10 Recommended Manual Vehicles (MT Vehicles) ｜ Introduction of popular models such as Toyota and Subaru
What is a manual car (MT car)?
A manual vehicle (MT vehicle) is a term that refers to a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission that can manually change the gear stage of a gasoline engine or diesel engine. It is also written as an MT car, but this is an acronym for Manual Transmission. Nowadays, the number of vehicles adopted has decreased due to the evolution of automatic transmissions, but you can still choose manual vehicles for sports cars, some SUVs, light vehicles, commercial vehicles, etc.
pointHow to drive a manual car (MT car) [Basic knowledge]
The driver must connect and disconnect the clutch, which is necessary to transmit the power generated by the engine to the transmission and tires. There are three pedals at the bottom of the driver's seat, from left to right: the clutch pedal, brake pedal, and accelerator pedal (also called the ABC pedal). It is necessary to disengage the clutch by depressing the clutch pedal at the left end, change the gear stage by operating the shift lever (called shifting), release the clutch pedal, and connect the clutch. Do this every time you change gears, whether you raise or lower them.
Difference between manual car (MT car) and automatic car (AT car)
The structure of a general automatic car (AT car) and a manual car is almost the same. The big difference is that AT cars are equipped with an automatic transmission that automatically connects and disconnects the clutch, and a fluid clutch called a torque converter is often used inside, so you can use the appropriate gear while driving. It will be selected automatically. There are also models of AT vehicles that use technologies such as continuously variable transmission CVT and DCT that uses separate transmissions for odd and even gears.
License required to drive a manual car (MT car)
The current driver's license system for ordinary vehicles includes an unlimited license that allows both manual and automatic vehicles to be driven, and an automatic limited license (automatic license, AT license). The car you ride during the course or test is a manual car, and you can obtain an almighty unlimited ordinary car license by learning techniques including clutch operation and being examined. In order to be able to drive a manual car after obtaining an automatic limited license, it is necessary to take a driving school's limited release training and pass the limited release proficiency test at the driver's license center.
Attractiveness and advantages of manual transmission (MT vehicle)
Is it straight, corner, or how steep is it? There is a merit that you can enjoy comfortable driving by selecting the optimum gear according to the road conditions that differ depending on the driving. Even in a family car on a general road, if you draw out all the engine potential, it will be a speed violation, but if you repeat gear changes that make use of the torque band, you can enjoy the feeling of acceleration even in a weak car, and climb the slope steadily. You will be able to go. Since manual transmissions have high transmission efficiency, they used to have the advantage of good fuel economy, but with the recent improvements in automatic transmission technology, they have more than eight gears and fine-tuned gear selection. The automatic car is better.
10 Recommended Manual Vehicles (MT Vehicles) [Toyota, Subaru, etc.]
Below, we will introduce 10 recommended manual transmission (MT vehicles) models. Please refer to the selection of the car that suits you while comparing the features and prices.
Manual car recommended 1. Mazda Roadster
Japan's proud FR lightweight sports car. The first model, announced in 1989, was inspired by the Lotus Elan, but today it is the most famous two-seater compact open sports car in the world. The current model is the 4th generation. The engine is 1500cc and the power and torque are not excellent, but the ultra-lightweight body of 990kg ~ allows you to enjoy a pleasant acceleration feeling.
| Maker | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Roadster |
| Model grade | S |
| Model year | January 2022 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3915 x 1735 x 1235 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2310mm |
| Vehicle weight | 990kg |
| Suspension type | Before: Double wishbone type After: Multi-link type |
| Engine model | P5-VP [RS] |
| Total displacement | 1496cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 74.5mm x 85.8mm |
| Compression ratio | 13.0 |
| Maximum output | 132ps (97kW) / 7000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 15.5kg ・ m (152N ・ m) / 4500rpm |
| Fuel supply device | In-cylinder direct injection (DI) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded premium gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 2,620,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 29,000 to 3,068,000 yen |
| Catalog page | Mazda Roadster |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 2. Toyota GR 86
The GR 86 was jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, and was further brushed up by Toyota's sports car brand GR. The feature is that it inherits the name of AE86, which gained popularity as a boys racer. It is popular because of its easy-to-manipulate power and body size, and its relatively easy-to-purchase price range. In addition, it has been certified as a one-make race participation vehicle along with its brother car BRZ, and is attracting attention as a car for race debut.
