Do check on eBay for an owner's manual... I've seen them there from time to time.

Can't help with your cruise control problem, but there is no audible or visual indicator to let you know it's engaged. The problem could be something as simple as a vacuum leak, so I would get it checked out by a competent shop.

The amber arrow on the dash will light up when you select Winter mode, or if you put the shifter into any forward gear except D (or whatever the top gear is called). Winter mode starts the car in 3rd gear to minimize applied torque and wheelspin. There should also be a Sport mode for your trans; this moves the shift points higher in normal driving, although a pedal-to-the-metal shift will still occur at the same engine rpm as in normal mode.