In the era of automation, electric powertrains, and self-driving capabilities, the manual transmission is becoming a rare gem in the automotive industry. For many enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the raw, tactile connection of shifting gears manually, giving them full control over the vehicle. As more manufacturers pivot toward electric drivetrains and automatic transmissions, manual cars are becoming harder to find. But for 2024, a few notable automakers are still producing manual transmission vehicles, catering to die-hard driving purists.
This guide takes a deep dive into the top manual transmission cars you can still drive in 2024, across various segments—from sports cars to sedans. These models keep the spirit of the stick shift alive, ensuring that you can still enjoy an engaging driving experience in the modern era.
Why Manual Transmission Still Matters
Before we dive into the list, it’s worth discussing why manual transmission cars are so beloved, especially among driving enthusiasts. Here’s why manual cars still hold a special place in drivers’ hearts:
- Control: A manual gearbox gives you greater control over power delivery. You can choose when to upshift or downshift, optimizing performance to your liking.
- Engagement: Driving a stick shift requires skill and focus, keeping drivers more engaged. Many describe it as a more visceral, rewarding experience compared to automatics.
- Fuel Efficiency: While automatics have closed the gap, manuals traditionally offer better fuel efficiency by giving drivers control over engine revs.
- Simplicity and Reliability: Fewer components, like complex electronic systems, often make manual transmissions more durable and easier to maintain.
- Cost Savings: Manuals are generally cheaper to buy and maintain, although some models have seen price increases as they become rarer.
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has been a poster child for affordable, lightweight sports cars since its debut. Its 2024 model continues to feature a slick 6-speed manual transmission, ensuring that the car’s fun-to-drive nature remains intact. With a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 181 horsepower, the Miata might not be the fastest car on the market, but it’s one of the most balanced and engaging rides you’ll find. The MX-5 Miata’s rear-wheel-drive setup paired with the manual transmission allows you to fully exploit its responsive handling.
- Engine: 2.0-liter inline-four
- Horsepower: 181 hp
- Torque: 151 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: Few cars capture the pure driving essence of the Miata. Its manual gearbox is one of the smoothest in the business, delivering an unforgettable connection between driver and machine.
2. Ford Mustang GT
The 2024 Ford Mustang GT continues to uphold the muscle car legacy with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. For those who want a manual muscle car experience, the Mustang GT remains one of the best options in 2024. With 450 horsepower under the hood and the ability to shift your own gears, the Mustang GT is perfect for enthusiasts seeking performance and an analog driving experience.
- Engine: 5.0-liter V8
- Horsepower: 450 hp
- Torque: 410 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: The Ford Mustang GT offers a thrilling V8 soundtrack and raw power, making it one of the best manual sports cars you can buy in 2024.
3. Porsche 911 (992)
The Porsche 911 is iconic for a reason. In an age of increasing automation and electrification, Porsche has remained committed to offering a manual transmission on the 911, particularly in the Carrera T and 911 GT3 models. The 7-speed manual gearbox in the 2024 911 provides precision shifting, ensuring the car retains its legendary driving dynamics. Whether you’re hitting the track or enjoying a weekend drive, the 911’s manual transmission transforms the driving experience into something more immersive.
- Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six (Carrera T), 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (GT3)
- Horsepower: 379-502 hp (depending on the model)
- Torque: 331-346 lb-ft
- Transmission: 7-speed manual (Carrera T), 6-speed manual (GT3)
- Why It’s Awesome: The Porsche 911 with a manual gearbox is the ultimate purist’s sports car, blending everyday usability with track-ready performance.
4. Chevrolet Camaro SS
Despite rumors of its potential demise, the Chevrolet Camaro remains a potent option for manual transmission lovers. The 2024 Camaro SS comes with a 6.2-liter V8 engine, generating 455 horsepower, and is available with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Camaro SS, like the Mustang, offers a rear-wheel-drive, tire-smoking experience that’s enhanced by the control and engagement of shifting your own gears.
- Engine: 6.2-liter V8
- Horsepower: 455 hp
- Torque: 455 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: The Camaro SS is the epitome of American muscle with a manual gearbox. Its high-performance V8 engine, combined with a stick shift, makes for a thrilling driving experience.
5. Honda Civic Type R
The 2024 Honda Civic Type R is one of the hottest hatchbacks on the market, and it comes exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. Known for its agility, the Type R features a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that pumps out 315 horsepower. The manual gearbox is geared toward performance, with short, crisp throws that make shifting a pleasure. Its front-wheel-drive layout may seem less traditional for enthusiasts, but the engineering behind the Type R makes it a force to be reckoned with on both the track and the street.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
- Horsepower: 315 hp
- Torque: 310 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: The Civic Type R combines practicality and performance in a way that few other hatchbacks can, and its manual transmission is central to its appeal.
6. Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ
These twin sports cars continue to offer one of the best affordable driving experiences available. The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ share the same chassis and drivetrain, featuring a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Both cars are rear-wheel drive and designed for driving enthusiasts who appreciate lightweight, well-balanced handling. In 2024, both models maintain their purist appeal by sticking with a traditional manual gearbox.
- Engine: 2.4-liter flat-four
- Horsepower: 228 hp
- Torque: 184 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: The GR86 and BRZ are some of the most affordable rear-wheel-drive sports cars on the market, and their manual transmissions offer a direct, engaging driving experience.
7. Nissan Z
The Nissan Z has returned in 2024, bringing a 6-speed manual transmission with it. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, the Z produces 400 horsepower and is a modern take on the brand’s rich sports car heritage. The manual transmission complements the Z’s rear-wheel-drive layout, giving it the feel of a true driver’s car. For those who value Nissan’s Z lineage, the 2024 model doesn’t disappoint, especially with its manual option.
- Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6
- Horsepower: 400 hp
- Torque: 350 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: The return of the Nissan Z with a manual transmission is a blessing for fans of the classic Z cars, combining retro styling with modern performance.
8. Jeep Wrangler
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler remains one of the few SUVs to offer a manual transmission. Paired with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, the Wrangler’s 6-speed manual transmission enhances its off-road capabilities, giving drivers more control over their driving in rough terrains. While most off-roaders have transitioned to automatic gearboxes, the Wrangler stays true to its roots, making it a perfect choice for those who love to manually control their adventures.
- Engine: 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 285 hp
- Torque: 260 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Why It’s Awesome: The Wrangler’s manual transmission is ideal for off-road enthusiasts who want total control over their vehicle when tackling rugged terrain.
Conclusion: The Manual Lives On
While manual transmission cars are becoming increasingly scarce, 2024 still offers some excellent options for those who refuse to give up the stick shift. Whether you’re seeking the raw muscle of a V8 engine, the finesse of a balanced sports car, or even the control needed for off-roading, there’s a manual transmission car for you. From the Porsche 911 to the Ford Mustang GT, these vehicles prove that for some, driving is still an art form best enjoyed with three pedals.
If you’re a driving purist, now might be the perfect time to grab one of these gems before manuals become a thing of the past.