Most people that I talk to would prefer a stick in their muscle cars strictly for the fun factor. My wife prefers the 4 speed as well. If you drive in a lot of heavy traffic the automatic is definitely the wiser choice. At the strip the automatic is a lot more consistant and breaks fewer parts. There is definitely more skill involved in driving a stick shift car, especially at the strip. Anyone can look like a pro with an automatic. The rest of us get humbled by our 4 speeds regularly. Show off and you'll miss a shift every time. I'd pay more for a 4 speed car every time. Keeps me humble.
__________________
Chevelleless after 46 years......but we did find a low mileage, six speed, silver 2005 Corvette. It will just have to do for now.