When I was in the market to purchase my DeLorean I wanted to get an automatic,(at first). Then I test drove about four different cars including one auto and promptly changed my mind to get a 5 speed mainly because of the "fun factor". However, when I saw the condition of 5518, I couldn't say no. Not only was it in fantasic condition, it was local. I only had to sacrifice the 5 speed to get it. Personally, I think that the maintenance for a 5 speed vs. an automatic both have their advantages and disadvantages. Changing the tranny fluid is a pain but I was able to do it on a lift so it wasn't that bad. Either way, you will still have to change the tranny fluid regardless whether you get a manual or automatic. I don't have to worry about leaking master/slave cylinders, but I do have to worry about a computer governor going south (thankfully mine is new). I don't have to worry about replacing a clutch but I do have to worry about shift solenoids and plates. I didn't have a sore clutch leg after our St. Patrick's Day Parade but I probably have glazed rotors now. Regardless of auto vs. manual, I can guarantee that the DeLorean is a fun and delightful car to own and drive - including all of it's shortcomings! Johnny 5518 AUTOMATIC (and very happy with it) > > A few Deloreans are available for sale that I am considering. I > do > > enjoy driving a manual transmission, but if a mint level automatic > > was for sale, with all else being equal, which car would you > > choose? Is there a benefit to owning an automatic over a 5 > speed? > > I always thought that the auto wouldn't be as sporty or responsive > > as the manual. I don't want to disappoint myself if I buy an > > automatic, and not enjoy the driving experience as much, but then > > again, a really nice automatic in excellent condition may be just > as > > fun. Also, are auto's more rare? Which is harder to maintain? > > Thanks for any input anyone may have on this issue. > > > > Paul To address comments privately to the moderating team, please address: moderators@xxxxxxxxxxx For more info on the list, tech articles, cars for sale see www.dmcnews.com To search the archives or view files, log in at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: dmcnews-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/