emilio is correct, its not so much an automatic but an electronically controlled way to shift. many people are on one side of the fence or another, while i am torn. For a murcie or diablo, i would always say go with the 6 speed as that is the true supercar/exotic form....you can really feel the power of those beasts with the manual gearbox.

for a gallardo, however, i am somewhat partial to e-gear. back when my dad had an e-gear gallardo (as the current gallardo is 6 speed), i loved the way the e-gear worked with the size and snappines of the murcie's little brother. the gallardo is a go-cart of sorts compared to its bigger cousins, and the e-gear only provides more of that feel. like i said, i like both types of gear box just as well, but for someone not too skilled in manual (or who doesnt want to put in the time to learn) e-gear is the way to go.

since you are getting a used gallardo, my bet would be that an 04 is what youll be purchasing. keeping this in mind, make sure you get A) either a gallardo who's e-gear has had the stage 3 (am i right on terminology) upgrade done to it or B) have the dealer put the uprade on it. platinum you are right is respected by many, and maybe they can work out a deal with you on that.

some people have experienced problems with e-gear....i havent once and truly unjoy ripping through the gears at the flick of a finger.

Happy Driving and good luck in your search for a fantastic Lamborghini!!