[Bob R]

Ok, this is a serious question. Try not to laugh too hard.

I have always wanted to own a corvette, but my lovely wife has never liked them (because 30 years ago she dated some a$$hole who drove one!!). We have been married over 25 years and she has finally (and reluctantly) agreed to let me buy a corvette.

This is great news, but my dillemma now is which one? I really like the stats and feel of the newer Z06's with 405 hp, but am concerned about the manual transmission. I haven't driven a manual since the 1980's when I owned a Mazda RX7 and a BMW M6, both of which I loved. My wife thinks that I'll get tired of shifting and says that I'm not that good a driver, and that my reflexes are not quick enough to drive the manual (I am 50 with no obvious disabling neurologic deficits except I'm pretty anal and neurotic). To boot, my co-workers say that I don't drive fast enough to own a corvette, and are not being terribly supportive. (My son is encouraging, but that's probably because he'll want to drive the car....he currently drag races a modded '97 Camaro).

I am moving to Florida in a few months (West Palm Beach area) and will be able to enjoy this car year-round. I am torn at this point, and wonder if I will be "biting off more than I can chew" with this car.

Any advice or opinions????

Bob