Bought in October and already souped-up. Sounds like a real beast! Do you have a forum journal?
1.) I have about 30 years of experience driving manual. I haven't stalled it yet, but I find that I rev a little to high when taking off.
2.) Asphalt on asphalt. What was that bump in the road.

The small size doesn't bother me as much as other driver's poor driving skills. There seems to be an overwhelming number of bad and aggressive drivers in the MD/DC/VA area. I also find that I have to be especially watchful as visibility to the left and right in this car is a challenge for me.
3.) I installed RAAM Mat in my Forester XT. Great product.
4.) "Musak covers of Jimi Hendrix"