[drew300]

I've seen an Astro with a 2.5L 4 cylinder, 5 speed manual. I haven't heard of a manual for the 6.
I like manual shift too, but not on a 4500 lb vehicle and towing too. Automatics make it simple.
Computers: I'm not fond of them either, but they're a cheap way to meet pollution specs. Learn to live with them, or try a bicycle.
If there was a cheaper way to meet pollution spec, don't you think somebody would be using that system?