I have never used an AE1, but I can use my AE1P with special "program" lenses that allow me just to point and shoot if I want. I have a 220mm manual zoom lens and a 50mm lens that have this feature (released around the same time as the camera) and by turning the dial all the way to "program" on...
If you want a good manual SLR camera... I would recommend the Canon AE-1 Program (or AE1P). Good for making professional quality shots along with a "program" feature that allows you do point-and-shoot when you feel lazy ;) ^this is the camera I will always use... very reliable! For newer...