| Maker | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | GR86 |
| Model grade | RC |
| Model year | October 2021 |
| Overall length x width x height | 4265 x 1775 x 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2575mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1260kg |
| Suspension type | Front: MacPherson strut coil spring Rear: Double wishbone coil spring |
| Engine model | FA24 |
| Total displacement | 2387cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 94.0mm x 86.0mm |
| Compression ratio | - |
| Maximum output | 235ps (173kW) / 7000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 25.5kg ・ m (250N ・ m) / 3700rpm |
| Fuel supply device | In-cylinder direct + port fuel injection device (D-4S) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded premium gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 2,800,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 3.25 to 3.25 million yen |
| Catalog page | Toyota GR86 |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 3. Subaru BRZ
It is a brother car of GR 86 equipped with Subaru's 2400cc horizontally opposed 4-cylinder DOHC engine and EyeSight of advanced safety technology, but it can be distinguished that it is different due to the difference in design such as front grille and head lamp. The point is that it is not a car that pursues only sports elements. The legs are supple and comfortable to ride, and it can be regarded as a Gran Turismo.
| Maker | Subaru |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | BRZ |
| Model grade | R |
| Model year | August 2021 |
| Overall length x width x height | 4265 x 1775 x 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2575mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1260kg |
| Suspension type | Before: Strut type independent suspension After: Double wishbone type independent suspension |
| Engine model | FA24 |
| Total displacement | 2387cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 94.0mm x 86.0mm |
| Compression ratio | 12.5 |
| Maximum output | 235ps (173kW) / 7000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 25.5kg ・ m (250N ・ m) / 3700rpm |
| Fuel supply device | In-cylinder direct + port fuel injection device (D-4S) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded premium gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 3,080,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 103 to 3.39 million yen |
| Catalog page | Subaru BRZ |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 4. Suzuki Swift Sport
A model that uses a compact car platform to create a vehicle called a hot hatch. The lightweight body of less than 1t and the 1400cc straight-four turbo engine go well together, and it is controllable and easy to drive no matter who rides it. Although it has the potential to participate in the rally championship, the price range is low, and it can be noticed as the first sports car, and it is also popular as a car aimed at men who can not forget the sports car at home with small children.
| Maker | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Swift sports |
| Model grade | Base grade |
| Model year | May 2020 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3890 x 1735 x 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450mm |
| Vehicle weight | 970kg |
| Suspension type | Front: MacPherson strut coil spring Rear: Torsion beam coil spring |
| Engine model | K14C |
| Total displacement | 1371cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 73.0 mm x 81.9 mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.9 |
| Maximum output | 140ps (103kW) / 5500rpm |
| Maximum torque | 23.4kg ・ m (230N ・ m) / 2500-3500rpm |
| Fuel supply device | EPI (Electronic Controlled Fuel Injection Device) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded premium gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 37 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 2,020,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 358,000-4,480,000 yen |
| Catalog page | Suzuki Swift Sport |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 5. Nissan March NISMO S
NISMO S stands out as if it were a works tuned from Nissan's compact car march. In order to receive a 1500cc large displacement engine, we have prepared a body with increased rigidity with suspension member stays and tail crossbar, and special tuning from suspension to tires, steering and brakes. The gear ratio is low, and by making full use of the 5-speed manual, it became one that you can enjoy the pleasure of driving in everyday style.
| Maker | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | March |
| Model grade | NISMO S |
| Model year | July 2020 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3870 x 1690 x 1495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1010kg |
| Suspension type | Front: Independent suspension strut type Rear: Torsion beam type |
| Engine model | HR15DE |
| Total displacement | 1498cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 78.0mm x 78.4mm |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 |
| Maximum output | 116ps (85kW) / 6000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 15.9kg ・ m (156N ・ m) / 3600rpm |
| Fuel supply device | Nissan EGI (ECCS) Electronically Controlled Fuel Injection Device |
| Fuel used | Unleaded premium gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 1,880,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 48.8-2398,000 yen |
| Catalog page | Nissan March |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 6. Toyota Corolla Sport
The Corolla Sport, which wears a stylish hatchback style, also has a manual setting. As the name suggests, it is equipped with a suspension suitable for sports driving, and the handling is also sharp and the feeling of rigidity of the entire body is transmitted. It is a model that can correctly trace the line you aimed at by stepping on the asphalt powerfully and cornering with a sense of stability. A luggage compartment is secured while carrying a large number of passengers. It is the best one for those who want to enjoy manual driving while emphasizing convenience.
