To get back to the point if autosurfs are better than hyip's I can confirm that just by looking at the benefits of each. You have have an equal chance to loose your money, you will be ignored as much as with any other scheme, and as you walk out with nothing atleast you promoted your business doing the autosurf.
If there should be any difference between the 2 it should be the fact wether you get paid or not. Be sceptic for every claim they state! In many cases your first reaction is the right choice, however if they manage to convince you with the shiny wrapping paper of their opportunity package, do a little info digging and spare yourselves the negative feelings of beeing hustled.
So in conclusion I would say autosurf is the way to work, hyip's are the way to gamble.
I believe nobody can claim their business opportunity is 100% money guaranteed and scam free, cuz you may be an affiliate, and when the owner decides it's time to empty pockets yours will be emptied as well.
In all cases protect yourself like condoms doing birthcontrol!