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I'd like to add that the useful torque from 1500 - 3000 rpm is just fine. I drive my FR-S like an econobox around town utilizing the lower torque curve. Between 2000 and 3000, the engine responds well, will pull (albeit gradually) from in 5th gear quite nicely. I cruise below 40 mph in 5th most of the time and can shift into 6th at 40 IF I am not climbing a hill. I find I can short shift and get over 30 mpg consistently (as high as 34 mpg). However, whenever I want to run it up, then the powerband kicks in quite nicely above 4500 rpm.
Net, Net. I do not find the torque dip a particular issue since the engine pulls pretty well at lower RPM. I can drive the car up to 70 mph in 6th gear (3000 rpm) and still have decent highway acceleration. I can shift down to 4th for stronger acceleration from 45-70+.
My use of the gears:
1st - From a stop to 15 (nanny mode) or 35 (gonzo mode)
2nd - Accelerate up to 35 (nanny mode) or up to 55 (gonzo mode)
3rd - Constant speed at 25 mph (nanny mode) or stronger acceleration 35-50
4th - Constant speed at 30 mph (nanny mode) or stronger acceleration 45-70+
5th - Cruise at 35-40mph (nanny mode) or stronger acceleration 55 - 70+
6th - Highway cruise 40 and higher, decent acceleration above 70 mph.
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