| Maker | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Corolla Sport |
| Model grade | Hybrid G Style 50 Million Edition |
| Model year | November 2021 |
| Overall length x width x height | 4375 x 1790 x 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2640mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1360kg |
| Suspension type | Front: MacPherson strut coil spring Rear: Double wishbone coil spring |
| Engine model | 2ZR-FXE |
| Total displacement | 1797cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 80.5mm x 88.3mm |
| Compression ratio | - |
| Maximum output | 98ps (72kW) / 5200rpm |
| Maximum torque | 14.5kg ・ m (142N ・ m) / 3600rpm |
| Fuel supply device | Electronically controlled fuel injection system (EFI) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded regular gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | 34.2km / liter |
| New car price | 2,830,000 yen |
| Used car price range | - |
| Catalog page | Toyota Corolla Sport |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 7. Daihatsu Copen
A 2-seater open sports car with a light car frame that is rich in design. Robe with an urban impression, XPLAY with an SUV-like atmosphere, Cero with a classical design, and the sporty GR SPORT sold under the Toyota GR brand. Moreover, the resin exterior panel is removable, and it is possible to change to other designs. It has a unique personality that the entire vehicle can be dressed up. There is also LSD as a maker option, and you can enjoy a direct feeling of acceleration.
| Maker | Daihatsu |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Copen |
| Model grade | Robe |
| Model year | April 2021 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3395 x 1475 x 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2230mm |
| Vehicle weight | 870kg |
| Suspension type | Front: MacPherson strut coil spring Rear: Torsion beam coil spring |
| Engine model | KF |
| Total displacement | 658cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 63.0mm x 70.4mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Maximum output | 64ps (47kW) / 6400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 9.4kg ・ m (92N ・ m) / 3200rpm |
| Fuel supply device | EFI (Electronic Controlled Fuel Injection Device) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded regular gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 30 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 1,890,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 82-3.83 million yen |
| Catalog page | Daihatsu Copen |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 8. Suzuki Alto Works
Alto Works inherits the image of the first generation that made a name for itself as a light FF sports car. The FF model weighs only 670kg. Even with 4WD, it is extremely light at 720 kg. A dedicated ECU, cross mission, and dedicated shop absorber are used for such a body, making it one that you can enjoy fresh driving. The characteristics of the engine also start up quickly from the low rev range to the regulated horsepower, and it is quite fast if a nice shift work is decided.
| Maker | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Alto Works |
| Model grade | Base grade |
| Model year | October 2020 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3395 x 1475 x 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2460mm |
| Vehicle weight | 670kg |
| Suspension type | Front: MacPherson strut coil spring Rear: Torsion beam coil spring |
| Engine model | R06A |
| Total displacement | 658cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 64.0mm x 68.2mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.1 |
| Maximum output | 64ps (47kW) / 6000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 10.2kg ・ m (100N ・ m) / 3000rpm |
| Fuel supply device | EPI (Electronic Controlled Fuel Injection Device) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded regular gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 27 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 1,540,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 680 to 2.99 million yen |
| Catalog page | Suzuki Alto Works |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 9. Suzuki Jimny
Jimny, which is popular not only as an SUV for mini vehicles but also as a compact but full-scale off-road vehicle, has a manual setting. The low geared 1st to 3rd gears are conscious of running performance on unpaved roads, and the 4th to 5th gears are high geared to improve high speed cruising performance. While carving out a road without a road, there is no dissatisfaction with traveling on the highway for a light SUV. It can be said that Suzuki's skill that combines conflicting driving performance into one is wonderful.
