It just takes a little practice. I wear 11's and don't have a prob. Its a bit awkward at first, as you have the rotate your right leg and hip. Also, its easier if you are braking hard. However, our pedals are ideal for heal-toe, compared to most cars.

You may try using the side of your foot more than your heal if your having trouble. Also, I have found personally that running shoes aren't the best driving shoes (thick soles and big tread blocks=not the most condusive to good pedal feel)

 

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And the engine doesn't take a beating in any of this...unless you're doing something stupid (what are you doing on your driveway?) or shifting into 1st/2nd on the highway.

 

I've had to use the side of my foot on almost every car I've had. The exception was a 1953 Chevy, with a floor-mounted gas pedal that was a lot lower than the brake. My foot is about size 12.

I catch the side of the gas pedal with the side of my shoe, above the welt, rolling my foot to work the gas. I find the gas and the brake to be a little far apart on the 8. There's a DIY post that describes moving the gas pedal's foot pad over a little. Haven't tried that, and am not likely to: I'll just eat more and fatten my foot to help it reach.

Ken

 

Oh yea, I haven't practiced it too many times since I got the car not long ago, but the few times that I've tried, my foot would hit the top and right side of the footwell, so I guess I'm kinda clumsy when I do it. I've never thought about using the side of my foot, so I guess I'll try that when I have the chance. Humm, the running shoes that I have aren't too outrageous, but I know what you mean, so hopefully I'll pick the right shoes next time I shop. Thanks for the advice!

 

http://www.renkucorp.com/garage/shifting.html