Even if you don't plan to mod, I would recommend a stick. If you drive in heavy traffic 10% of the time, you will regret having bought an automatic 90% of the time. Even in heavy traffic when I have to take the freeway to my friend's house in rush hour, its really not a pain to drive.
3.0 v 1.8T all depends on what you plan to do, just like others have said. The 3.0 is fast, but doesn't give you much room to mod, while the 1.8T is not quite as powerful stock, but can definitely be modded to hell (just ask TomRitt). Plus I like the sporty feel and the pull of a turbo
What colors are you looking at?
Cameron
PS: I just noticed your very subtle "Audiforums.com" in your sig line bentframe. I like it!