| Maker | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Jimny |
| Model grade | XG |
| Model year | October 2021 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3395 x 1475 x 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2250mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1030kg |
| Suspension type | Front: 3-link rigid axle coil spring Rear: 3-link rigid axle coil spring |
| Engine model | R06A |
| Total displacement | 658cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 64.0mm x 68.2mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.1 |
| Maximum output | 64ps (47kW) / 6000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 9.8kg ・ m (96N ・ m) / 3500rpm |
| Fuel supply device | EPI (Electronic Controlled Fuel Injection Device) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded regular gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 1,490,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 0.8 to 3.06 million yen |
| Catalog page | Suzuki Jimny |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car recommended 10. Mazda Roadster RF
Roadster RF is a rare car in the world that combines the openness of an open car with the beauty of a closed sports car. It has a structure like the Porsche 911 Targa and S660 that can be removed only from the rooftop, but the storage method is electric. If you open the roof and rear window, it will be comfortable to get in the wind, and if you close it, it will be quiet, so long-distance travel on the highway will be less burdensome. It can be said that it is a roadster for adults.
| Maker | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Roadster RF |
| Model grade | S |
| Model year | January 2022 |
| Overall length x width x height | 3915 x 1735 x 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2310mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1100kg |
| Suspension type | Before: Double wishbone type After: Multi-link type |
| Engine model | PE-VPR [RS] |
| Total displacement | 1997cc |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 83.5mm x 91.2mm |
| Compression ratio | 13.0 |
| Maximum output | 184ps (135kW) / 7000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 20.9kg ・ m (205N ・ m) / 4000rpm |
| Fuel supply device | In-cylinder direct injection (DI) |
| Fuel used | Unleaded premium gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 liters |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | - |
| New car price | 3,460,000 yen |
| Used car price range | 189.9-3423 thousand yen |
| Catalog page | Mazda Roadster RF |
* Model grade is an example
Manual car (MT car) Price comparison list of recommended car models
| Vehicle type | Model grade | New car price |
|---|---|---|
| Mazda Roadster | S | 2,620,000 yen |
| Toyota GR 86 | RC | 2,800,000 yen |
| Subaru BRZ | R | 3,080,000 yen |
| Suzuki Swift Sport | Base grade | 2,020,000 yen |
| Nissan March NISMO S | NISMO S | 1,880,000 yen |
| Toyota Corolla Sport | Hybrid G Style 50 Million Edition | 2,830,000 yen |
| Daihatsu Copen | Robe | 1,890,000 yen |
| Suzuki Alto Works | Base grade | 1,540,000 yen |
| Suzuki Jimny | XG | 1,490,000 yen |
| Mazda Roadster RF | S | 3,460,000 yen |
[Q & A] Frequently asked questions about manual transmissions (MT vehicles)
Below, we will answer many questions and questions about manual transmissions (MT vehicles).
Q & AQ. Are there any types of mini vehicles that can be driven manually?
be. Considering the sports car category, a light manual car that can use 1st to 4th speed on a general road can enjoy the pleasure of gear change most. Also, if commercial vehicles such as light trucks and light vans are included, there may be more vehicles that can be driven manually. If you think of a car as a tool, the merit of a manual mission that makes it easy to reduce costs becomes conspicuous.
Q. Is it okay for beginners to choose a manual car as the first car?
There is no problem because you will learn how to operate manual missions when you get a license, but it is not recommended for people who live in areas with many slopes. After all, starting uphill is the demon gate. When you step on the right foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal, it tends to fall back, and if you are not used to it, you will be quite impatient. Some recent models have a hill hold feature to prevent it.
Q. What should I know in advance so that I will not regret choosing a manual car?
Ask yourself what you want for a manual car. If you want to be free to choose the gear, try a test drive with an automatic transmission equipped with a manual mode. Since there is no need to operate the clutch and the gear can be changed with a shift lever or paddle shift, there is the advantage that it can run more smoothly than a pure manual car.
Let's purchase a manual car (MT car) with reference to reviews and reviews
A manual car that is said to be extinct in the heyday of EV cars. If you want to ride, it may be your last chance now that a new car is still being made. Let's purchase by referring to the reviews and reviews on the net and SNS so that you can meet the manual car that is perfect for you and you can ride the manual car without mistakes.