I totally agree with OP, the Z34 transmission leaves a lot to be desired add in the fact that the CSC can be an issue especially with modifications and it makes it all that much harder to love.
The AT isn't without issue, if you're looking for more power the AT won't hold up and will require pricey upgrade mods.
In my experience, I'll be honest I hated it. I hated the clunky feeling, I hated how vague it felt and compared to the rest of the Z's surprisingly quality build I feel like they just cut their effort on the gear box. I changed out the MT tranny fluid and it was much better but still not ideal.
All in all, the MT transmission made the decision to sell my Z much easier. I routinely drive my buddies' STi, s2k and 1M. Every time I used to get back in my Z it was such a downer
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2009 Carbon Fiber/Red 370z aka Trish: Sports Package, Meisterschaft full catback, Fast Intentions Longtube Headers, Injen Long Tube Intakes, UpRev Tune: Sold
2008 Lotus Exige S Club Racer aka Bella, always leaves me smiling