The other advantage of an auto is that I can run a very high stall converter. That will keep me within a narrower RPM band so I don't have to waste time as the turbine spools up.
The next thing to think about is setting up a regenerator. Fuel milage is going to be bad, and I'll have to run 90 miles. I'm thinking of sticking an intercooler in the exhaust so it heats the intake air instead of cooling it. Possible do a shell and tube type with the exhaust passing through the tubes and intake coming in through the shell.