manual trannies are lighter and give you better gear selection and (as far as I know) are more efficient than automatics...
and #2.. good question. its pretty much up in the air but keep check on sites like www.car-truck.com for info/rumors..
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Offroading Spots near Tampa
Green markers = Pay spots
Blue markers = safe free spots
Red markers = not so safe free spots (possible trespass issues)