The problem is I didn't find any manual trany V10 out there when I was looking. You definatly get a beter deal buying off of the lot vs ordering. I couldn't find a manual to test drive, I was leary of being empty and having to rake through 4-5 gears to get up to speed. I like my auto. The converter locks up in 2nd 3rd and 4th gear. When it is locked up it lugs like a manual. I like the auto well in low range. It will compression brake very well with a load of firewoood in the back going down a very steep in low.
I have never driven a 6 spd gas, I would like to.
I have driven a 6spd diesel and empty they seem to close together but to far apart to skip any one gear when shifting.