I can relate to you well...
Firstly your australian LOL

Anyways, My C200 was 97 and it had 5 Speed auto with the intellegent transmission (holds gear up a hill and adapts to your driving style).

Frankly, it didnt make a difference, my car always shifted harshly when cold and was constantly changing gears to keep up with traffic. Even when it was warmed up, the gearbox would get confused sometimes and would shift and jerk etc... You gotta remember its moving alot of metal and with a small engine. my new to me 94'E280 is a different story altogether its so tranny so smooth anytime...

Secondly, i think it depends what size motor ur toyota has. The bigger it is the higher it can be geared which means for more relaxed crusing.

Only my thoughts

Christian

1989 300TE
1994 E280