Here's my 99 cents:

My 142 doesn't develop speed as much as it gains momentum - at some point you realize your doing 60, but it takes awhile. Don't plan on getting anywhere fast.

Also, invest in some hearing protection. If you intend to drive on the highway, you'll find it's a noisy car. I thought it was my car until I had the opportunity to drive others. All loud. Sound barriers like Dynamat (Ice Shield, for me) have helped some.

Like you, my "new" 245 with the 4 speed stick is a great car -- 180 degrees from the 140.

That said, the 142 has 325K on her - has put up with all my 'mechanical experiments' - and shows no signs of giving up. You gotta love that.