It's a shame that Jag dont do the F-Type with a manual.
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They do make a manual V6 but not a V8. But the ZF 8 speed box with flappy paddles is a great compromise. For town traffic you can use full auto whilst for the open road you have a clutchless manual with lightning fast changes.
You're right they do. However it seems that it's pretty rare! Over 300 cars on Autotrader; only 11 with a manual! Wow!
I think with a GT-style car most people will go auto. Especially for daily use as well.
As you say, that ZF box is pretty good.