Thread: whats better for drag racing 4 speed or auto

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I have a 65 impala ss 350 engine posi 3.73

A car that heavy would do better with an automatic, either a 350 or 400 Turbohydro would do just fine if built correctly. I much prefer a 5 speed, but parts breakage in a heavy car would be high. If the engine is stock or near stock, might as well get a 2200 to 2800 stall converter when you do the tranny.

I've looked at Dave's post a few times tonight and I like the auto idea he suggested. I still like his idea of a stick.....oooooo....get's the heart rate up thinking about grabbing the shifter and yanking on it...(hey, this is still PG-13 guys)

The general answer to auto or manual is more defined by the car and intended use. An Auto consumes HP that a manual does not but it also multiplies torque with the converter that a manual does not offer. An auto does not miss shifts and is faster than the human interface. You can shift the lever of each pneumatically or let the auto shift per preset RPM or internal pressure points so ......
The auto can use a internal brake to preloaded the drive train and shock the tire harder for a better launch. Desert from dinner is ready so i am bailing on this but a lot more points on each side to be made still.

Discounting the weight of the car, in most cases an auto trans is a must for drag (bracket) racing. It is much easier to perform consistently with an auto than a standard trans. On the other hand, if you're looking at a Lenco or Liberty or other gear grabbing box which are technically "4-speeds". that's a different story. If you want to be consistent, it's easier to get there with an auto, unless you got serious skillz with a stick.

Two cents,

Chris

I'd go with an automatic. Many years ago, I raced a number of times at a local track against a young lady (beautiful young lady I might add) who had a 69 Road Runner 383 auto. I had a 69 Barracuda 383 Formula S with a 4 spd. It was embarrassing, need I say more. Especially since I had to go to work every following Monday and sit across from her. She was nice enough to only rub it in for a few minutes.