manual question.

RDGR12

The Z with an automatic transmission will probably lose in a straight line run. From a dyno result that have been posted here, the loss of power from an automatic is greater than that in a manual transmission. Technically, it wouldn't matter how much faster the auto may be able to shift. Unless, the transmission is the same as that of the current GTR... then, that's a different story.

Back to topic --

Forrest... If you want a smooth acceleration from a hill no matter how steep it is, I personally suggest for you to learn how to blip the throttle in partially engaged clutch. Blip the throttle gentle enough to keep the car from rolling back and to create enough momentum to get the car moving forward; until you reach the point to be able to accelerate as if you're rolling from a flat surface. This involves working the clutch to engage enough so that it doesn't stall; at the same time working the gas enough to hold and move the car forward.

It's a tricky technique, but if you master it, steepness of the hill wouldn't matter to you, at all.

When I was learning, I find it harder to hold the gas, while working the clutch to find that engagement point to move the car smoothly. This way, you can find that engagement without possibly burning the clutch or lurching forward.