Nopstnz8

iTrader: (6)

Was wondering if this is even possible for US spec RX8's? I know we have the 5MT's in some countries in Asia or something, but since they use the 4port motors like the '04-05 AT's do, it would save people the cost of an engine if they legitimately want to swap to MT. I've researched this, but it seems that no one has done it, that I know of. The only issue I see is with the PCM since a non-US spec one wouldn't pass emissions here I believe. The other reason 5MT would be ideal is due to the fact that the gearing would already be optimized for the 4 port motor, making the swap less of a headache than it already is. I'm considering this alternative, but it's still highly unlikely, even if possible.

I've had my 4AT since my 16th birthday, and I'm now 20 and think it's finally time for a 6MT upgrade. The limiting factor would be my parents. Regardless I'm paying the difference, but even then, it's still hard to get their approval. I already know how to drive MT, so that's not an issue. I think stating the the 6spd can achieve much greater freeway mileage on a road trip due to it being able to keep the revs lower at freeway speed, will ultimately help me to win them over.

Basically, I'm trying to trade mine in for a 6spd, but finding the same exact car is hard, but I already know it's possible because I found one, but I couldn't come home that weekend to potentially do the trade in. Trading in is obviously the most ideal because it's the easiest and cheapest method. Plus selling a swapped car is kinda sketchy.

Anyways, sorry for the long post. I just want to see if there is another "reasonable" option to get an MT, be that a trade in for a 6MT, or a swap to 5MT. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

bse50

Trade it in.
Swapping a manual transmission into your AT is not an easy task and will cost more than the trade in.
Labor cost aside you should:
Import a transmission (around 500$ just to ship it)
Buy a clutch, clutch pedal, master\slave cylinders etc,
Sort out the eventual pcm differences etc, steering wheel controls and whatever.
You final gear has a 4.1 ratio, the 5mt is geared for a 4.44 one.

Just trade the auto in

<ARRXATE>

iTrader: (1)

^^ Agree. Pointless to do all the work and money to switch them out. its a major pain. Swap vehicles. [=

mdw1000

And I don't think your rpms will be any lower on the freeway with a 6MT. Our 4th gear is insanely tall.

CrazyJek

trade it in. swapping transmissions from auto to MT is extremely expensive not to mention you wont have a car for long while from all the work that will be done to it.