So what’s the deal with the 8C’s gearbox?
Car enthusiasts have had much to talk about regarding the gearbox on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. The six speed automated manual transmission is also called a robotized manual or semi automatic gearbox. In the high performance cars of its era, this type of transmission was very popular, promising the convenience of an automatic with the engagement of a manual. But it's known to jerk shift and be slow to react compared to today's dual clutch transmissions. There are those who say this gearbox brings character to the driving experience, and there are those who say it’s a major flaw in what would otherwise be a great car. Should this transmission choice be deemed a misstep on Alfa Romeo's part or part of the 8C's charm and driving experience?
The 8C's Achilles' heel is definitely its gearbox. That’s clunky, slow and doesn’t do justice to that amazing V8. Sure it was the thing back then, but man, what a car it would be with a modern dual clutch.
I actually do not mind the gearbox. It’s not as smooth as modern transmissions, but that’s part of the car’s character. You know, it makes you work for it. It's part of the experience.
The gearbox, we'll be honest, is quite terrible by today’s standards. This was cutting edge tech when the 8C came out, but you've got to remember that. All of these things are part of what makes the car a time capsule of that era of automotive design.
I believe the gearbox gets a hard time. It’s not perfect, but it’s not supposed to be. It's supposed to be a bit raw, and engaging. Buy a Lexus if you want smooth and effortless.
It’s a love it or hate it kind of thing. Personally, I love it. Sure it has quirks, but every drive is an event. You’ve got to plan ahead, think about your shifts. The modern auto is more involving.
I think the gearbox criticism is overblown. Is it the best? No. But it's far from the worst. It also is pretty fun, actually, in manual mode once you get used to it. Managing your expectations is what it’s all about.
The 8C's chain definitely has a weak link and that is the gearbox. But you know what? I kind of like that. That makes it human, gives the car a flaw. Perfect cars are boring anyway.
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