In a world increasingly dominated by automatic transmissions‚ the manual gearbox remains a cherished relic for enthusiasts who crave a more engaging driving experience․ The visceral connection and control offered by a stick shift are irreplaceable‚ especially in the realm of sports cars․ Here’s a look at some of the top manual transmission sports cars that graced the roads in 2021⁚
1․ Honda Civic Type R
The Honda Civic Type R is a legend in the hot hatch world‚ and its 2021 iteration didn’t disappoint․ With a screaming 2․0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque‚ the Type R delivers exhilarating performance․ Its six-speed manual gearbox is precise and engaging‚ allowing drivers to exploit the engine’s full potential․ The Type R’s handling is sharp and responsive‚ making it a true track weapon․
2․ Subaru WRX STI
Another iconic name in the performance car segment‚ the Subaru WRX STI remains a rally-bred beast․ Its 2․5-liter turbocharged boxer engine pumps out 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque‚ channeled through a six-speed manual transmission․ The STI’s all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip and stability‚ making it a capable performer in all conditions․ Its rally-inspired heritage ensures a thrilling driving experience․
3․ Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of pure driving enjoyment․ Its lightweight design‚ nimble handling‚ and responsive 2․0-liter four-cylinder engine make it a joy to drive․ The Miata’s six-speed manual transmission is a delight to use‚ offering precise shifts and a satisfying mechanical feel․
4․ Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra made a triumphant return in 2020‚ and its manual transmission option solidified its status as a driver’s car․ The 3․0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine produces 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque‚ making the Supra a formidable performer․ Its six-speed manual transmission offers a smooth and precise shifting experience‚ enhancing the driving experience․
5․ Porsche 718 Cayman
The Porsche 718 Cayman is a mid-engined masterpiece that combines performance‚ handling‚ and style․ Its 2․0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine produces 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque‚ making it a thrilling drive․ The Cayman’s six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use‚ offering precise shifts and a tactile feel․ Its handling is precise and predictable‚ making it a true driver’s car․
These are just a few of the many great manual transmission sports cars that were available in 2021․ While the future of the manual gearbox remains uncertain‚ its appeal to enthusiasts is undeniable․ For those who appreciate the art of driving‚ a stick shift remains the ultimate way to connect with their car․