Ft86?
Auto will have as much lag as a manual if your technique is correct. I get better launches than most of the guys because I'm in a 3.5L as opposed to a 2.5L. I'm usually ahead of mike till he hits third and then boost kicks in.
In an auto, the box will keep the engine at economic revs, not performance revs. You'd be lucky to get any boost when driving. Also, far less control. Also, 25 boxes are virtually indestructible.