What is the difference between an automatic and a manual transmission?

The primary difference between an automatic and a manual transmission is the way in which they change gears. In a manual transmission, the driver must manually engage the clutch and shift gears by moving a gear stick or shift lever. In contrast, an automatic transmission uses a torque converter or clutch to shift gears automatically.

While manual transmissions are often considered more engaging and provide more control to the driver, they can be more difficult to learn and can be more physically demanding to operate, especially in heavy traffic. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, are generally considered easier to use and require less effort from the driver. They can also be more fuel-efficient than manual transmissions in certain situations.