Help-Manual or Automatic?

[cromine]

I have finally decided on getting an H3 and had originally decided to go with a manual. Two reasons, I really do like driving a manual and maybe slightly better gas mileage and pickup. Now the salesman knows in advance that I will be ordering mine so he's not trying to sell me anything on the lot (I also realize an auto is more expensive and may line his pockets a little more). I drive an automatic (all they have on the lot) and he tells me that the manual is a lot more sluggish and that I would not be happy with it. He's says that because of the torque conversion on the automatic it will have better pick up than a manual. Is there any truth to this and is anyone with a manual truly unhappy with their decision?? Looking for some sound advice....