IS manual really better than automatic ??

I am planning to do an h22 swap on my 94 auto accord EX... but was wondering is it worth it to convert to manual instead of the cheaper route to keep it auto... WIll it make the car that much faster ?? Horsepower wise and also quarter mile wise ??

With the spare money i save from the keeping it auto i could invest in some headers, intake, exhaust, pistons, cams, etc. to add more horsepower. RIght ?