RE: Manual vs. Automatic
I've put a few miles on both manual and automatic in first an '85 Westy
(manual) and now a '90 Westy with automatic.
Pros For Automatic: I prefer the automatic. More comfortable to drive, all
round I like it better. Also has a virtually 'bullet proof' reputation and
is much cheaper to have rebuilt than a manual.
Cons: Slighly lower gas milage on the highway, considerabley lower in town.
Also, none of the other options are available like rear differential locker,
etc.
Pros for the Manual: Slightly better gas milage, both highway and town, more
options available (at a price).
Cons: Except for the last two years (90 and 91) there will eventually be a
failure of an internal part. Stronger part available when you do the
rebuild. More expensive to rebuild. And the added expense of occasional
clutch replacement also.
That's based on my experience and limited knowledge. I have good friends
running both types of transmissions and no one is adamant about one being
better than the other.
Of course YMMV....