First came the SSM (Sport Study Model) then came the concept most people are familiar with- the SSX. The SSM had the coolest headlights that were mounted VERY low in the front fascia, on the same level as the air intake. Unfortunately these headlights were too low for production/safety reasons.
This original concept was put together with a 6-speed sequential transmission, and if memory serves me correctly there was a display in the center of the dash that showed the gear selection.
As an avid HONDA Motorcyclist (1985 650 Nighthawk with 47,000 miles) I have come to really appreciate the digital display between the tach and speedo of the gear selection. With a 10,500-rpm and a 6-speed gearbox there have been a few times I really needed that indicator to make sure I was not downshifting into 1st gear.
Out of 1st at 45 mph, out of 2nd at 65 mph, out of 3rd at 85 mph, got 3 more gears to go and the Nighthawk is pulling hard. Yea!!!

Triple-H
HOOD

 

Ray, the system in the MR2 and Celica is an "auto-stick." You get buttons on the steering wheel etc. but you still have a clutch-less automatic transmission (GS300/400 like). That's why it is slower (1 less ratio and much more parasitic loss). A true SMG box for the S2K would be awesome. The Ferrari's double clutches and auto blips the throttle on shifts with a precision I could never hope to match, in fractions of a second. The BMW will automatically rev to peak launch rpm's if you hold the selector from a standstill, ensuring a consistent max-performance launch every time. And the great part is I'm still in control of what gear, when. A great compromise of driver involvement while masking driver deficiencies.