Father wouldn't let me learn how to drive a auto. He borrowed a Fully loaded Peterbuilt rig from a friend. When I could make it up to speed and back down successfully 10 times in a row, without stalling the big diesel, I was allowed to flog the Corvette around the neighborhood, also a manual. Early 90's, I was 14 in Missouri with a farm permit. Every car since has been a manual, so I am approaching 21yrs driving 'em