In an era dominated by electrification and automation, the manual sports car is rapidly becoming a relic of the past. As the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles, the allure of speed is no longer synonymous with luxury. Enthusiasts are now seeking unique experiences, often found in the tactile engagement of a manual transmission. However, with tightening emissions regulations and a new generation of drivers unfamiliar with gear-shifting, the days of manual sports cars may be numbered.
Despite these challenges, several brands remain committed to preserving the manual transmission. Currently, there are 16 sports cars available in Australia with this feature. Notably, Porsche offers a no-cost manual option on their 911, while Honda’s Civic Type R is exclusively manual. BMW, Hyundai, and Toyota each have three manual sports cars in their lineup, but the question remains: for how long?
The Manual Sports Cars Still Available
While the future of manual transmissions is uncertain, enthusiasts can still find joy in a select group of vehicles. Here is a detailed look at the sports cars that continue to offer a manual experience in Australia.
BMW’s Manual Lineup
- BMW M2 – Starting at AUD$117,700 plus on-road costs, the M2 features a 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-6 engine, producing 338 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds with a 6-speed manual transmission.
- BMW M3 – Priced from AUD$155,760, this model offers a 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-6 engine with 353 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. It reaches 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.
- BMW M4 – Starting at AUD$162,140, the M4 shares its engine with the M3, providing the same power and performance.
Iconic American Muscle
- Ford Mustang – With a starting price of AUD$78,990, the Mustang remains the only manual V8 on sale in Australia. Its 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine delivers 347 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.6 seconds.
Japanese Engineering Excellence
- Honda Civic Type R – Exclusively manual, this model is priced from AUD$79,000. It features a 2.0-litre turbo inline-4 engine, producing 235 kW and 420 Nm, reaching 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
- Subaru BRZ – Starting at AUD$43,790, the BRZ offers a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated flat-4 engine with 174 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque.
- Toyota GR86 – Priced from AUD$43,240, the GR86 shares its engine and specifications with the Subaru BRZ.
European Precision and Performance
- Porsche 911 (Carrera T & GT3) – Starting from AUD$306,800, the Carrera T offers a 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-6 engine, while the GT3, priced from AUD$446,700, features a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-6 engine.
- Lotus Emira – With a starting price of AUD$252,990, the Emira offers a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, producing 298 kW and 420 Nm.
The Future of Manual Transmissions
The persistence of manual transmissions in sports cars is a testament to the enduring appeal of a more engaging driving experience. However, the pressures of emissions regulations and changing consumer preferences suggest that their future is uncertain. As manufacturers continue to innovate, the manual transmission may become a niche offering, reserved for special editions and enthusiast models.
For now, the manual sports cars available in Australia provide a unique opportunity for drivers to enjoy a more connected and visceral driving experience. Whether this list will shrink or evolve in the coming years remains to be seen, but for enthusiasts, the joy of manual driving is far from over.
