I'm planning to swap my automatic to T5.
I certainly want a pleasure of changing the gears myself, but also want a better feeling (I hate Auto's slippy feeling).

How much difference do you feel after the swap?
Is it worth doing that?
I don't care much about the actual speed, like 0-1/4 mile time.
I do care the feeling and the pleasure of shifting gears and revving the engine.

I appreciate opinions of the owners who actually swapped the transmission.
Thanks.

 

It will completely change the car. It will be a little faster but more importantly you will have more control over what the car does and when.

 

Best modification I have done to my car, no regrets. I went from a 305TPI to a 383TPI, then from Auto to manual. If I had choice I would rather have a 305 5 speed than a 383 auto. It completely changes the car, much more fun to drive. I put a pro5.0 short throw shifter when I did the swap, would recommend that.

 

Same.... I'd rather have a 305 T5 car than a 350 A4 car.

 

Thank you guys.

I was a little bit worried about my 305 engine because it's not so powerful.
But after hearing your impressions I no longer have any hesitation to swapping to a manual.

As you said, I need more control and more fun.
My 305 engine makes a nice sound when revved thanks to a Borla, so I hope a manual trans can make it a lot easier to enjoy the sound together with a direct feeling.

I need some time to save money, but I'll definitely go for the swap soon.

 

search my name. i did it pretty recently and did a whole write up about it. if you plan on doing this you WILL need a parts vehicle