Last gen Celica, same way (180 hp one), have to rev the snot out of it to be fun too .
( Also as a side note ,the base auto celica had this really annoying whine that wouldn't go away at any speed or gear . Put me right off the car ).
The base RSX automatic had no whine but was horrible off the line .
Put me right off the car . Not suited in auto form at all . Liked everything else about the car though , ride ,handling ,interior . Would have bought it to if it wasn't for the horrible off line performance .
I've owed 2 older Hondas , one an auto and both performed WAY better off the line . The RSX's
are still good cars in their amazing refinement over the integra but better suited as a standard only .
Sounds like sporty cars with their firmer suspension aren't your cup of tea to me . If you drive the S like you stole it they are alot of fun .( Test drive a 350 z , if find its suspension too harsh too , you shouldn't buy that type of car ).