GT500 Automatic
Bullitt Member
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It's just a cobra thing, when's the last time you saw a cobra with an automatic from the factory? Exactly, never. They need to keep it that way and if you want to get rid of it that much, you can alway spend your own money to put your own tranny in..
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Joined: February 24, 2005
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Originally posted by RaGsHoCkEy88@April 24, 2005, 9:18 AM
u guys do understand that they wanna keep this car under barely $40,000......if they have something like paddle shifters were talking very high prices. this isnt a BMW, nor do we want it to be like one. its a shelby GT 500 and its back for the 1st time in years. i say 6 speed and 6 speed only just like the the past cobra's (03-04's)
u guys do understand that they wanna keep this car under barely $40,000......if they have something like paddle shifters were talking very high prices. this isnt a BMW, nor do we want it to be like one. its a shelby GT 500 and its back for the 1st time in years. i say 6 speed and 6 speed only just like the the past cobra's (03-04's)
Having a paddle shifter or not, won't impact the price in such a way that it won't be the same great car for the same little amount of money...
relaxxxxx...
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Joined: February 24, 2005
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Originally posted by dfhurleydude182@April 24, 2005, 2:50 PM
It's just a cobra thing, when's the last time you saw a cobra with an automatic from the factory? Exactly, never. They need to keep it that way and if you want to get rid of it that much, you can alway spend your own money to put your own tranny in..
It's just a cobra thing, when's the last time you saw a cobra with an automatic from the factory? Exactly, never. They need to keep it that way and if you want to get rid of it that much, you can alway spend your own money to put your own tranny in..
If we judge what would be good in a car by the fact wether it was offered or not in a previous model, probably at this time we would still be going around with a Ford model T...
Can't stop progress...
- yes, you can always spend your money to put whatever tranny you want in your car, but I personally would prefer to have it done by Ford so that if anything goes wrong I can always count on the warranty...
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Joined: March 31, 2005
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Originally posted by dfhurleydude182@April 24, 2005, 11:50 AM
It's just a cobra thing, when's the last time you saw a cobra with an automatic from the factory? Exactly, never. They need to keep it that way and if you want to get rid of it that much, you can alway spend your own money to put your own tranny in..
It's just a cobra thing, when's the last time you saw a cobra with an automatic from the factory? Exactly, never. They need to keep it that way and if you want to get rid of it that much, you can alway spend your own money to put your own tranny in..
GT Member
Joined: March 28, 2005
Posts: 104
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My sister drives an 04 GT with a 5 spd manual transmission! She couldn't understand why anyone would want an automatic. She was going to buy a Mach 1, but it had an automatic so she bought a GT convertible instead.
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda. We're talking Shelby Cobra here folks. Do you want people who don't know or care enough about driving to learn to manage a clutch to be driving these awesome beasts on the highway? Most people who drive automatics see automobiles as appliances. To them an automatic is an added feature kind of like an ice maker or a water dispenser in the door of a refrigerator. They just don't get it.
Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500. (Wouldn't it have been easier for Michelangelo just to spray paint the Sistine Chapel? Why go to all that trouble? And if you're planning on being sophomoric - yes! To me a well shifted gear is a work of art.)
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda. We're talking Shelby Cobra here folks. Do you want people who don't know or care enough about driving to learn to manage a clutch to be driving these awesome beasts on the highway? Most people who drive automatics see automobiles as appliances. To them an automatic is an added feature kind of like an ice maker or a water dispenser in the door of a refrigerator. They just don't get it.
Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500. (Wouldn't it have been easier for Michelangelo just to spray paint the Sistine Chapel? Why go to all that trouble? And if you're planning on being sophomoric - yes! To me a well shifted gear is a work of art.)
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
Thread Starter
Mach 1 Member
Joined: December 28, 2004
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OK Auburnman, you or me. This Gisarm guy, despite the fact that he writes well, needs a comeback from the "someone" that wants an automatic. Apparently it's a "ludicrous" thought.
