i really cannot understand the need to 'feel in control' of a gear stick, or people who actually enjoy it.
manuals are just a pain - i don't see what it so good about having to constantly change gears and press the clutch - i can think of probably a million things i would rather do.
i also don't understand these claims that somehow automatics don't work as well - of course they do!
i can understand it if you are totally into cars, and like tinkering with them, and have an interest in the mechanical aspects and driving them on tracks etc, but for the average person, where is the fun in moving your arm and leg every few minutes?
i would never choose a manual.