Recent owner as well...I love it a my daily driver. If you don't feel like driving a car but like to steer it around then get the Auto. I don't like Autos, just a personal preference (and the cost to maintain them). Less moving parts in the 6 spd. Also, the people on here say the '05 6 spd is better than the '04.

The manual lets you control the entire car and it's easy to steer with one hand on the wheel if you have to shift mid-turn. I have yet to experience the popping/slipping 1st gear. My car has 30K miles on it and I've been driving it for 2 weeks and haven't noticed anything out of the ordinary.

Overall it's a splendid car, it's just a matter of which flavor you like, 6sp, Auto or SRT. I prefer the coupe as well cause it still has a trunk.