Yet another FYI:
The Subaru 4EAT's ( automatics) OWN the Sticks. Its just a fact. The Subaru Automatics contain the most advanced AWD system being used in production cars right now. The Manuals contain technology going back 20 years.
Also the Automatics can take WAY more power than the Manuals, which if you were to turbo that 2.5L plant to 300 Hp, an Auto could take it where as the Manual would shred gears.
some of the fastest WRX's and RS's around are Automatics

its so funny to see people knock the 4EATS and then get spanked by them
BTW I have a '02 2.5RS with an Automatic