defiant, haha i understand. but for me it's def not a macho thing, distraction is my biggest downfall... as i tend to put my full attention to whatever it is i'm doing. which means if someone is trying to engage in conversation with me other than "small talk" i'll often miss an exit or a turn.. a manual box is kind of a way to keep my mind focused solely on driving (though an auto box that forces you to "shift" would work to a similar degree). i do enjoy driving an auto time to time, oddly not when i'm in traffic though!
anyways, to OP, enjoy the car. it's quirky in some ways, but a very rewarding little car nonetheless. but sometimes a little needy as you need to drive a good amount to keep the 12V battery happy. otherwise, very reliable.
the only thing i'd suggest is to get a battery tender if you have a short commute or don't plan to drive the car daily. without an alternator, the 12V system gets its charge from the traction battery at a very slow rate.
