Prefer a SE w/5speed manual but can't seem to get it w/traction and stability control. 2nd choice would be V6 automatic but have read about issues with the automatic transmission. Anyone have any ideas or commments.
I have not previously given thought to whether it is possible to apply effective traction and stability control to a vehicle with a manual transmission, but knowing how traction and stability control work, I think it would be difficult.
Traction and stability control work by controlling the throttle and/or individual wheel brakes under certain conditions. In a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the torque converter acts to de-couple the wheels from the engine and prevent the engine from stalling. With a manual transmission, backing off the throttle or braking wheels without disengaging the clutch might stall the engine, which is probably why it is not offered.
The camry brochure doesn't mention automatic only (which it does with other options). Honda accord V6 6speed and Pontiac G6 Gt w/sport package also have traction and stability. Other makers make traction control standard or optional with manual transmission.
Bmw has been offering this for years on manuals (the entire alphabet, traction control, stability control,e tc etc....). Ford also offered manual cars with at least traction control that I know of. If traction was lost it would back off the timing and/or cut fuel supply. There's many ways you can do it, I think I've also heard of cars applying the brakes to the wheel(s) that are losing traction. If it would threaten to stall the engine that would mean you are about to have traction so no more braking is needed.
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