Now I HAVE TO get bucket seats, shifter won't work on bench seat

Never used a pro stick, never liked the idea of the lever, remembering when to use it, and for what shift.
Dont you have to grab and pull that lever for the 2-3 shift? It looks like it's a foot away from your (supercool) knobber.
Yes you pull the lever for 2-3 shift. It becomes habit after you use it a few times.