My aging riding mower is nearing replacement. Although it has served
its purpose I think this time I'll go for a lawn tractor that better
fits my 6'4" frame.

For my needs most of the advertised models in the $1,000 - $1,500 range
seem sufficient. Question is the relative value of the automatic
transmission over the regular.

My rider has the manual and has served well without any tranny work.
Other than laziness is there any other advantage warranting the extra
cost to go automatic?