This thread is shifting towards what can be had in this price range, so tS model aside, this is my opinion:
I imagine that before many owners here bought their BRZ, they compared the price of this vehicle to a new WRX. They were pretty damn close, when I was cross-shopping the two. At that point, the obvious question to me (as someone who didn't require extra cargo space or AWD, but likes both cars in question) was, "do I prefer more power, or better handling?" I can't have both at $28k.
I still stand by my earlier comment that I'd love to see plenty of upgrade options (i.e a factory turbo) in the future, but if your clamoring for more power from the Subaru at this price, I likely might've bought a WRX instead.
I knew what I was getting into with this car. I was prepared to be out-accelerated at a red light. ....who cares? Why are you trying so hard? haha. I'm much more interested in finding a curvy road, or an open on ramp and revving the FA20 out. It's a blast.
Side note: Did anyone follow motor trends 10 Best Driver's Cars last year? Pretty accurate perspective (although exaggerated by comparing it to supercars) on what the BRZ can and can't do for under $30k.