Re: MPG vs W/S (auto) & 2nd in 6spd?
Do both cars have the same type tires? [summer vs all-weather.] If the stick has Conti's and the auto has Michelins that would make about a two mile per gallon difference. If that's the case you might try putting 35-36 lbs of pressure in the Michelins to get better mileage.