A High-Speed Dance

‘Remember when driving was about skill and adrenaline, not just pressing buttons and hoping the car agrees.’

The Racing Driver’s View

‘Without the distraction of a digital display judging every metre of my performance, I felt entirely connected to the car in a way I don’t think I have experienced before.’

Modern cars feature electronic aids like stability control and automated gearboxes. While enhancing safety, these systems reduce the hands-on, thrilling connection between driver and machine.

Electric power steering (EPS) offers smooth handling but lacks the tactile feedback of older hydraulic systems, making the drive feel less immersive.

Automatic and dual-clutch transmissions are now common, offering efficiency and speed but removing the personal touch and skill involved in manual shifting.

‘They need more involvement and satisfaction of manual control, making the art of heel-and-toe downshifting a fading skill.’

Some cars use speaker-enhanced noises to replace lost engine sounds. However, this often feels less authentic than the genuine roar of classic engines.

Electronic systems increase a car’s weight and complexity, which can diminish the nimbleness and excitement that classic sports cars once provided.

Innovations like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist make long drives easier but can make the experience feel more passive and less engaging.

Electronic aids may give drivers a false sense of security, encouraging them to push vehicles beyond their limits and reducing driving skills development.

As manufacturers prioritise efficiency and regulations, cars increasingly share similar driving dynamics, reducing the unique character that distinguishes different brands.

Older cars require more skill and attention, making each drive a rewarding challenge. The direct response to driver input created a purer connection between the car and the driver.

There’s a rising appreciation for the straightforward, unfiltered driving experiences of the past. Classic cars from the pre-electronic era are becoming more valuable as symbols of a more authentic driving time.

While modern electronics have vastly improved safety, efficiency, and convenience, they have also diminished the pure driving pleasure enthusiasts cherish.

Finding the right balance between technological advancements and preserving the joy of driving remains a vibrant discussion among car lovers.

The integration of electronics in cars has transformed the driving landscape, offering numerous benefits and altering the fundamental joy of driving.

Enthusiasts continue to seek a harmonious blend of modern technology and the exhilarating, hands-on experience that defines true driving passion.

‘Driving used to be an art—now it’s just a high-tech dance with electronics’