Hey mate.
i went from a manual r32 gtst into an auto S1 stagea, and i love it. like you, i was sick of the whole "skyline" scene, and didnt want to get any unwanted attention anymore.
i love the fact that i can put anything and everything in the back of the stag, and not have to worry. as for spirited driving, they are fairly quick considering the weight they have to lug around, around bends such as the GOR it felt pretty good for stock suspension, not as good as my 32, but good in terms of how heavy n shit it actually is. if u wanted to get it handling better, speak to SydneyKid on these forums. he can get you whiteline products which most of the stagea guys use and they seem pretty happy with it.
the stagea is heaps more quiter on the road, and is heaps more luxurious than the 32. i got mine with the leather and electric seat package, and twin sunroofs. i love it and wont go back, unless i can afford an r32 gtr as well as the stagea lol.
hope that helps
jarryd.