LandCruiser
New member
These aren't sports cars. The SC makes the 3rd gen less slow.
5th gen 4Runner earns "least fun to drive" rating
- Thread starter paddlenbike
- Start date
These aren't sports cars. The SC makes the 3rd gen less slow.
BlackWorksInc
New member
There's also some other variables to take into account like torque-band, transmission gearing, ect. But I digress...
The 5th Gens are a bit portly (particularly standing side-by side a 4th gen built on the same, well basically identical frame,) but an LC100 is actually a bit taller and slightly porkier (but not much.) Though I like my 4th gen more compared to an almost uncomfortably small 3rd gen (I say almost because they feel more cramped, but are still surprisingly nice to sit in; so it's not "bad" just a bit tight) The 5th gens are a bit nicer inside, but the ergonomics feel off to me compared to my 4th gen and I never really have been able to adjust to them as much as I did my 4th gen.
Honestly, I was really adamant on a manual transmission for a long time... but I've been really happy with the 4Runner's automatics in the 4th and 5th gens off-road, much of that I imagine has to do with the electronic tuning to support the system.
Though unfortunately manual transmissions are on the way out, there's just little to no benefit to them in the current market that a properly tuned automatic, dual-clutch, hybrid, etc. system can't do better. Not to mention a larger and larger population that have little to no idea how to drive them...
I'll be honest though, I have liked the first run of 5th gen exteriors and had they dropped a 4.6L 1UR-FE under the hood I would have snatched a brand new one up in a heartbeat in 2010/2011 instead of the 4th gen I have now.
paddlenbike
Member
Automatics have come a very long ways, there is no doubt. I have two other new cars in my driveway with automatics, but technologically advanced or not, I just don't find them as rewarding to drive. Even offroad, I still prefer the manual.
I recognize I am the minority here when it comes to my strong desire for manual transmission vehicles. All of my travels have led me to believe manuals are still the transmission of choice outside of the U.S. I tend to think europeans are more interested in the driving experience than drinking big gulps and surfing facebook while driving. Heck, an article was posted on the Associated Press yesterday that most young people would choose their smartphone over a car. Clearly they won't be choosing manuals.
LandCruiser
New member
MT sucks off road.
You either roll back or cook your clutch--or both. It's literally the last thing I want to worry/think about.
I've seen more ATs on CO trails than MTs--except for the ancient trucks.
BlackWorksInc
New member
I would like another manual car at some point, I do miss that mechanical connection that you get with 3 pedals.
LandCruiser
New member
But modern MTs are so rubbery, vague, with cluches that don't engage reliably... then Toyota decides to continue manufacture of MT's with defective T/O bearings.
I'm kind of done with MTs, unless someone wants to put in one that is more than a half-assed afterthought.
paddlenbike
Member
The Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ, new Miata, Mazda 3, pretty much any manual Honda/Acura product, BMWs 3-series...all of these cars have pretty slick shifting manuals. I almost want to cry when I see people spec'ing these cars with autos.
My wife has a 2013 Acura TSX. This car has a pretty amazing 4 cylinder engine...the dual VTEC 7600 RPM redline K24 series engine that has made Honda famous. She chose the paddleshifting auto, and even with that amazing engine under the hood, the auto just kills the fun for me. I've driven the same car with Acura's slick shifting 6-speed manual and it's like a completely different car.
I shouldn't loose too much sleep over it though, the automatic transmission is slowly being replaced with electric motors and a fixed final drive. My 1-speed Leaf has taught me that isn't all that bad, and certainly better than feeling 8 shift points in the new ZF 9-speed auto or the crappy rubberband feeling you get with a CVT.
