I drove my car with the stock shifter for years, and got really used to it. When I swapped, I put in a single-bend shorty and didn't like it at first. I got more or less used to it, but I can't say its any faster than before. The amount of time it takes to move your hand another inch is pretty negligible, IMO.

Pick up a used one and see how you like it. IMO there are FAR better things to spend your money on than a brand-new shifter, but used might be worth the money.