I think when it was new and even just 5 years old people bought for looks, exclusivity etc but now the only people who are willing to deal with an older car are those that live to drive ... and we want 5 spds.
When I bought my car the owner had put on some cheap ass tires that rode nice and lasted forever - no tracion and handled poorly - but he didn't care. That is why he was selling it - he was not an enthusiast.