Views requested on the automatic gearbox on a 2003 v40

[acousticplayer]

Hello all. I have at the moment a 2004 2litre v40. It's running fine with just over 100k miles on the clock. It is however getting a bit tired and I've been on the lookout for a while to replace it with the same ,only less miles. I missed a nice example at the end of last year as I was in hospital at the time but I now have the chance to buy a very low mileage 2003 model much the same spec but it has an automatic gearbox. I've never owned a car with automatic gearbox or even driven one and am pondering on the purchase. I would really appreciate the views of fellow members on this. Is the Volvo auto box reliable . Is it smooth and would it be a good choice. Is the transition from manual to auto easy for the driver.

Thanks in anticipation

[ITSv40]

I cannot comment on the V40 auto as never had one. However the transition from auto to manual is no issue. You just put in drive, release the handbrake and press the throttle. Then when you want to stop put your foot on the brake and job done. You will be used to it after the first drive.

[Joseph Martin]

I've driven loads of manual S/V40s but only one auto V40. It was a 1.8 a few years ago. By the phase 2, they were five speed from the bigger V70. They're very good.

Biggest tip for driving an auto - put your left leg away from being anywhere near the pedals. First time I ever drove an auto, my 859 T-5 when I bought it, I almost went through the windscreen by braking with my left foot when I was looking for the 'clutch'...

[m0eeb]

I've owned my S40 automatic for 14 years now it's done 193,000 miles and still going strong on the original engine and gearbox which is lovely and smooth and matches up to the 2ltr engine beautyfully