I shouldn't have said that. I havent owned a 3.0, but I am just used to reading a lot of people talking about burnt valves, and head gasket issues. It's just that the 22r(e) has a reputation that the 3.0 doesn't have. I read many more disparaging remarks about the 3.0. Sorry for the
irresponsible post.

As for the automatic issue, my 22re auto isnt fast, but I never think to myself I cant wait to show everyone how fast i can go. I drove a stick for 15 years, my shifting shoulder had enough. On another note, my auto tows better than any manual I ever drove. 2L sorta eliminates the torque converter benefit in the 4x4s but I really like towing with an auto. NO burned clutches and no stalling in difficult terrain, no fuss on highways with cruise. The only thing I miss is 2 mpg