The 7M-GTE in the Soarer only came in auto.. so it is certainly a retrofit.. only the 1G came in a 5 speed manual. I would certainly prefer a manual in mine..
Thanks for the link to my site above..
Gasket problems? Mine went.. but it is more of a weak point then a problem.. fix it properly and treat it right... mine had done 120000k's when it happened.
Heavy for it's size, but goes well and fairly trouble free.