Do you downshift when you slow down or stop?

[Joe B]

I nearly always double clutch when downshifting. Habit, and it seems to downshift more smoothly. Not so good for the engine to accelerate from 1500 rpms, even if it will do so. I downshift to first for right turns, unless they are gentle and second won't be at too low rpms. I like to keep the revs above 3000 when accelerating. I always slip into neutral coming to a stoplight as soon as coasting in gear gets the rpms down to 2000 or so (I watch my rear view mirror).

Whatever blows your hair back !

[jb92563]

I drive with the car ALWAYS in gear accelerating or slowing.

When its in gear you have control of your speed, acceleration and deceleration.

Also results in better tire grip as the braking effect is much gentler and keeps the tires moving smoothly.

Of course I use the brakes for harder deceleration when the folks around me are slow to react.

[Beer]

Originally Posted by lkchris

PS: I checked page 31 of my copy of the April, 1970, issue of Road & Track (first 914 test) ... the 914 is a 4- wheel disc brake car.

Yes, it is. Looked in my garage to verify. Downshifting to stop was helpful on all drum beatles and buses, but not on a modern car.

[opus69]

Shifting gears are to make a car go faster or slower. Brakes are for stopping. That's a philosophy not based upon which wears out first, clutch or brakes. These cars were made to run like quarter horses, agile and quick in the turns. Part of the fun of driving these cars is pushing them hard but responsibly (no over revving). Winding them up and down is a major part of the fun in driving them. Nursing them along like a fragile garage queen misses the whole point of a performance car.