The manual console is different, it has no top plate. The hole for the shifter is part of the console and smaller than the auto top plate, as I recall.
This isn't the case for a 69 at least. I was able to flip my entire console over and remove the auto top plate and just swap in the manual one. It was a direct fit and just a few fasteners.
http://www.TheFOAT.com/92GTA 1969 Pontiac Firebird w/BP 461ci stroker kit, 670 heads & XE274H cam. Primer black with black interior. 1992 Pontiac Trans Am GTA w/SLP Performance Package. Dark Jade Grey Metallic, grey leather, T-Tops.
