalwart in the midsize truck category.

•Why It’s Great: The Tacoma TRD Pro’s six-speed manual transmission is paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, making it one of the last trucks to offer a manual option. The manual enhances the driving experience during challenging off-road adventures, providing precise control over the powertrain.

•Specs: Equipped with off-road-specific features like multi-terrain select and crawl control, the Tacoma TRD Pro is built to handle rugged environments.

•Price: Starting at $48,000, it’s a unique offering in the truck segment for manual enthusiasts.

14. Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler continues to offer a manual transmission, reinforcing its reputation as a go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle.

•Why It’s Great: The six-speed manual transmission pairs with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, providing a more engaging and traditional off-road experience. The Wrangler’s manual gearbox enhances its rugged charm, allowing drivers to fully immerse themselves in the driving process on and off the road.

•Specs: The Wrangler features advanced four-wheel-drive systems, high ground clearance, and customizable configurations for true adventure seekers.

•Price: Starting at $32,000, the Wrangler is a versatile and affordable choice for manual enthusiasts.

15. MINI Cooper S

The MINI Cooper S combines playful driving dynamics with a six-speed manual transmission, making it a favorite among urban drivers and enthusiasts alike.

•Why It’s Great: The manual transmission in the Cooper S enhances its zippy character, allowing drivers to maximize the fun of its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Its small size and nimble handling make it perfect for city driving, while the manual adds an extra layer of engagement.

•Specs: Front-wheel drive and sporty suspension tuning ensure a lively driving experience.

•Price: Starting at $27,000, the Cooper S offers a premium feel with an engaging manual option.

16. Chevrolet Corvette Z06

For high-performance enthusiasts, the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is one of the most thrilling cars still offering a manual transmission in 2024.

•Why It’s Great: The Z06’s seven-speed manual gearbox pairs with a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 that delivers an incredible 670 horsepower. The manual provides unmatched control and engagement, turning every drive into a high-adrenaline experience.

•Specs: Rear-wheel drive and advanced aerodynamics make it track-ready right out of the factory.

•Price: Starting at $105,000, the Z06 is a high-end option for serious driving enthusiasts.

In a world increasingly dominated by automatic and electric vehicles, the cars listed above represent a defiant stand for driving engagement. Each offers a unique take on the manual transmission experience, from the affordability of the Toyota GR86 to the unbridled performance of the Porsche 911 GT3. These cars prove that while manuals may be rare, they’re far from obsolete.

Whether you’re a purist who loves the art of shifting gears or a newcomer looking to experience the joy of a manual for the first time, 2024 still offers some incredible options. As we move further into an automated future, these cars serve as reminders of the thrill and connection that only a manual transmission can provide.

No comments yet.