Yes, thanks RLSH700! That helps a lot. The manual keeps up with the MDS advantage on the highway with a taller overdrive and lower RPMs.

Now, for me, that adds another element to the equation. One of my concerns about the car was cruising noise. The biggest engine I've ever had in a car was my wife's '93 Firebird Formula. It was a 5.7 with plenty of power, but at highway cruising speeds on long trips I'd come away feeling a bit deaf. In day to day driving I didn't notice it, but trapped in the car for hours at a time the drone was uncomfortably loud. The manual Challenger might be nice to have on long trips if the taller overdrive keeps the RPMs down and the cabin quieter.

Hmmm, something new to consider...

Thanks again!