Manual transmission cars are a bit quicker and get better gas mileage because they weigh less and don't have torque converters to waste any power. They offer more control over the power band, and they're typically more reliable and cheaper to repair, too. Unless, of course your driving style causes you to chew through clutches...
If you'd rather have a stick, you're better off waiting for the right car. I ended up buying a '99.5 with 99k miles, but the previous owner had recently replaced the clutch and timing belt (two huge expenses), so you don't have to restrict yourself to a low, or average, mileage car necessarily.
I also found that many sellers were willing to accept substantially less than what they were asking. Car sales are soft everywhere right now, so offer people KBB trade-in price and see what happens.
Best of luck!
|