This'll be short for now. Firstly, there's more than "someone" out there who's chosen to go with an auto option in the polls. In fact, only 37.3% of the votes have gone to the "6 sp. manual only" choice. That leaves about 63% in favour of the option for an automatic of some sort.
Secondly Gisarm, you're a blatant sexist despite your attempts to hide it amidst those manly baseball related metaphors. And at the risk of sounding as ridiculous as you, I have to say that your comments are just......ridiculous ("stupid" actually comes to mind).
And lastly before I waste any more of my time on your narrow mindedness, there are THOUSANDS of us with auto's that would object to your inferences that our cars are simply "appliances". Auto's can be driven just as adeptly as a manual if need be and as many people have already stated, it's a question of having a choice between the two tranny's, not what the car should or shouldn't be built with.
So.....being one of the 37.3% MINORITY who thinks manual is the only way to go.....well go ahead and buy it! But don't forget to check off the "cupholder delete" option, seeing as manuals don't come with those water & ice maker outlets that us auto people crave so dearly.
This'll be short for now. Firstly, there's more than "someone" out there who's chosen to go with an auto option in the polls. In fact, only 37.3% of the votes have gone to the "6 sp. manual only" choice. That leaves about 63% in favour of the option for an automatic of some sort.
Secondly Gisarm, you're a blatant sexist despite your attempts to hide it amidst those manly baseball related metaphors. And at the risk of sounding as ridiculous as you, I have to say that your comments are just......ridiculous ("stupid" actually comes to mind).
And lastly before I waste any more of my time on your narrow mindedness, there are THOUSANDS of us with auto's that would object to your inferences that our cars are simply "appliances". Auto's can be driven just as adeptly as a manual if need be and as many people have already stated, it's a question of having a choice between the two tranny's, not what the car should or shouldn't be built with.
So.....being one of the 37.3% MINORITY who thinks manual is the only way to go.....well go ahead and buy it! But don't forget to check off the "cupholder delete" option, seeing as manuals don't come with those water & ice maker outlets that us auto people crave so dearly.
V6 Member
Joined: March 27, 2005
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Well said Mark.
Look guys (you minority that want the Manual ONLY), we have all heard your opinions as to why YOU don't want an automatic. OK, so don't buy a freakin auto. But why are you trying to convince the rest of us to do the same??? Why do you care if I buy my car with the auto (from your statements, it's clear you would think less of me and my car, but who gives a shiite what you think.) Guess what?...your opinions are only valid for YOU, so get off your high horse.
Besides, I don't think anyone here is saying Ford should put an auto in the GT500 as a standard feature and not offer a manual. Rather, what we have been trying to get into your thick skulls :bang: is that although a manual should come standard, it would be nice to see an auto (or SMG) as an option. That's how the original Shelby Mustangs came...and so what if the recent Cobras didn't have an auto option. The recent Cobras didn't have the Supercooler technology (ala Lightning concept), but I bet no one would complain if Ford put that in the GT500, right.
Look guys (you minority that want the Manual ONLY), we have all heard your opinions as to why YOU don't want an automatic. OK, so don't buy a freakin auto. But why are you trying to convince the rest of us to do the same??? Why do you care if I buy my car with the auto (from your statements, it's clear you would think less of me and my car, but who gives a shiite what you think.) Guess what?...your opinions are only valid for YOU, so get off your high horse.
Besides, I don't think anyone here is saying Ford should put an auto in the GT500 as a standard feature and not offer a manual. Rather, what we have been trying to get into your thick skulls :bang: is that although a manual should come standard, it would be nice to see an auto (or SMG) as an option. That's how the original Shelby Mustangs came...and so what if the recent Cobras didn't have an auto option. The recent Cobras didn't have the Supercooler technology (ala Lightning concept), but I bet no one would complain if Ford put that in the GT500, right.
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The thing I crack up over is the smart-donkey's, that think driving a stick makes you more of a man, etc. Ferrari, Formula-1, BMW, etc., those sequentials are all for woossies. Uh huh. And synchro-rings are for woossies too; let's go back to the days where we all had to double-clutch and manually mesh gears like real men. And electric starters are for putzes who waste weight -- let's put a hand crank on there, like real men.
