I've got a standard. If i have the option I always go with manual trans. Better gas mileage, better winter control, less wear n tear on the brakes, not to mention it gives you something to do, and you don't have to worry about all the auto trans related issues.

But anyway, if your girlfriend doesn't know how to drive a standard, and you're planning on buying one, you better get on teaching her how too. Maybe that sounds crazy to you, but you have to think about an emergency situation. What happens if you're driving along, and have a heart attack, or a seizure, or choke on your big mac, or anything that could cause you to not be able to drive, your passenger should always know how to drive your car. You don't want to be unconcious, and your girlfriend can't explain exactly where you are to 911. No, you want her to be able to get in the drivers seat and get you to the hospital. Everyone should know how to drive a standard for this reason, because you just never know.