Higher speed torque converter, strengthen the auto box, add a cooler or a bigger one and it will beat a similar engined manual over the 1/4 mile. The drive train will last longer as well. The auto is an underrated gearbox. But if you want a manual.....

He wanted a manual 18 months ago ........

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[I]Personal chef[/I]

lol.
Clicked on parts and this was at the top of the list, didn't check the date.....