I didn't vote because it is a loaded question. If it is a multi purpose car I would vote for power steering. In this case multi purpose would be casual driving, along with occasional autocross, road race etc. If it were a dedicated, purpose built car I would choose manual for road race car, but probably still power for autocross. My Dart has 16:1 manual and it will never see anything more spirited than a city street, but I do love how it feels. The Challenger has fast ratio pitman, with a power box, and has done both autocross and track days. See if someone local will let you drive their car with a power/manual and see which one you like. I'll leave the keys for the Dart if you can make it to Phoenix!!!