This thread's progression made me laugh. OP goes from two fwd f/i domestic sedans to a rwd sports car. Out of the 3 cars in the first post, I'd say S2k would have my vote.

I owned an srt4 and while it was fun, I wouldn't trust it in anything but fair weather.

LS1 may be a good option but gas mileage would deter me from any v8 for a commuter car.

Stick it out with the civic IMO. Saves you money on gas, still 5 spd, and will last forever. Then buy an LS1 as a 2nd toy and mod the crap out of it.

/thread