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Took a manual Camaro SS (coupe) for a drive yesterday. The shifter is only marginally better than the Mustang's (so I don't get the adoration to the Tremec or the hate on the MT-82) and the clutch is better but not by much. The LT1 V8 is even a bigger disappointment with the manual than the auto - its torque delivery is not fun and the super tall gearing make it very frustrating to use on the street. The Coyote felt much better (plus the Mustang is geared quite a bit shorter, even with the non-PP 3.55 final drive).
Other aspects of the Camaro were good, same as the automatic convertible test drive - steering and chassis were nice and the car didn't really feel huge and heavy vs. the BRZ.
This leads me to cross out both Camaro (due to engine/transmission combo) and Mustang (due to steering).
Next options are BMW 1 (E88) and 3 (E93) series convertibles - they still have hydraulic steering are not too old (last model years of 2013 and 2011, respectively). So far I'm liking what I'm reading, and should hopefully drive one next week.
Finally, although the original plan was to replace the BRZ with a 4 seat convertible (thus allowing for a higher budget and requiring a newer car), the dearth of options makes me consider a 2 seat convertible to add to the BRZ (at a lower budget, but more open to older cars). Right now an NC Miata is the top contender, and I'm looking for one for a test drive.
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