MikeTwo of my first cars had manual transmission, and I still enjoy driving a stick shift. But if you ask why I enjoy it, I can’t give a good answer other than “it’s fun.” In truth, it doesn’t make sense. An automatic transmission is less work and doesn’t require that I pay attention to the high pitch whine of an engine that is ready for the next gear. Automatics are easier to drive in stop-and-go traffic or when you’re stopped on a hill. My preference isn’t rational, but that doesn’t change my mind.