I was referring to the known power transfer efficiency of the mechanical Vs the hydraulic drive train.

A boy racer will always get minimum economy for maximum pose value with either type of transmission.

The thing I really miss on my new vehicle is cruise controll. Although it is a base model with plastic wheel trims, no distracting running/front fog lights. It has, as mentioned earlier equipment now classed as standard for a middle of the road car. These aids give a fuel efficiency near or exceeding the manufacturers figures.

Town and city driving usually gives around the 58mpg, while going on a run can give 70mpg. Which I am well pleased with.

I am hoping when we change in around 18 months that I will go for a semi- auto box and choose model of car but the se. Things have moved on from my last auto box car. A P reg yellow austin allegro 3 semi auto. ;-)

My first auto was 1980 and I'd never go back.

My brother had a bubble car that didn't have a reverse gear. It could be awkward getting out sometimes as the only door was at the front.

I am a little worried that in the photo in the link the only nag the driver would get is to put the seat belt on. She doesn't look to me as if she can see the road over the dashboard.

Anyone who drives in a big busy city on a daily basis - as I do - knows that automatic transmissions help you to be a better, safer, more considerate driver

Anyone who has automatic transmission and has experienced both may believe this to be the case. I wouldn't know it to be so because I've only ever driven vehicles with a manual gearbox.

I would suggest that drivers with expensive cars tend to be successful types with busy schedules who aren't the best at exhibiting consideration for others. Just as well that many drive automatics..........if they had to wrestle with a gear lever they would get really stressed and take it out on the rest of us.