The reason the SVT didn't come with an automatic is that it was billed as a "driver's car", and if you aren't shifting gears, you are just along for the ride. Besides, in a performance car, an automatic will simply lose more power in the drivetrain than a manual shift.
One of the reasons I bought my SVT is because it was not offered with an automatic. So when I see another one on the road, I know the person behind the wheel can actually drive. No offense meant to anyone the drives a slushbox, but I personally like to be able to choose the gear my car is in at all times. My wife's car is NEVER in the gear I want it to be in.