Some of us think progress is making a car that shifts faster and is a lot easier to drive in traffic. Others want to remember the good ol' days -- but only selectively. (Like forgetting that the first cobras had autos). My current car is a stick, as have been 95% of the ones I've owned. But my next one is probably going to be an SMG type where I can have the best of both worlds (fast shifts, good control, and convenience when I need it). If Ford doesn't make it in the Cobra, maybe I'll go to a Vette, M3, or Audi, since they choose to cater to their customers, instead of trying to cram some ill thought out religion down their throats. IMHO, of course....
Some of us think progress is making a car that shifts faster and is a lot easier to drive in traffic. Others want to remember the good ol' days -- but only selectively. (Like forgetting that the first cobras had autos). My current car is a stick, as have been 95% of the ones I've owned. But my next one is probably going to be an SMG type where I can have the best of both worlds (fast shifts, good control, and convenience when I need it). If Ford doesn't make it in the Cobra, maybe I'll go to a Vette, M3, or Audi, since they choose to cater to their customers, instead of trying to cram some ill thought out religion down their throats. IMHO, of course....
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Originally posted by Gisarm@April 24, 2005, 5:00 PM
My sister drives an 04 GT with a 5 spd manual transmission! She couldn't understand why anyone would want an automatic. She was going to buy a Mach 1, but it had an automatic so she bought a GT convertible instead.
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda. Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500. (Wouldn't it have been easier for Michelangelo just to spray paint the Sistine Chapel? Why go to all that trouble? And if you're planning on being sophomoric - yes! To me a well shifted gear is a work of art.)
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
My sister drives an 04 GT with a 5 spd manual transmission! She couldn't understand why anyone would want an automatic. She was going to buy a Mach 1, but it had an automatic so she bought a GT convertible instead.
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda. Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500. (Wouldn't it have been easier for Michelangelo just to spray paint the Sistine Chapel? Why go to all that trouble? And if you're planning on being sophomoric - yes! To me a well shifted gear is a work of art.)
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
1. I drive a REAL 67 Shelby GT500 with an automatic-
Should I buy a dress to wear?
2. Most race cars are automatics with paddle shift- F1, Indy, Top Fuel exc exc
Every one knows a properly built auto is faster then a stick shift
3. Automatics are for soccer moms?
Where are you located- I would love to show you my tail lights while wearing a dress in my soccer mom car with the baby seat in the back
4. The funny thing is, the Mach 1 auto would beat the 5 speed convertible she bought in a drag race
My daily driver is a 5 speed car BTW-
I love banging gears as much as the next guy- but just because if I were to buy the car, I would end up getting a stick shift does not mean I would not want an automatic version offered- it just makes sense to offer an automatic- as I know several people who would only buy it as an automatic-
I apologize for getting so aggressive here, but I think we are forgetting that Carrol Shelby built Shelbys with automatics back in the 60's-
and as an owner of an ORIGNAL GT500 automatic, I will offer this to all people who say no automatic-
Come for a ride in my car and tell me its not a real Shelby- tell me its a soccer mom car-
Maybe I should just sell it for a HOnda Civic with a 5 speed- that would make me a man right?
Come for a ride in my 66 fast back with a built fuel injected supercharged motor which is sitting in front of a Lentech-
Go for one ride and if you still think its a soccer mom car- then- well you will be the one out of countless others who seem to think otherwise-
:bang:
Shelby GT500 Member
Joined: February 1, 2004
Posts: 2,508
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From: Hurricane,wv/Cinn,OH,Mooresville,NC
Originally posted by gnn60gt500+April 25, 2005, 8:03 AM--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(gnn60gt500 @ April 25, 2005, 8:03 AM)</div><div class='quotemain'><!--QuoteBegin-Gisarm@April 24, 2005, 5:00 PM
My sister drives an 04 GT with a 5 spd manual transmission! She couldn't understand why anyone would want an automatic. She was going to buy a Mach 1, but it had an automatic so she bought a GT convertible instead.
