buying new B6-stick or Tiptronic?

[William Magliocco]

OK, it's going to be a Passat.  In my opinion, close
enough to a A4 and other Audi products to be on the
list.  Besides, it is a generic question about VAG
transmission choices in a new car.

As some may note from last week's post, I am able to
buy a new VW product through a special employee deal
via my employer.  I can't broadcast the details, but
it is good enough for me to make my first new car
purchase in 22 years.

I have narrowed other parameters down well enough to
have it boil down to this last question:  Stick or
Tiptronic?

My first Audi was a '86 5kTurbo FWD sedan.  The
absolute worst part of that car was the VW made a/t.
On the other hand, I currently have a '93 100 with a
ZF made, electronically controlled a/t.  I've had no
beefs with it, and have fed it a steady diet of Dexron
II ATF I get special from the local Shell/Quaker State
Lubes warehouse. 

But the Tiptronic is something altogether new to me. 
I understand it is made by Isien, a Japanese company
(spelling might be off on the name).  

Any opins on what I should do?

I'm well aware of the "fun to drive" factor a stick
gives you, but an a/t might be more realistic choice,
as long as they are reliable.  I also want to have the
car equipped in a way that would allow for a quick
sale if I lost my job tomorrow.  A stick would not
have as many takers...

I'm really looking for reliabliity information more
than anything else.

Thanks,
Bill in ATL.

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