Will, you might not recall that for me, too, the first few years of ownership were fraught with peril.
The prospect of having to drop substantial chunks of money into a brand new car just to make it drivable was not well received at home.
But we got past that. Patience and a good mechanic eventually rendered a reliable driver. Good times on the road, in the wine country, and on the coast had an ameliorative effect.
I knew from day one that the car would benefit mightily from an extra gear, but it was always a question of balancing driving tranquility with domestic tranquility. Eventually though, time passed, the stars aligned, and for just a few dollars more, the deed was done.
When you are writing checks, it's impossible to imagine that you will ever forget about those dollars. But you do.
I think it's all a question of how much and how often you drive the thing. No one needs a five-speed. It's an extravagance that makes life a little nicer. I've done nothing to upgrade the cosmetics. I'm still running eight-slot wheels, cardboard carpeting, and a fake Nardi wheel. This was my one indulgence.
When - and if - the time's right, you'll know.