Quote Originally Posted by blaknoize View Post
Not really, but u are more aware of whats going on, since I believe (and it may just be me) that regardless of the situation and what is going on. A driver of a manual generally plans ahead (shifts, downshift, antisipated RPM range for likely event) so they would be more aware even with a cell or otherwise.
during a big turn its hard to shift up, keep the wheel turned, and talk on the phone

either way, being more aware of the surroundings is a plus