I don't have time I need to get turbo done and dialed in for NMRA in May...
Damn that'll be tough dude. Of the last 15 kits I've sold there are only 3 sticks. 2 of them are converting.
Ceteris paribus, an auto car will be faster than a stick car but to me, the fun factor and satisfaction in rowing gears outweighs the couple extra losses I will take vs a comparably setup auto.
Everyone is different and to each their own.
Just my $.02