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda. Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500. (Wouldn't it have been easier for Michelangelo just to spray paint the Sistine Chapel? Why go to all that trouble? And if you're planning on being sophomoric - yes! To me a well shifted gear is a work of art.)
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
My sister drives an 04 GT with a 5 spd manual transmission! She couldn't understand why anyone would want an automatic. She was going to buy a Mach 1, but it had an automatic so she bought a GT convertible instead.
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda. Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500. (Wouldn't it have been easier for Michelangelo just to spray paint the Sistine Chapel? Why go to all that trouble? And if you're planning on being sophomoric - yes! To me a well shifted gear is a work of art.)
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
1. I drive a REAL 67 Shelby GT500 with an automatic-
Should I buy a dress to wear?
2. Most race cars are automatics with paddle shift- F1, Indy, Top Fuel exc exc
Every one knows a properly built auto is faster then a stick shift
3. Automatics are for soccer moms?
Where are you located- I would love to show you my tail lights while wearing a dress in my soccer mom car with the baby seat in the back
4. The funny thing is, the Mach 1 auto would beat the 5 speed convertible she bought in a drag race
My daily driver is a 5 speed car BTW-
I love banging gears as much as the next guy- but just because if I were to buy the car, I would end up getting a stick shift does not mean I would not want an automatic version offered- it just makes sense to offer an automatic- as I know several people who would only buy it as an automatic-
I apologize for getting so aggressive here, but I think we are forgetting that Carrol Shelby built Shelbys with automatics back in the 60's-
and as an owner of an ORIGNAL GT500 automatic, I will offer this to all people who say no automatic-
Come for a ride in my car and tell me its not a real Shelby- tell me its a soccer mom car-
Maybe I should just sell it for a HOnda Civic with a 5 speed- that would make me a man right?
Come for a ride in my 66 fast back with a built fuel injected supercharged motor which is sitting in front of a Lentech-
Go for one ride and if you still think its a soccer mom car- then- well you will be the one out of countless others who seem to think otherwise-
:bang:
[/b][/quote]
I got Mach1 auto. I breat thoese GTs 5speeds all the time and the BWMs to
Bullitt Member
Joined: February 24, 2005
Posts: 347
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Originally posted by dke@April 25, 2005, 9:21 AM
But my next one is probably going to be an SMG type where I can have the best of both worlds (fast shifts, good control, and convenience when I need it). If Ford doesn't make it in the Cobra, maybe I'll go to a Vette, M3, or Audi, since they choose to cater to their customers, instead of trying to cram some ill thought out religion down their throats. IMHO, of course....
But my next one is probably going to be an SMG type where I can have the best of both worlds (fast shifts, good control, and convenience when I need it). If Ford doesn't make it in the Cobra, maybe I'll go to a Vette, M3, or Audi, since they choose to cater to their customers, instead of trying to cram some ill thought out religion down their throats. IMHO, of course....
Two thumbs up !
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Joined: February 24, 2005
Posts: 347
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My sister drives an 04 GT with a 5 spd manual transmission! She couldn't understand why anyone would want an automatic. She was going to buy a Mach 1, but it had an automatic so she bought a GT convertible instead.
The meaning of this phrase of yours is indeed misterious...
Look I can understand an automatic transmission if you are a soccer mom driving a minivan or a Honda.
We're talking Shelby Cobra here folks. Do you want people who don't know or care enough about driving to learn to manage a clutch to be driving these awesome beasts on the highway? Most people who drive automatics see automobiles as appliances. To them an automatic is an added feature kind of like an ice maker or a water dispenser in the door of a refrigerator. They just don't get it.
Personally, I will buy the Cobra ONLY if it is offered with the possibility to have it with an auto tranny at least, hopefully they will listen to my prayers and offer an SMG-like tranny, that would be the best.
Who the heck are you to judge the entire population of drivers that like to have auto transmissions ? Basically with this phrase about people that drive cars w/auto you insulted every person in this forum that owns a Mustang GT w/auto, like ME. Sonny, believe me, you know nothing about me or anybody else and just the fact that people post in this forum about their beloved cars, it should show a normal person that people care about their cars and love their Mustangs. But you don't seem to be intelligent enough to understand this, am I right ??? GROW UP a bit and come back, allright ? Thank you. :angry:
Some of us still get it. Manual transmissions are about really driving not just sitting behind a wheel and being admired. Ask yourself why professional drivers don't race with automatic transmissions - your answer will be the same reason there shouldn't be an automatic in the GT 500.
