Been around for a long time, CVT was in the early '60s (Daf Daffodil), same time I noticed European racing drivers preferred automatics in DDs.


Lockups and 5-6-7-8-9 speeds made inevitable. Mix in that warranty claims for automagics are fare lower than sticks, particularly with high HP.


Final straw was the transbrake.


That said half my cars have sticks, I just like them but my tow car has a five speed lockup. Much easier to drive.