Top 90s Cars with the Best Transmission

The 1990s was a golden age for automotive innovation, and transmissions were no exception․ This decade saw the rise of sophisticated automatic transmissions, smooth-shifting manuals, and even the first forays into electronically controlled gearboxes․ Here are some of the best transmissions from the 90s, paired with the cars that made them famous⁚

1․ Mazda MX-5 Miata (1990-1997) ⸺ 5-Speed Manual

The Miata’s 5-speed manual transmission was a masterpiece of simplicity and engagement․ Its short throws, precise shifting, and light clutch made it a joy to use․ The Miata’s lightweight nature and balanced handling made it a true driver’s car, and its gearbox was a key part of that experience․

2․ Honda Civic (1992-1995) ⎼ 5-Speed Manual

Honda’s 5-speed manual in the 90s Civic was known for its slick shifting and durability․ It was a perfect match for the Civic’s peppy engine and sporty handling․ Whether you were zipping around town or taking a spirited drive on a winding road, the Civic’s gearbox always felt responsive and connected․

3․ Toyota Supra (1993-1998) ⸺ 6-Speed Manual

The Supra’s 6-speed manual was a technological marvel for its time․ Its smooth and precise shifting, combined with its ability to handle the Supra’s powerful engine, made it a favorite among enthusiasts․ It offered a perfect blend of performance and drivability․

4․ Porsche 911 (1994-1998) ⎼ 6-Speed Manual

The 911’s 6-speed manual transmission was a testament to Porsche’s engineering prowess․ Its precise and robust design allowed it to handle the 911’s high horsepower and torque without a hitch․ It was the perfect partner for the 911’s legendary handling and performance․

5․ Nissan 240SX (1995-1998) ⸺ 5-Speed Manual

The 240SX’s 5-speed manual was a classic example of a well-engineered and affordable gearbox․ It was known for its smooth shifting, durability, and ability to handle the 240SX’s rear-wheel drive․ It was a key part of the 240SX’s reputation as a fun and affordable sports car․

6․ Ford Mustang (1994-1998) ⎼ 5-Speed Manual

The Mustang’s 5-speed manual transmission was a reliable and engaging gearbox․ It was a perfect match for the Mustang’s V8 engine and classic muscle car styling․ Whether you were cruising down the highway or taking it to the drag strip, the Mustang’s gearbox was always up to the task․

7․ Chevrolet Corvette (1997-1999) ⸺ 6-Speed Manual

The Corvette’s 6-speed manual transmission was a technological marvel for its time․ It was known for its smooth shifting, precise engagement, and ability to handle the Corvette’s high horsepower and torque․ It was a key part of the Corvette’s reputation as a performance icon․

8․ BMW 3 Series (1992-1999) ⎼ 5-Speed Manual

The 3 Series’ 5-speed manual transmission was a benchmark for its time․ It was known for its smooth shifting, precise engagement, and ability to handle the 3 Series’ range of engines․ It was a key part of the 3 Series’ reputation as a driver’s car․

9․ Audi A4 (1995-1999) ⸺ 5-Speed Manual

The A4’s 5-speed manual transmission was a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess․ It was known for its smooth shifting, precise engagement, and ability to handle the A4’s range of engines․ It was a key part of the A4’s reputation as a premium sports sedan․

These are just a few of the many great transmissions that were available in cars during the 1990s․ Whether you prefer a manual or an automatic, there was a gearbox out there that was perfect for you․ So if you’re looking for a car with a great transmission, be sure to check out some of the models from this era․