Amen to all of the above except auto being faster- no way. Automatics are usually about .5 to 1 second slower from 0-60.

If you want some tips on performance driving rent a tape from a rally where they show a footwork of a WRC drivers. It's like watching professional dancers.

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1985 190D 2.2l Sold-to Brother-in-law
1996 Mustang 3.8l -"thinks it's a sports car"
1988 Grand Wagoneer - Sold (good home)
1995 Grand Cherokee Ltd -"What was I thinking??!!"