Automatic or Manual

[aardvark]

How do automatic 240 and 260's compare to the manuals? I assume the manuals are probably more popular but how do they compare with performance, resale, drivability etc.

[Nigel Mulvey]

I've had both and they're both bloody fast. I really like the "kick down" in autos and you can't beat an auto for Sydney City driving. However, being a manual fan from way back I prefer them for a number of reasons.

If you're looking for a z my advice would be grab what you can as long as it is in good condition, don't knock back an immacualte car just because it is an auto (or vice versa depending on your preference). You can always change later which a very easy process.

Good luck!

[Alfadog]

I really dislike old automatics. New ones are pretty good when it comes to performance, but old ones really suck.

I was driven in a 2+2 auto when looking for my Z, and frankly the difference between it and a manual 2 seater was astounding.

It all depends on if you want a sports car or a cruisemobile...

(admittedly, as we pulled out of the driveway of his B&B with the stereo on and the open sunroof open, this metallic blue 2+2 with immaculate tan interior really did make me smile)

[Zedrally]

I got both, however you can't compare them as Alfa thinks.

The 240 is manual and goes like the clappers, so does the 260, but remember it is a 260 2+2 and is heavy as, also is running with original, but overhauled carbies.

It's like comparing apples and pears.

Anyone with a auto & manual 240 out there?

[26ounce]

I'd second the comments by alfadog. My Z has the old 3 speed auto and I can tell you that it is not a performance component. Very slow off the line and you won't win many of the traffic light take offs.

At the time I bought it it was the best 2 seater I could find. It will be converted to manual during the staged rebuild I'm doing.

[Gee]

I just recently converted a 240 from auto to manual. The difference is huge performance wise, however if you want a cruise car the auto aint too bad I guess. Without a high-stall torque converter it'll never be a ball-tearer though..

[aardvark]

How hard ( labour, parts availability etc) and how expensive would it be to convert an auto to manual?

A few of my friends probably have the skills to do it but I might have to pay someone.

[Zpeed]

labour is pretty easy, hardest part is putting in the clutch, best option is to use the who pedal configuration from that car you are gettting it from....

i had a friend who did it, with parts from a 2+2 parts car, and took him a day or 2, if you have all the parts or possible a spare 2+2 parts car, cheap these days... then you should be aright..