[BigBoyBlue]

There is no doubt that the "NEW" automatics are faster. No one is arguing that! That said, unless I was a professional drag racer or LeMans driver, I couldn't care less about those fractions of a second. There is MUCH less challenge in driving an auto. Some aren't looking for that challenge and that is fine. The auto is much more convenient. To each their own.

I love the challenge involved in getting my shifting more efficient. I've been driving stick for almost 20 years and I still feel like I'm getting better. With an auto, once you get the launch down there is little room for improvement.

Driving is a passion of mine, not something that I just want to get through or for it to be easier. Much like when the German cars first started coming over here they didn't have cup holders or other creature comforts. That is because to the Germans (at least at that period in time) driving was an experience.

I am happy that automatics have gotten much better. I remember the crap that they had in the 90's. I like automatics in my SUVs and trucks, but not in my fast cars. Yes, manuals can be a pain in traffic. I've lived in NYC and DC, so I know how annoying they can be. Once that traffic breaks I'm in heaven again.