So for my first car I found a real slick 2004 subaru impreza wagon 173,000km on it I can't wait until I get to pick it up but its auto which isnt all the great

Good Luck with that. Auto is great, just needs a bit more maintenance than standard, like fluid changes, and transmission cooler hose and line replacement.

  2 hands on the wheel more often with auto. Stick shift lasts longer generally, yes,and one can push start and "pop the clutch" to get started in the event of a low 

 battery or starter problem. But in these days of high traffic volume, and illegally "texting" drivers, 2 hands on the wheel tend to be more appealing.

 Wasn't it Jim Morrison who sang?: Uh keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel.