904 to A230 worth the effort?

CCHHAARRGGER! said
No, not from a 3 speed auto to a 3 speed manual. If you really want to enjoy a manual transmission go with 4 gears. Yes the OD are getting pricey, but you will benefit over the auto with an increase in fuel economy. From my point of view you are doing the same thing as swapping to a 4 speed but without the 4 speed.

I hear you there! The only reason I considered the 3 speed is cost. The wagon was $1k so to spend 1k on a transmission is just not worth it to me(personally). I'm probably going to give up on the idea of a manual swap, this hobby is getting too expensive for average joes. Thanks for your input.

Jared