Sorry to drop in on Tassie, but I have an auto33, as well as the manual 33 and GTR33 and around town with a bit of extra power it is the goods. Quick off the line and zippy through traffic. Comfortable as well.
The 33 auto can be tricked up nicely with a kit from adelaide so do a search. It also has a small cooler for the box but get a larger one for when you start to punish it. When getting the new solenoid pack service the box and get new fluid. I also recommend the Jaycar boost controller and digital fuel adjuster with hand controller in Funkymonkeys group buy as a PowerFC is not great with the auto.
Don't knock the auto until you try it. I've raced for 20 years and know guys who get on the circuit in autos, even V8 Soarers and do respectable times. Like anything, if thrashed maintenance and protection is the key.
Hope that helps.