Bob I understand why it seems like you need to compare a Prius to an auto tranny Corolla, it is an apples to apples comparison. What you don't seem to understand is that it is not the Corolla's fault that the Prius is only available in a "auto" or "CVT" but not in a manual. What is important is what the end purchaser would actually buy. If an auto style transmission is a requirement of the purchaser or the purchaser's spouse then you should compare auto to auto (or CVT). However if the purchaser prefers a manual (or at least does not care) then a comparison between a Prius and a MT Corrolla is perfecly valid.