vettnut

This past week I was in San Antonio for a convention. I went over to Billy Dawson's shop known as Corvette Correction. You will be hard pressed to find a more friendly, informative car guy. He showed me all around. Many parts and projects going on. I mentioned to Billy, I wondered what an auto would be like behind one of these LS engines. Well, we took one for a ride. Tire burning SOB. He has one of his customer cars with 2 pushbuttons for up/down shifting one gear. Sort of like paddle shifting. Great idea. What are the pros and cons of a T56 vs auto. I have always been a stick man. I am warming up to the auto after this drive. Cost: 4L65E Auto is less, but control harness, cooler, etc. What else? Also, when GM built the C4's, automatic cars came with the less expensive Dana 36? If I used a 36, what gear ratio is preferred with an auto setup? If I have to step up the gears, maybe I will still go with the 44. I will not be drag racing this car.
Thanks DG