Test Drive

Hey all! I'm considering joining the club. I had planned on getting a V8 mustang, but came across some other options and wanted to look into them. The BRZ is definitely intriguing. Coming from a '16 Malibu Limited, I want something fun to drive.

There are almost 0 new BRZ within 100 miles of me. There are 2, but they're both automatic. If I got the automatic, but put it on manual mode, is there much tangible difference in terms of performance?

I know the physical differences of actually driving it, but, for example, the auto is pinned at like 7.7 seconds 0-60, while the manual is pegged at like 6.2 seconds. What about the automatic being run with manual mode?

I've never driven a manual before, and only had 2 cars in my life (I'm 21, an 08 Dodge avenger with a 2.7l v6 and my Malibu).

I basically want faster acceleration for when I want it, but also fun to drive. It seems like the BRZ is a great middle ground since the mustang's handling and cornering was unimpressive.

Also, are there many noticable differences between the Toyota 86 and the BRZ in the actual DRIVE and FEEL? There's plenty of manual 86's around me that I can test drive and then decide on the car that way if they feel the same.

Thank you for all of your help in advance!!

EDIT: Also, is there much of a difference in the drive and feel of the car through the last few years? I've heard no, but then I see that people said 2017 actually did make some noticable changes.