Auto vs. Manual

[240search]

I have owned and maintained a 91 240sx manual for 2 years. I always thought it was fairly fast. recently I bought a another 91 240sx for my wife which is a auto. both cars are in great condition, no engine,tranny flaws whatsoever.  since purchasing the auto 240sx, it seems it has better pick up then my manual 240sx, which disappoints me. and my manual 240sx has no problems what soever. it is so smooth, but this auto picks up much faster. no mods in both cars, only intakes.

If you think about it, both cars are estimated at 155hp. manual has 5 speed. auto has 4 speed, Do you think it only takes 4 gears to reach to 155hp and it takes 5 gears to reach that. does that explain why the auto feels faster. I know many of you may disagree, but after driving a manual 240sx, have you tried a automatic 240sx?
its sad, but it has better pick up for some reason