actually, SS-IIIs started production in Aug 95, just didn't put the beams in until '98. i've bounced the the chassis code around on here... ST202-BLPZF (which is on the plate in my car) is an Automatic SS-III.
Taken from here2.0 SS-III
produced: 08/95 - 08/99
model: ST202-BLMZF (MTM), ST202-BLPZF (ATM)
engine: 3S-GE vvt-i, 210BHP (98-99); 3S-GE, 177BHP (95.8-97)
more info: all models RHD, liftbacks
more info
heresorry to break your heart that not all SS-IIIs totally kick.