Used Manual Cars For Sale

Manual cars for sale with heycar

Manual cars have long been the default choice for UK drivers, and trhere are still more manual cars for sale on heycar than automatics. But times are changing – more and more buyers now opt for the ease and convenience of a used automatic car. That doesn't mean manual cars no longer have a place, though. They're still the most affordable entry point to car ownership, can give you a more involved and entertaining driving experience, and are often simpler and more cost-effective to maintain.

Why buy a used manual car? 

Manual cars tend to be cheaper than their automatic counterparts, both to buy and repair. A new car with a manual gearbox usually costs around £1000 less than the samne car with an automatic transmission, and that saving carries over to the used market, too.

Manual gearboxes are also mechanically simpler, which means there's less to go wrong. They're typically lighter, too, which helps improve performance and fuel economy. If you're a driving enthusiasts, a manual gearbox will give you a deeper connection with the car, more contol in tricky conditions and makes every drive more engaging. That's why many hot hatchbacks and sports cars stick with a manual box. 

What are the best makes and models of manual cars?

If you're after a used manual car, there's still a wide range to choose from. At the affordable end of the market, the Ford Fiesta is hard to beat for value and driving fun, while the Dacia Sandero is another budget-friendly option, and notably more efficient than its automatic equivalent.

Drivers looking for performance and engagement should take a look at the Honda Civic Type R, which has been widely praised for its slick manual gearbox. Sports car fans will love the Mazda MX-5 for its light weight and short, precise shift action, while the Porsche Cayman is a premium choice that still keeps a manual option for the purists.

However, if you're looking at larger family cars or luxury cars, you'll find that manual gearboxes are increasingly rare, and automatics tend to dominate.

What should I look for when buying a used manual car? 

Before you buy a manual car, make sure it suits your lifestyle and driving habits. If you do a lot of urban driving or spend hours in stop-start traffic, an automatic could be more convenient and less tiring. But for rural routes or open roads, a manual gearbox can make driving more rewarding.

When buying used, check for signs of clutch wear, espeically on cars with high mileage or those used mainly in town. SIpping, juddering or a heavy pedal feel can all be signs of a worn clutch or flywheel. Make sure the gearshift feels smooth and accurate – notchy or vague gear changes could hint at issues with the gearbox.

It's worth noting that you won't find any electric cars with manual gearboxes, and very few used hybrid cars offer them either. If you're interested in ultra-low emission driving, automatics could be a better way forward.