[capableweb]

> However this knowledge does very little to improve road safety

I think this would depend on the environment. If you live in a dry, relatively flat area and you mostly drive there, you're probably right, marginal difference in road safety.

But if you live in a country that has long winters or lots of mountains, having control over the engine is a integral part of staying safe on the roads.

[swader999]

I live rural, wicked winters. I never buy a stick car because you need two arms and two feet to drive it. So if you get hurt, you are pretty stuck for a while until your arm or leg get better.