Any manual drivers driven Automatics?

[Postdog]

Basically, I've been driving for years, since the 70's, and have always driven manuals. It's what I learned in and what I am used to.

I got a car from a dealers a few months back, but I changed makes to what I have been driving for years and I am not happy (nice car, just not happy driving it) and am looking to trade in for my preferred manufacturer.

He doesn't have much choice at the moment, but pne of those is an automatic, which I have always avoided. Ive never even sat in the driving seat of one before now.

My question is to those who have driven both - basically what was your impression? Did you change from manual to automatic and did you prefer it, was it easier to change, etc etc.

[joggerjayne]

ive got one of each.

the auto is much easier to drive ... more relaxing.

and easy to switch between the two.

[Dodger666]

The wife has a Honda Jazz CVT. I love driving it with the 7 speed manual paddle operated gear change selected. However, when in traffic I switch to full auto transmission. Best of both worlds.

[samak]

One disadvantage - you can't push-start an automatic if your battery is flat.

[Hopkirk]

With a catalytic converter you shouldn't push start any car these days, Samak.

[joko]

you could rent one for a few days and try it

[Postdog]

OK just in case anyone is interested, here's an update. After prevaricating (basically hoping he might get something else in) I arranged a test drive in the auto he had, and I have to say I was well impressed. Aside from having a proper handbrake, key and engine noise (my one is so quiet I have actually got out without realising the engine was still running) the driving position is more what I am used to. Plus because it was a model I have driven, all the displays and controls were second nature. Unlike when I test drove the car I have now, driving felt second nature again. Ta to everyone who took the trouble to answer.