I've been driving over 20 years also, and when the Challenger comes out I won't get one without a 6-speed manual. Why? Because... it's simply what I prefer.
I know with today's technology that automatics (and their various variations thereof - autosticks, etc) can easily keep up with the manuals as far as 0-60 and 1/4 mile times. And they're right there with gas mileage figures too. So I guess there's no real compelling reason these days to choose a manual over an automatic... but I still want one. In my 04 GTO I paid extra to get a 6-speed manual (the only option available on the car).
Plus you gotta consider that no matter how advanced an automatic may be... it just won't be as fun and satisfying as a good ol' stick shift. I guess that's the main reason (and maybe for nostalgia reasons, plus I gotta get that pistol-grip shifter) I won't get a Challenger (or any other performance car) without one.
