I would say auto all the way! I can not think of any time when a manual is better. I love driving automatics on road and off road. They are better in every way.
But, if I was going to the middle of nowhere I would prefer to take a manual.
Autos do use a little more fuel (yes Chris they do! but not a great deal -leave that for another time...), autos can get hot if driven VERY hard for a long time. This can reduce the life of the gearbox. Also (like you say) it is not possible to push start the car if the battery, starter motor or alternator pack up. Like Chris says there is little chance you will need to do this, and if you do it will be difficult anyway, but with a manual you do have that option.
Autos are very reliable and in theory there is less to go wrong, but if they do go wrong there is a good chance you won't be able to move, and you will not be able to find anyone to fix it, and if you do it will be £2000.
If a manual gearbox goes wrong it is much easier to fix and there is a chance you could crawl along to the next village.

If you can get an auto that is low mileage in tip top condition, then do it! I would suggest fitting an extra gearbox oil cooler kit as well (£148.29 from me!)

Cheers,
Matt Savage

PS, I know where there is a very nice white 80 manual for sale with loads of kit!!

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