Surprise, surprise: in FORMULA ONE, the racing competion with the highest level of technology in the world, SEMIAUTOMATIC transmission (call them SMG-style, paddleshifters or whatever you like...) have been in use since the late 80s, by ALL friggin' teams...
I hope "some of you still will get it" this time...WAKE UP !!!!!!! :angry:
Truthfully (and to paraphrase what Mickey Mantle said about Pete Rose) if I wanted a Shelby GT 500 with an automatic I'd wear a dress. (But that's not really correct because even my very feminine sister understands why you simply cannot put an automatic transmission in a car like this. She and I are both 41 by the way; we aren't kids nor are we geriatrics. And if you can fathom why Mantle preferred to hit monster homeruns rather than little one base dingers like Rose then you can understand why the manual is preferable to the automatic.)
Again with your sister...who cares what she likes...
My how I do run on. This is my first post by the way; I didn't feel any need to comment until I saw something as ludicrous as someone wanting an automatic Shelby GT 500. (It's in the same category as an electric abacus.) That mandated a reply.
If you are really 41, which I personally doubt, you should dedicate some of your time to try to discard these idiotic prejudices you have shown in your post...
Oh and by the way, look at the results of this poll and then think who is ludicrous here...
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Joined: April 25, 2005
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It seems you "pro auto" guys don't take criticism to well. You say the world should be full of choices yet every single post which has stated they prefer a manual only option has been attacked.
I'm all for certain choices, but where do we draw the line? Do we offer a station-wagon model of the GT500? How about a 8-track player - I'm sure it was an option at one time right? Maybe Ford should offer an option to get a urinal built into the driver's seat. Never know.....might be someone out there with bladder control problems - why should they be prevented from enjoying the power of a GT500 just because of a medical issue?
Now all sarcasm aside, don't assume I am a manual only guy. Yes, I prefer a manual, and given the option I would NEVER choose anything else (however I do currently drive an AT because my FX4 F150 didn't offer an MT option), but there are those among us who don't have the ability of driving one because of medical issues etc, and who I am to tell them they can't drive a GT500 because they lost their left foot in a PTO accident back in 1972?
Truthfully, I think the spirit of the GT500 dictates it be a manual only car....not because it is the "macho" thing to do, but it sets the car apart from everything else. It tells people that this car isn't for everyone, and that it takes actual skill to drive. Now before you attack me, re-read where I said I realize not everyone can drive a manual because of other limitations.....I still believe that, and yes I even understand the early Shelbys offered auto trannys as an option, however I wanted to explain my view - my opinion.
Now the spirit of the car and the demand for the car are two different things. We have to accept that there are number of number of people out there who can't drive a manual. I'm not talking about those who choose not to, but those who physically can't. The question is, are there really that many of those types of people out there? If this is truly a limited production car, I'm guessing they will sell them regardless of the AT option, so perhaps in Ford's mind, it is simply easier to roll it out as a MT only knowing they don't have to retool the line for different tranny combos.
However, if this car is sold in mass quantities, surely it would be in Ford's best interests to offer a AT option. I personally would never even consider the purchase of such a combination, but hey.....I'm only thinking of buying one while Ford is thinking of selling thousands and thousands per year. You do the math.
I will however openly admit at one point I uttered the phrase "for God's sake get a manual. Automatics are for chicks and amputees", but I must add a disclaimer so you understand I was joking. It seems to me a few of us on this board don't accept sarcasm or recognize humor very well.
The bottom line - if I had to make the final call I think I would go MT only. Not because I am anti-democratic, but because I think it sends a message about the type of driver this car deserves. Maybe that isn't fair to those who can't drive one, but then again life isn't always fair, and as much as I like to include everyone - it isn't possible, thus I have to use the law of averages. A few people will be left out, a few others will be happier knowing not everyone can drive the car they shelled out 40k (or more) for. It is truly a balancing act....one I am glad is being handled by Ford rather than myself.
