My 997TT is a May build. I went through the same concerns Tip V. 6 speed. I submitted my query to the 997 Turbo Rennteam Board. The overwhelming vote was 6 speed. I am sure the Tip works great. I am an old guy and just can't bring myself to buy a sports car with an automatic. I solved the wife problem by the usual solution, making promises. I have agreed to purchase an 08'(new model) E63 AMG for her to replace her 03'E320. She seems ok with the promise and two year wait, so far, and I am off the hook for two years. In this way, we each have what we want, and I won't be stuck with an automatic in my 997TT.