Back 10 years ago I had an MK5 GTI with an APR stage 1 tune, six speed manual. It came with an aftermarket short shifter and perhaps the synchros were going bad as it would occasionally grind going into 2nd gear at high rpms, and I'd have to go back to neutral, clutch, and re-engage. Typically not a big deal unless racing someone (of course)...
So I found myself driving alongside a 2007ish Mustang with Shelby badges all over it. Way too many stickers and badges to be real. I strongly suspected it was a V6 with wheels, stripes, and a dual exhaust. We ended up at a light together where it merged about 1000 feet ahead. As the stop light turned yellow for the cross traffic, Mr V6/Shelby-Imposter starts creeping with his foot on the brake, so it was obviously an automatic and clearly not a Shelby. So, naturally, I felt compelled to put him in his place.
The light turned green, and we both launched. The sound of a V6 Mustang with Flowmasters was music to my ears for the first time ever as I then knew with certainty that I had him outgunned. I put about a car length on him through 1st gear while struggling for traction. I was so eager to get into 2nd and 3rd knowing full well that I would completely destroy this wannabe douche-bag. However, as I grabbed 2nd gear, all I heard was a grinding noise, and it wouldn't engage... Son-of-a bitch, I MISSED 2ND GEAR. I lifted, went back to neutral, clutched, and got back into 2nd. By now, though, I was out of boost, and out of hope. The upbadged Mustang surged ahead to the merge and got in front of me. I was so irritated and ashamed, both at my own ineptitude and the surge of confidence that the other driver falsely achieved by thinking he had the faster car.
I now have a DSG GTI, by the way...