IMO I would say go for the auto. Not only for the resale value, but also b/c the X5 is more of an activity vehicle where we can install tons of fun little gadgets. Don't get me wrong. I am completely in love with manual cars. Especially on my e46 M3. But b/c the X5 (somehow in my mind anyways) somehow promotes installation of fun toys like stereo systems, PS2s, computers, etc...for road trips, a stick car would just be too much.

__________________
Lemans Blue X5 4.8is
Dynaudio
Diamond TDX 12" subs x 2
Xtant X604 x 2
Xtant X1001 x 1
VST 7" LCD x 2