I've seen it on the bmw forums how angry manual to auto drivers are, pretty funny. the manual drivers over there berate the auto guys.
auto is easy to use, but manual is just the ultimate with driver in full control. I have an auto now, but I used to drive vw, f150, nissan stick. I liked the auto but now i miss the manual again!

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1985 300TD Turbo Diesel Wagon
273,000 miles