The hardest thing to learn is starting from a stop on a hill. I'd avoid any situtation like that until you are more used to the car and how to quickly slip the clutch while at a stand still.

 

best way to learn is to buy one and start driving. Just take your time, don't panic, and it will become second nature.

 

^this.

What I did when I was learning how to do hills was to pull the e-brake and hold it until I felt the car start to go and would gradually let off the e-brake. It's definitely not the best thing to do but it's better than rolling back into the car behind you. LOL

 

im not even sure if they rent out manual cars anymore, but if they do it wouldnt be a terrible idea to rent one for a day or two. that way, when your practicing your steep inclines and what not, your not burning up the clutch in your new S

 

the answer to ur proplem in one word, "drivingschool"

 

Im buying my Fiancee' an S in a few months, it will be her first manual car as well, just take your time, find a nice big open, empty, closed parking lot with a buddy and have fun and learn the basics. and dont beat yourself up if you manage to stall out a few times! and good luck with your potential future S

 

If you know the fundamentals just get in and drive. It's not rocket science. I taught myself to drive stick one night when I was 15 years old and my friend was too drunk to drive home.

Until you get good at it just use the handbrake when your stuck on a hill.

 

To be honest, newer cars are easier to drive overall than older ones I think. I learned on an 80s oldsmobile in minimal time. I think the S is one of the easier clutches to drive, and the transmission is one of the best out there.

 

The S is a great car to learn on. Once you get it, you'll never go back to an automatic!

 

Everything these guys have said is right. This was my first manual car also. My friend taught me in his Jeep 2 days before I picked up the S.