[LeRich]

I have owned a manual and an auto ZT CDTi 135 and now have a 75 1.8T auto. I didn't set out to buy either autos as autos - it was a case of right car, right time, and time has proven both decisions to be correct. My thoughts -

Manual:
+ better fuel economy
+ cheaper tax
+ more direct control
+ sharper, more linear throttle response
+ quicker in most circumstances

Auto:
+ more relaxing
+ quicker off the line
+ far easier in traffic
+ more reliable
+ easier to find a comfortable driving position

For me, it has to be an auto.