For low doller output the C4 is great and it can be modified to take 1000 HP if you ever want it. If you have lots of money and want an overdrive then the AOD is your best choice.
C4 is one great little transmission. Easy to work on and many build possibilities. As for a manual, the stock 3 speed is a top loader just like it's bigger brother 4 speed. The 3 speed is cheap to find compared to a 4 speed and basically just as tough.
take into consideration that rebuilding that AOD will be a lot more than having the C4 rebuilt. I think the C4 is also a lot easier to rebuild if you decide to do it yourself. I remember it cost me less $500 to have my C6 rebuilt on another car and I got quoted $1200 for the A4OD.
My .02... C4 for auto tranny. Overdrive toploader 4 speed for manual. (or 3+1, or OD 3 speed, whatever it's name is this week) AOD if you got some extra dough to put into it.
