I'm in exactly the same situation with deciding manual vs. Tip vs. (possibly) PDK, actually had to pass on an allocation for now until I decide what to do. I totally understand the fun aspect of driving a manual, but to be honest my proficiency could use some improvement. No doubt I would be faster with the Tip on track. All my friends swear by manuals but these are the same people who don't rev match/heel-and-toe and stay in the wrong gear b/c they're too lazy to shift!