So the deal was I had a chance to give up the 58 (it is a A) that I had just bought last week for the 61. Straight trade. I've sat and flown in both. The 61 has the clean pretty look, runs well and it does have the manual flaps. The 58 has the STOL kit, overhauled instruments, a low hour engine and also runs great. And even in my limited skilled hands the 58 feels great in the air. I know the people that did all the work on the 58 and some work on the 61 and think both planes are find but I am happy to say I'm going to keep the 58.
I may polish it and expand on the NAV equipment and a couple other minor features.
It is not an easy decision when you are new into the sport and most of the feedback was appreciated.
This will be my plane till I am too old to fly anymore and I'm anxious to put hours on its clock.