ORIGINAL: BootCamp

If you've never driven a manual transmission car, I wouldn't recommend you learn on a new car - especially one with high HP numbers (doesn't make it any easier).
Having a manual gives you more control and (I think) more road feel. You get more info from the stick than you do from the pedal on an automatic. Once you've mastered a manual transmission, it becomes second nature to you. It's not a distraction, or even something to concentrate on. It's part of the overall driving experience.

There are "pro's" and "con's" to both an automatic and a manual. I want to "drive" the car, and part of the "driving experience" - to me (especially in a muscle car) is manually shifting it.

Here's my pro/con list for manual transmission cars...

Pros:
Cheaper (auto as an option adds to the list price)
Better fuel economy (unless you're a leadfoot)
Keeps you engaged and safer (even though it's another thing to pay attention to, it keeps you from turning your brain off while driving, which a lot of people do. try using a handheld cell phone while driving stick)
Much more satisfying driving experience (you're not at the whim of a computer deciding what gear is appropriate)
Makes the car slightly lighter (not noticeable, but autos are heavier)
Women seem to like it (or so my wife says)

Cons:
Aggravating as hell in a very hilly area (like San Francisco)
Probably not a good idea if you're constantly in stop n' go traffic (unless you have a strong left leg)
Makes it harder to loan your car to someone (wait, that's a pro, isn't it)
May make your car a little more difficult to sell (since most people can't drive stick)