Why is it that almost every listing that says "manual" is actually an automatic?

Most cars today have number 2 or "L" this allows you to change the gears so in the sense its a manual. It's not a true automatic as with a car car euipped with an automatic gear box. But it still lets you select a gear.

Well, it's very difficult to determine which cars are candidates if you want a manual shift. I think the little addition that you describe is still more like an automatic than a manual.

A true manual will have a clutch, Some people list it as a manual just to get you to read there add. Most cars these days are auto's with a + or - shifter, so you can shift it from low to high, like a manual, and in that mode, you can run the RPM's up before changing gears,risking blowing your trans,if not being very careful not to go over 4500-5000 in one single gear.D,S,L, in most cars. but Chryslers, will automatically shift into second gear at 5000 RPM's if it's a four speed trans from low I know it can bee frustrating, but thats the game.hope this helps