I understand your problem surrounding the manual (your mom is probably the biggest obstacle) BUT the major reason for me getting a manual is how the car drives. With a small car like a Civic, it has much more pick up with the manual. If we are talking about an EX (especially with Vtech--the car i really wanted--instead got an Lx) then you really need a manual because it would be like getting a GTO automatic (I know Im stretching it here). these civics are quick and fun to drive with manual transmission and it is well worth the time to learn to drive a stick. I had a automatic celica once and all i could think about is how i could make it a manual (of course too expensive to actually change out the transmission) which was a bummer. However, if you dont know what your missing then it probably wont matter but one day you will. The AVANTAGES of a manual includes repair costs, better gas mileage, tight take offs, more control, and its fun. Wouldnt hurt your mother to learn how to drive one too. Also, if it doesnt start you can always "pop the clutch"--cant do that with a auto. Ok, I'll get off my soap box and wish you luck with your first car. you are starting out right looking at the Honda's. I stick with used Honda's and Toyota's and have never regretted it. Buying a new car is one of the worst investments I can think of. Buying anything that depreciates immediately by just driving it off the lot seems like burning up a couple thousand just for that new car smell. you can get much more car when buying used and its easy to get a used Honda still under warranty with the option to get an extended warranty. yI just bought a 96 Civic LX with 176000 miles. it has a couple minor things wrong (I hope) with it and I am hoping I can fix these things myself with the help of the fine people on this site. Let us know what you end up getting. Good Luck. Asilo