Hello, What it really comes down to is preference. I own a 5 speed, and personally thats all i really like to drive. It gives me a since of control over the car that i do not get with an automatic, and usualy you get a little better gas mileage as well. There are upgrades you can do to make the automatics just as reliable as the 5 speeds, so don't let that be a factor. If it is just a pleasure car like it is for me, maybe you might want to buy a 5 speed and learn to drive it. But, if your going to be into traffic alot, or constant stop and go traffic an automatic may be a better choice for you. Whatever the choice is, it is still a DeLorean. - Shain #10140 5 Speed