Mileage on our 95 3.0 with MT versus 98 3.5 SOHC is better for the 98 by <2 MPG. Note that the 98 has ~80k and the 95 ~145.

As for prefered trannies, that depends on personal style, though few would argue the better ultimate strength of the AT.

If you get a Gen II MT, you will be in a very, very exclusive club- at least in the US. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Big Truck: 00, 3.5, Endeavor, 5-Spd drive line in hand!
Little Truck: 87, 2.6T I/C, MT, LSDs, Tonneau Top
Her Truck: 03, 3.8, 20th Anniv, 65k
Daughter's: 06 Eclipse, Keeping it Mitsu!
FSMs: MitsubishiLinks.com