I bought a 6-speed 3.2CL Type-S and it's the finest car I've ever owned. Reliabilty issues are almost non-existant for these cars, as verified by Consumer Reports and many current owners. After having a SAAB 9000 Aero, I'm a lot happier not worrying about what will go wrong next!
I agree that manual cars are more reliable and easier to fix if something should go wrong. Basic maintenance is a necissity for any car to live a long life. As for driving hard, the car can take it. But can you're insurance cope?