For driving enthusiasts, the best manual transmission cars offer a unique blend of control, engagement, and nostalgia. These four-wheelers make up only 1.7% of vehicles sold in the US in 2023. But, despite this statistic, a recent surge in demand proves they’re far from obsolete. These timeless machines continue to captivate drivers everywhere. Here’s our selection of some stick-shift beauties you should know about.
The Decline and Resurgence of Manual Transmissions
The prevalence of manual transmissions has significantly declined over the years. In 2020, only 2.4% of new rides sold in the US were equipped with manual gearboxes. And it’s completely normal since electric vehicles truly are considered the future.
However, as already mentioned, recent data indicates a modest resurgence. In 2023, manual transmissions accounted for 1.7% of total U.S. new-vehicle sales, up from 0.9% in 2021. This uptick suggests a renewed interest among certain driver demographics, particularly younger enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience. You really can’t go more authentic than driving a manual – unless you’d like to roll in a carriage.
What Are the Advantages of Manual Transmissions?
Manual transmissions continue to hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts, and for good reason. Beyond the nostalgic allure of shifting gears, these vehicles offer tangible benefits that cater to both practical needs and the desire for a more immersive driving experience. Here are some of the most important perks:
- Enhanced driver engagement – These gearboxes require active driver participation, fostering a deeper connection between the driver and the vehicle. This engagement is often cited as a primary reason enthusiasts prefer manuals.
- Cost efficiency – These vehicles are typically less expensive to purchase and maintain. They are generally priced at $800–$1,000 cheaper than their automatic counterparts.
- Fuel efficiency – Manual transmissions can offer better fuel economy, with gas mileage improving by two to five miles per gallon compared to automatics, depending on driving habits.
- Theft deterrence – As fewer people learn to drive manuals, cars equipped with stick shifts are less likely to be stolen, serving as an unintended security feature.
Whether you’re a seasoned driver who loves the control of a stick shift or someone seeking a budget-friendly option, manual rides bring advantages that are hard to ignore. If you’re trying to become one with your four-wheeler but don’t want to spend a fortune to make it happen, manuals are where it’s at.
Best Manual Transmission Cars That Bring Stick-Shift Driving to a Whole New Level
For those interested in experiencing the unique benefits of manual driving, several manufacturers continue to offer models equipped with these gearboxes. Let’s take a ride through the best manuals out on the streets right now.
Porsche 911 Carrera T
The Porsche 911 has long been a benchmark in the sports car world, known for its precision engineering and unrivaled driving dynamics. Even in its more “tame” versions, it delivers an extraordinary experience that feels meticulously crafted. Among the lineup, the Carrera T stands out as an enthusiast’s delight, especially for those who appreciate the tactile joy of a manual transmission.
For 2025, the Carrera T is one of the few 911 models that still offers a six-speed manual gearbox, making it a rare gem for driving purists. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine delivers 388 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 183 mph. These numbers are impressive for what Porsche considers one of the “entry-level” variants of the iconic 911.
First introduced in 1964, the Porsche 911 has evolved while staying true to its roots. The Carrera T continues that tradition, offering an engaging driving experience that’s hard to match. Starting at $134,000, it combines classic sports car performance with modern refinement, making it a dream car for enthusiasts who crave the connection only a manual transmission can provide.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has earned its reputation as one of the most beloved sports cars of all time, celebrated for its perfect balance of lightweight design, nimble handling, and accessible performance. This roadster has consistently delivered an unparalleled driving experience that feels just as at home on a winding mountain pass as it does cruising down the highway.
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata carries on this proud tradition, staying true to the core principles that have made it a favorite among enthusiasts for decades. A key feature of the latest model is its six-speed manual transmission, which elevates its sporty character and provides a direct connection to the road that Miata drivers cherish. This gearbox, paired with the Miata’s 181-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, ensures every shift is smooth and precise.
Weighing in at just under 2,400 pounds, the Miata remains one of the lightest sports cars on the market, a characteristic that directly contributes to its famously agile handling. This featherweight frame, combined with near-perfect weight distribution, allows the car to corner with remarkable precision and responsiveness. Whether you’re an experienced driver or new to sports cars, the Miata makes every twist and turn feel like an event.
For those who value pure driving joy over raw power, Miata’s approach to performance is a refreshing reminder of what makes sports cars truly special. Its affordability, reliability, and timeless design only add to its appeal, making the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata a modern classic that continues to define what it means to be a driver’s car.
Nissan Z
The Nissan Z, with its sleek retro-inspired design, pays homage to its storied past while embracing modern performance. A standout feature for enthusiasts is the optional manual transmission, a rarity in today’s sports car market. This nostalgic touch sets it apart, especially when compared to its sibling, the R35 GT-R, which only offers a dual-clutch automatic.
The stick shift is available on two of the three Z trims – the Sport and Performance models – offering drivers an engaging way to experience the car’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. This powerhouse delivers 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 155 mph.
First introduced in 1969, the Nissan Z has a rich history of delivering excitement and style at an accessible price point. Starting at $42,970, the latest Z continues that tradition, blending performance, heritage, and the joy of rowing your own gear. For those who value connection and control behind the wheel, the Nissan Z is a compelling choice in the modern sports car landscape.
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is already carving out its place as one of the greatest sports sedans in automotive history. A big part of its appeal lies in its powerhouse engine – a supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V8 borrowed from the legendary C7 Corvette Z06. In this iteration, it’s tuned to deliver a jaw-dropping 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can pair this beast with a 10-speed automatic transmission or, for the purists, an engaging six-speed manual.
Shifting through six gears while the LT4 engine roars and reverberates off canyon walls is an unforgettable experience. It’s the kind of visceral thrill that defines what driving should feel like. While the CT5-V Blackwing may not dominate sales charts, Cadillac’s commitment to creating this masterpiece is a gift to the automotive world – and its exclusivity only makes it more appealing to discerning buyers.
First introduced in 2021, this sedan packs serious performance credentials. It can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 mph, all while offering an immersive, driver-centric experience. Starting at $95,595, the CT5-V Blackwing is a rare gem for enthusiasts who appreciate the art of precision engineering and the thrill of complete control.
Toyota GR Supra
If there’s one thing the last few years have proven, it’s this – the Toyota GR Supra is built for true driving enthusiasts. While the modern Supra initially debuted in 2019 without a manual transmission, Toyota listened to its fans. In recent years, they’ve made a manual gearbox available, giving drivers the classic stick-shift experience they craved.
Every version of this iconic coupe now comes with the option for a manual, including the most powerful model. Under the hood, it features a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that delivers an impressive 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph.
With roots dating back to 1978, the Supra rates as one of the best used manual transmission cars. Also, it continues to deliver on performance and excitement. Starting at $56,250, it’s a high-powered sports car that offers an exhilarating driving experience, especially for those who still love shifting gears the old-school way.
The Future of Manual Transmissions
While the overall trend in the automotive industry leans towards automation and electric vehicles, the sustained interest in manual transmissions among driving enthusiasts suggests that manuals occupy a niche market. Manufacturers recognize this passion and are likely to maintain manual options in select performance-oriented models to cater to this dedicated customer base.
Driving a Stick Is Making a Comeback in Modern Driving
Vehicles with the stick offer a driving experience that emphasizes control, engagement, and skill. Despite a general decline in popularity, a resurgence in interest among certain drivers indicates that the manual gearbox will remain a valued feature in the automotive landscape. For those seeking an immersive driving experience, the models highlighted above represent some of the best options available nowadays. Here’s to shifting gears for years to come!
