Automatic transmissions are heavy, complicated, shift wrong, and rob you of power. The internal friction of the clutch packs, combined with the power used to run the hydraulic pump typically uses about 30hp. This doesn't even get into the losses from the torque converter.  They also weigh about 3 times what a standard gearbox does.  Then there's the issue of shifting. They're not very smart. They don't know what gear you want. Usually, they get it right in town, but on the highway, they're a mess. If you need to get around someone in a hurry, it's anyone's guess whether or not it's going to down-shift when you hit the gas. Then there are times when the damned thing can't make up it's mind and will annoyingly go back and forth between overdrive and 3rd.  With a stick, even a Geo Metro feels lively. You can keep the engine in its power-band by slipping the clutch a bit and letting it wind out in every gear. You can downshift from 5th directly to 2nd in a turn and use engine-breaking, then rocket out of the turn because you're already in the perfect gear.  You can't overheat a manual. You can tow in any gear you like, and it will stay there.  If you live in a snowy region, you can "rock" a stuck car.  If you've never tried it, you really should. Most people are afraid to even try them, because they've been told it's difficult. The first couple times you take off, you'll look like a tool, until you get the feel, but after that, you'll never want anything else.