I have never, ever, seen a non-ac car with a block off plate... however I do see that part in the parts book... 72531-60b00... suzukicarparts.com lists it for $32.58.

As for which were sold more in the US, they were most certainly NOT automatics. Of the 5 year (89-94) production for gt(i)'s in the US, the auto was available for only 2 years.

I have been running my 89 gti for 3 years with no overheating issues with the ac condenser removed (and no plate in it's place).... Well, i did have some nuisance overheating from a poorly plumbed heater core, but since fixing that I've been a-ok. I must stress again, this radiator is ludicrously small, and these are all aluminum engines.... overheating is not an issue.