:drive:
/go go magic flame retardant goggles
I'm all for certain choices, but where do we draw the line? Do we offer a station-wagon model of the GT500? How about a 8-track player - I'm sure it was an option at one time right? Maybe Ford should offer an option to get a urinal built into the driver's seat. Never know.....might be someone out there with bladder control problems - why should they be prevented from enjoying the power of a GT500 just because of a medical issue?
Now all sarcasm aside, don't assume I am a manual only guy. Yes, I prefer a manual, and given the option I would NEVER choose anything else (however I do currently drive an AT because my FX4 F150 didn't offer an MT option), but there are those among us who don't have the ability of driving one because of medical issues etc, and who I am to tell them they can't drive a GT500 because they lost their left foot in a PTO accident back in 1972?
Truthfully, I think the spirit of the GT500 dictates it be a manual only car....not because it is the "macho" thing to do, but it sets the car apart from everything else. It tells people that this car isn't for everyone, and that it takes actual skill to drive. Now before you attack me, re-read where I said I realize not everyone can drive a manual because of other limitations.....I still believe that, and yes I even understand the early Shelbys offered auto trannys as an option, however I wanted to explain my view - my opinion.
Now the spirit of the car and the demand for the car are two different things. We have to accept that there are number of number of people out there who can't drive a manual. I'm not talking about those who choose not to, but those who physically can't. The question is, are there really that many of those types of people out there? If this is truly a limited production car, I'm guessing they will sell them regardless of the AT option, so perhaps in Ford's mind, it is simply easier to roll it out as a MT only knowing they don't have to retool the line for different tranny combos.
However, if this car is sold in mass quantities, surely it would be in Ford's best interests to offer a AT option. I personally would never even consider the purchase of such a combination, but hey.....I'm only thinking of buying one while Ford is thinking of selling thousands and thousands per year. You do the math.
I will however openly admit at one point I uttered the phrase "for God's sake get a manual. Automatics are for chicks and amputees", but I must add a disclaimer so you understand I was joking. It seems to me a few of us on this board don't accept sarcasm or recognize humor very well.
The bottom line - if I had to make the final call I think I would go MT only. Not because I am anti-democratic, but because I think it sends a message about the type of driver this car deserves. Maybe that isn't fair to those who can't drive one, but then again life isn't always fair, and as much as I like to include everyone - it isn't possible, thus I have to use the law of averages. A few people will be left out, a few others will be happier knowing not everyone can drive the car they shelled out 40k (or more) for. It is truly a balancing act....one I am glad is being handled by Ford rather than myself.
:drive:
/go go magic flame retardant goggles
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That's a pretty silly post. We've explained why WE want SVG/Auto's, and rebutted the guys that attacked auto's as being for people in dresses, or not serious drivers. Some facts, like some Auto's are faster in the 1/4, may not be popular, but they are facts. That's not an attack, just a fact. We aren't talking about station wagons or urinals, we're talking about one of the most popular options ANY car make can put on a car (what kind of transmission). Not one auto person had said remove stick.
As for false exclusivity, like limiting the car to only "real drivers", ergo, those who want stick, why not require a chomosome test so only men can drive it? Why would Ford want to limit the market/customer base? I thought the objective was to sell cars, not cram some anachronistic car-religion down customers throats? (Just my opinion, or response to yours -- no offense intented, seriously).
As for sarcasm/humor, it works better in email if you do something to indicate it is such. (<joke> <kidding> <sarcasm>). And sarcasm implies you aren't really serious -- but you serious in intent, you just overstated the wording slightly. I only agree with one thing you said, limiting does send a message. Just a different message than you think. It said, "we can't compete with the Germans or other American companies", as they can all offer sportscars with autos.
As for false exclusivity, like limiting the car to only "real drivers", ergo, those who want stick, why not require a chomosome test so only men can drive it? Why would Ford want to limit the market/customer base? I thought the objective was to sell cars, not cram some anachronistic car-religion down customers throats? (Just my opinion, or response to yours -- no offense intented, seriously).
