But for now I really prefer a manual transmission.
I think the reasons we've listed here really all come down to preference. Ignoring my 1-tons I have a mix of automatics and standards. I learned to drive trucks using a manual, though my dad bought an automatic truck about the same time I first swapped an automatic into an old truck. That was the mid-seventies.
My wife won't drive a standard so I have to make sure anything she may drive is an automatic. Today we license and insure four, two are auto and two are standard. She has yet to drive the automatic trans pickup so today she only drives her car.
My preference for autos has not prevented me from buying a number of manual transmission vehicles and may not stop me from buying another. But based on my increasing preference I do very much doubt I'll ever again purchase something with a manual that I intend to use as a daily driver unless a trans swap is in my plan. My 'collection' is likely to always include some manuals.
