What's better to buy? A 5.0 stick or auto for a vehicle that will be used for the track?

We noticed last week at the track some drivers were having difficulties with their shifting to get the best times. Wouldn't it just be easier to get an auto and let the car do it for you? Doesn't it take longer to go through all the gears manually?

I am asking because my parents are considering a 1987 5.0 automatic and fixing it up for the track. [sm=happy046.gif]

 

I say auto. We went the stick route, my son and son in-law said they just had to shift to make it fun. Then I got the auto, now they only want to run the auto.

 

it is true that there is less room for driver error w/ an auto
i think stick is better to a certain hp level, then when you get into high
hp levels thats when an auto makes more sence they can take
more abuse than a stick and you get alot more consistancy w/ an auto
but everyone will have their preference

 

For a track car, definentally get that 87, you can build a very stout AOD for under 750 bucks that will out run a 5 spd. in the quarter. Stock for stock the stick will take the auto but it doesn't sound like you are going to be keeping this car stock.

 

by track... do you mean... autocross or straight line auto cross i would go stick .. and drag race... go auto..

 

Another vote for Auto...Less strain on the driveline plus hardly any driver error..Not to mention 1.6 60fts are takin with ease with the auto.

 

you are right on this one, the best 60 I had with my stick was 1.6
I pulled a 1.3 60 ft with my auto

 

id say an Auto if you wanna run consitantly but a manual is usually faster due to the ratios and the better ability to launch.

 

Sorry, I should have been more specific -- drag racing.

I expected to be flamed for asking my original question. Thanks guys.

 

I have no experience with an auto in any car thats fast. But if its a built auto, Im sure it would do good. I would still take stick though. I just love it too much.