LOL, I'm not trying to change your opinion. I do take stock in what test drivers say about what they drive. Unlike most people they get a chance to drive a lot of different things and can compare many different cars and trucks at once.
Have you driven a new Vett with an 8 speed auto? If not, how do you know you won't enjoy it more? You might? You might not?
Most of my cars were standard. They were fine and worked well. I have no idea if I would like the auto better or not?
I have driven my friends BMW M with paddle shift. I also works well because it's like driving a standard with the advantage of an auto. But I have never driven a new C6 Vett with 8 speed so I don't if I would like it better or not?