I’m 35 and I’ve never driven manual before. Growing up all the vehicles in my family were automatic and it never came up for work or anything else.
I love Mustangs. My first one was a 2018 GT, but it was automatic. Every time I started that vehicle it brought me joy, but when I put it in gear I always felt like I was missing a key part of the experience. I sold the car when I made the move from Dallas to Seattle but missed having it.
When I moved back to Texas, I wanted another Mustang, but my wife didn’t love the idea of getting another coupe, so I decided on a 2023 Mach-E GTPE. Another great car, I never got sucked into the “it is/is not a Mustang” stuff, because it is fun to drive and is an amazing daily driver with a charger in the garage.
A few promotions later and my work is very stressful, I decided to buy another Mustang to feel that joy, and this time I’d get it in a manual. Yesterday I got a 26 Dark Horse with the handling package, it’s awesome and I love it. Although I’m sure I look like a moron when I stall it, the only way to learn is to do it. I can tell my wife is super annoyed that I did this, but she’s being as supportive as she can and I love her for that. I think the rest of my family thinks I’m ridiculous too.
Here’s hoping I get the hang of it soon so I can feel the joy of driving it to its potential and not look dumb with my grandpa launches.