Interesting thread. It seems like about an even split. I am somewhat surprised, but then again, the price of upgrades is higher than I anticipated (that's coming from a Ferrari and former Porsche owner! oh yea, and Vette). People seem reluctant to work on anything, or fear breakage, and others love it. I think the 'breakage' is mainly an issue when you get plus 20% HP upgrades. Other upgrades, like breather kits, headers, don't have a downside.
Given my demands for driving performance vehicles at the limit, the Gen 2 main needs are braking, ride (too soft, too much roll, too high), shifter, and reputation for engine fires and bearing failures. I think the power is plentiful, and haven't touched the drivetrain. I like the stock gearing pretty well, although in some situations I wish it was a little higher re. Also the clutch is a little heavy. I would like to put an aluminum flywheel and pressure plate in mine, if I keep it.
I also can relate to the 'sound' issue. The sound of the stock car is nice, but certainly a nice pair of headers, or cat & muffler delete, is on my wish list.
My wife asks, when you get an 08, what are you going to do to it? I guess that will depend on whether it meets my expectations. Good question.