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The Death of the Front-engined Manual Transmission?

Posted on Jan 29, 2024

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The stick-shift option is rapidly disappearing from vehicle lineups.

It’s no secret that manual transmissions are beginning to disappear from the automotive landscape. Lack of widespread consumer interest in three-pedal cars over the past decade has prompted many manufacturers to permanently phase out the "stickshift" from their vehicle options. For classic car enthusiasts and lifelong manual users, this industry revolution strikes close to home. This is especially true for front-engined cars; industry staple models that have used manual transmissions since the beginning have begun to leave the stickshift behind. In order to celebrate the legacy some of these cars have built and to prevent them from falling into obscurity, let’s take a look at some of the final front engine production models that let drivers shift through the gears.


2019 Corvette C7

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The still well-performing 2019 Corvette C7. (Cred: MOTOR1)

Corvettes hold a special place as the favored sports car among many Americans, being the first of its kind produced domestically and maintaining a stellar reputation for speed and engineering. Nevertheless, the discontinuation of the manual C7 in the 2019 model year has shifted precision control of its power to the wayside with the automatic gearbox. Fortunately, this last cohort of C7 owners possess a vehicle that remains distinctive in the current front-engine landscape.


Featuring a subtly sophisticated yet opulent interior, the 455 bhp V8 of the C7 remains formidable even five years later. For enthusiasts seeking track performance or tapping into the C7's racing heritage, the Z06 and Z51 packages added more control and horsepower respectively, though at the cost of some aforementioned precision. However, in our opinion, the base model already has so much to offer; its cabin amenities and already impressive power make it a dependable choice. This base model serves as a fantastic conclusion to the brand's legacy of delivering enjoyable high-speed experiences without unnecessary complexity.


2019 Jaguar F-Type

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The Jaguar F-type provides comfort and thrill paired with that standard-transmission charm. (Cred: CarBuzz)

Those looking for an overseas option during the decline of the American manual were smart to have selected a Jaguar F-Type as their new vehicle in the 2019 model year. The F-Type’s launch in the 2015 was a bit of a homecoming for the company, signaling a return to prominence with a striking new design, a focus on power, and a nostalgic nod to the brand's iconic classic, the E-type.


Acquiring a manual F-Type required accepting a couple of challenges: aside from import taxes, these manual versions were exclusively paired with the V6 engine. The limited availability, especially in contrast to the more prevalent V8 models, implies that finding a stick-shift F-Type might prove more challenging than locating an average second-hand sports car. Some may not even be aware of the existence of a V6 version. Nevertheless, the driving experience, enhanced reliability, and collectible appeal make these models an excellent choice for enthusiasts with a penchant for European GT style and a preference for three pedals.


2017 Aston Martin V8 Vantage


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Owners of this Vantage claim two milestones: the final year of a stickshift Vantage and one of the prettiest years as well. (Cred: edmunds)

Renowned for crafting vehicles that seamlessly blend comfort, safety, design, and performance, Aston Martin has consistently delivered exceptional packages. The Vantage stands as a prime example, earning critical acclaim and establishing itself as one of the most cherished high-end sports cars of the last decade. The enduring legacy of the Vantage underscores the gravity of the manual option's discontinuation in 2017, representing a poignant milestone in the history of this distinguished model.


While the Vantage name endures, the 2017 model featuring a manual transmission represents the pinnacle of advancements made since the line's introduction in 2005. Boasting a robust 4.7L 420 bhp V8 engine, remarkable spaciousness and practicality for a two-seater, an array of features, and an exquisite design, this car embodies a sophisticated package that pays homage to the rich tradition of driving. Although the era of manual Astons has passed, this vehicle serves as a splendid farewell, remaining a captivating choice for collectors even today.


While the widespread demise of front-engine manuals hasn't occurred yet, their increasing rarity in the global automotive market becomes more apparent each year. Notably, companies such as Dodge and Chevrolet are discontinuing legacy manuals like the Challenger and Camaro post-2023, signaling a broader trend of phasing out manual transmissions. Despite the lamentable loss of a fundamental driving experience for many enthusiasts, these recent front-engine models still offer a host of compelling features that will undoubtedly render them invaluable for collectors or aficionados of the traditional driving style in the years ahead.

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© Copyright Fraction Motors LLC - 2024