I also started with a manual and prefer it for the following reasons: 1) replacing clutch plate is MUCH cheaper than a transmission job 2) more control of the power of 4 cylinder car/truck when I need to get up to speed more quickly (or get run over), and 3) easier to not speed b/c you can't go faster than the speed range of the gear one is currently in! Yes, an automatic is more relaxing but that is the ONLY benefit.