7-18
Starting and operating
WARNING
Do not drive the vehicle with the
clutch disengaged (i.e., when the
clutch pedal is depressed) or with
the shift lever in the neutral position.
Engine braking has no effect in
either of these conditions and the
risk of an accident is consequently
increased.
& Shifting speeds
Non-turbo models
! Recommended shifting speeds
The best compromise between fuel economy and vehicle performance during
normal driving is ensured by shifting up
at the speeds listed in the following table.
1st
mph (km/h)
32 (51)
2nd
53 (86)
3rd
76 (122)
Turbo models
Shift up
mph (km/h)
1st
mph (km/h)
35 (56)
CAUTION
Shift into reverse ONLY when the
vehicle has completely stopped. It
may cause damage to the transmission to try shifting into reverse when
the vehicle is moving.
1st to 2nd
15 (24)
2nd
58 (94)
2nd to 3rd
25 (40)
3rd
85 (137)
3rd to 4th
40 (64)
4th to 5th
45 (72)
! Maximum allowable speeds
The following tables show the maximum
speeds that are possible with each different gear.
Never exceed the speed limit listed in the
following table for each gear position
except for brief acceleration in an emergency. The tachometer’s needle will enter
the red area if these speeds are exceeded. Failure to observe this precaution
can lead to excessive engine wear and
poor fuel economy.
Never exceed the posted speed limit.
WARNING
When shifting down a gear, ensure
that the vehicle is not travelling at a
speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is
about to be selected. Failure to
observe this precaution can lead to
engine over-revving and this in turn
can result in engine damage.
In addition, sudden application of
engine brakes when the vehicle is
travelling on a slippery surface can
lead to wheel locking; as a consequence, control of the vehicle may
be lost and the risk of an accident
increased.