Originally posted by detroitpoop
This is what I say; don't worry about it. Get what you'll enjoy the most; I think in the long run, you won't regret a manual. I think you WILL regret buying an auto...at every stoplight and in every passing situation...because the day you bought it you were afraid you'd get a couple hundred less for it down the road.
You make a good point. I never regretted getting the 5-speed on my '99 Jetta (only regretted not waiting for the 1.8T). And guess why I'm selling my Audi A6? The tranny. Stupid adaptive automatic is annoying as hell and I can't afford to get a new A6 2.7T 6-speed.
The more I think about it, I don't want to look at this purchase as being that temporary. I think I want it decked out with the spoiler, 17" wheels, fogs, etc. I'd maybe even consider an exterior mod or two, as long as it's not drastic. That said, I'm leaning towards buying this car now and forget about leasing. I'll get my money's worth that way and enjoy it better during the entire time I drive it. But how will the 5-speed 4cyl drive is the question. Will the 160hp engine feel underpowerd? My sister has a '94 EX Auto and it is peppy, but it has to work very hard. The '03 V6 I test drove was very smooth, but the handling can't compare to my old 325i, Maxima, Jetta or my A6. But that comparison is somewhat out of whack...