Originally Posted by BoilerUpXFire
I always start in second, unless on a hill or really trying to take off. The start is much smoother and none of that 1 --> 2 harshness. In winter, this method helps out quite a bit in slick conditions, in fact, I believe the W on the shifter on the autos is winter mode where the car actually starts in second for this exact reason.
first gear is there for a reason. 2nd gear is a bit hard on the clutch. I will always use the first gear to take off unless the roads are icy or i am facing down on a hill.