Autos compared to manuals

[zebediahtyrefrier]

I drive a 260 with an auto and I haven't actually driven a manual Z. Am I missing out on much?
It does seem a bit gutless off the mark (not too tyre frying actually)- I assume its the first gear ratio?
I quite like autos generally speaking (They're good with V8's) and I'm wondering if there's anything that can be done to make auto models a bit more goey?
Any help appreciated.

 

[Mr.F]

The 240Z and the 260Z were never offered as autos in the U.K. It was not until the introduction of the 280ZX that the idea of an auto box in a sports car was really considered.

The manual cars have a more accelerative differential ratio. The auto needs a high ratio (numerically low) to maintain cruising speed at reasonable rpm with a three speed box. The situation improved with the O/D boxes introduced on the Z31 300ZX, but until then all autos feel sluggish by comparison to the equivalent manual. The conversion to manual box can be made, but don't forget you have to change the diff as well.

Years ago, B & M (a USA auto box performance specialist) used to offer a re-programming kit for the Datsun / Nissan 3-speed auto. This would extend the shift points and firm up the shifts making a very worthwhile improvement. I haven't seen these offered for some time, but there may be stock somewhere. Any of out American readers have a source??