As for sarcasm/humor, it works better in email if you do something to indicate it is such. (<joke> <kidding> <sarcasm>). And sarcasm implies you aren't really serious -- but you serious in intent, you just overstated the wording slightly. I only agree with one thing you said, limiting does send a message. Just a different message than you think. It said, "we can't compete with the Germans or other American companies", as they can all offer sportscars with autos.
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dke - you may be speaking of "popular options" but other posters aren't so specific. Popular options in modern cars include heated seats, rear seat DVD entertainment systems, remote start, sunroofs, XM radio, and Navigation systems.....none of which I have seen in the GT500.
Why is that? Your guess is as good as mine, but I assume it has to do with them wanting a bare essentials vehicle without a lot of the creature comforts that other cars have. (And yes, to a degree I consider an automatic to be a creature comfort, not an essential).
As far as chromosome tests....please don't assume I think only men can be "real drivers"....quite the contrary. My idea of "limiting" the type of driver has nothing to do with gender, but certainly if Ford limits production they simply won't need to produce an AT option.....that is simply economics.
Finally, as far as Ford not competing with the Germans or other American companies.....if you honestly beleive that then perhaps you should be shopping elsewhere. I don't think that is the case for a second, because I think Ford is simply targeting a specific core consumer. GM knows the average age of a Vette owner, thus they include an AT option to capture them. Mercedes also knows the average consumer of an AMG is an upper middle class to upper class male who is probably so busy reading their blackberry, sipping their latte with non-fat milk, and talking on their cell-phone that they wouldn't ever have time to shift anyway!
(Oops....seem to have missed the <sarcasm> tags again....guess you have to figure this one out on your own)
Why is that? Your guess is as good as mine, but I assume it has to do with them wanting a bare essentials vehicle without a lot of the creature comforts that other cars have. (And yes, to a degree I consider an automatic to be a creature comfort, not an essential).
As far as chromosome tests....please don't assume I think only men can be "real drivers"....quite the contrary. My idea of "limiting" the type of driver has nothing to do with gender, but certainly if Ford limits production they simply won't need to produce an AT option.....that is simply economics.
Finally, as far as Ford not competing with the Germans or other American companies.....if you honestly beleive that then perhaps you should be shopping elsewhere. I don't think that is the case for a second, because I think Ford is simply targeting a specific core consumer. GM knows the average age of a Vette owner, thus they include an AT option to capture them. Mercedes also knows the average consumer of an AMG is an upper middle class to upper class male who is probably so busy reading their blackberry, sipping their latte with non-fat milk, and talking on their cell-phone that they wouldn't ever have time to shift anyway!
(Oops....seem to have missed the <sarcasm> tags again....guess you have to figure this one out on your own)
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Seven-
And what will be the average age of a Shelby owner?
Ford limits it- (production)
Only old man with old man money can afford it- just like Vettes- that means you need an auto because dealer marks it up so much like Ford GT
Ford does not limit it (production)
If it is not a limited production car, then offer it with an automatic because then the car will not be as special
Besides Ford all ready said it will built as many as people will buy-
which means the car will be all over the place so who cares if some are autos
And what will be the average age of a Shelby owner?
Ford limits it- (production)
Only old man with old man money can afford it- just like Vettes- that means you need an auto because dealer marks it up so much like Ford GT
Ford does not limit it (production)
If it is not a limited production car, then offer it with an automatic because then the car will not be as special
Besides Ford all ready said it will built as many as people will buy-
which means the car will be all over the place so who cares if some are autos
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Originally posted by gnn60gt500@April 25, 2005, 1:32 PM
Seven-
And what will be the average age of a Shelby owner?
Seven-
And what will be the average age of a Shelby owner?
I sense we will see it though. I could be wrong, but considering how there is so much competition in the marketplace right now, I just don't see them limiting their sales simply to keep an "image" of a true muscle car.
