I like both but I test drove a Cooper S with AT and really enjoyed it. Plus about 90-95% of my driving is in the city.

I only have one concern..its about power. Does the AT have less? I am a bit confused because of the ALTA site.

Scroll down, but I do plan on getting new exhaust, acc port, intake, hot side tube and larger intercooler. So thats their stage 3 and I'd be adding more. But on their stage section it looks like the AT makes less power..?

http://www.altaperformance.com/hardt...port-ecu-tuner

 

Even though the engine puts out the same power, there's a larger drivetrain power loss in a automatic transmission than a manual.
The torque convertor can slip, and the line pressure (or valve body pressure in the tranny) can vary causing lower rated output.

- Erik

 

Who cares? It's still a MINI! :D

 

I have a 2010 Clubman S with Auto and a 2012 Convertible S with 6 speed manual...they are both a blast to drive...there are times I'm absolutely grateful I have an auto...stop and go traffic on the 91 Freeway, but for around town and fun drives, a manual is fantastic. Either way, both cars look and sound great and drive wonderfully!

 

Get the MT. I just bought a 2012 AT MCS and am seriously regretting it. I would reconsider a AT if MINI upgraded to a dual clutch gear box in future models but the AT now is mediocre at best. Even in "tiptronic" mode it downshifts for you.