Back when mine was auto, I was running 5.29's with 32's. Speedo was a bit off, it read high, but the throttle responce and the ability to keep up with traffic with the oversize tires was good.
Definatly go the gears. You'll thank yourself for it!

1986 Pickup extracab longbed "Woody edition"
SAS - 33's, 5.29's, lockright rear.

02 IS300 SportCross - my "DD"
94 2wd v6 extracab
04 Outback Wagon- wife's/family car