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From: Conroe, TX
Originally posted by Seven+April 25, 2005, 12:43 PM--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Seven @ April 25, 2005, 12:43 PM)</div><div class='quotemain'><!--QuoteBegin-gnn60gt500@April 25, 2005, 1:32 PM
Seven-
And what will be the average age of a Shelby owner?
Seven-
And what will be the average age of a Shelby owner?
I sense we will see it though. I could be wrong, but considering how there is so much competition in the marketplace right now, I just don't see them limiting their sales simply to keep an "image" of a true muscle car.
[/b][/quote]
I hate to tell you this but plenty of "true muscle cars" came with automatics, including the original GT-500.
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Originally posted by TomServo92@April 25, 2005, 2:11 PM
I hate to tell you this but plenty of "true muscle cars" came with automatics, including the original GT-500.
I hate to tell you this but plenty of "true muscle cars" came with automatics, including the original GT-500.
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Seven, my comments were a reflection of the prior post "only dress wearers want autos". I'm sure there's more than a few skirts that could kick my hiney around a track, and I've been married long enough that I fully accept my lot in life ;-) Seriously, the point was that others made the dress comments, I was pointing out, if they felt that only real men should drive this car, and they wanted to be exclusive, why no go all the way and put sexism into their other bigotries? (I could have gone with racism, and been completely politically correct as well). Of course, I don't think Ford should try to be artificially exclusive, but that was the argument you were making.
I do agree that what you call popular options (what I'd probably call luxury/convenience options) would be nice as well. But for ME, Autos aren't just convenience, they are major driving preference. It's like having adjustable seats aren't convenience -- that's major. The difference between 2 way, and 8 way adjustable seats (with adjustable steering wheel + pedals and heat/ventilation) takes it into luxury. But if Ford only offered fixed racing seats with a 5 point harness, that's more than just a convenience thing. (Enough that I wouldn't buy the car). (On that line, my wife looked at an R32, sat in it, but the seats forward leg part was so long and unadjustable, that she couldn't get comfortable, thus would never buy the car -- it's more significant than not having a DVD entertainment system). Remember, at least a 1/3, and probably more like 1/2 like autos. You're advocating eliminating half the market for some arrogance reason?
My point with the Germans/Americans was that you either compete or you don't. If Ford can't offer the same options at a higher price point, then they aren't competing. VW is bringing in DSG's (from Audi) on cars that are lower end than Mustangs. GM, as screwed up as they are, offer autos in the vette. Dodge has autos in all theirs (and are doing great). BMW offers SMG, etc., etc.... Ford said they were targeting BMW's and Vettes (a little). Their traditional competition is Dodge & GM. Ford can compete or not -- the choice is theirs, but I'm not going to ignore facts, because I wish the Blue Oval was doing better. (They either are or they aren't).
I do agree that what you call popular options (what I'd probably call luxury/convenience options) would be nice as well. But for ME, Autos aren't just convenience, they are major driving preference. It's like having adjustable seats aren't convenience -- that's major. The difference between 2 way, and 8 way adjustable seats (with adjustable steering wheel + pedals and heat/ventilation) takes it into luxury. But if Ford only offered fixed racing seats with a 5 point harness, that's more than just a convenience thing. (Enough that I wouldn't buy the car). (On that line, my wife looked at an R32, sat in it, but the seats forward leg part was so long and unadjustable, that she couldn't get comfortable, thus would never buy the car -- it's more significant than not having a DVD entertainment system). Remember, at least a 1/3, and probably more like 1/2 like autos. You're advocating eliminating half the market for some arrogance reason?
My point with the Germans/Americans was that you either compete or you don't. If Ford can't offer the same options at a higher price point, then they aren't competing. VW is bringing in DSG's (from Audi) on cars that are lower end than Mustangs. GM, as screwed up as they are, offer autos in the vette. Dodge has autos in all theirs (and are doing great). BMW offers SMG, etc., etc.... Ford said they were targeting BMW's and Vettes (a little). Their traditional competition is Dodge & GM. Ford can compete or not -- the choice is theirs, but I'm not going to ignore facts, because I wish the Blue Oval was doing better. (They either are or they aren't).