-My mistake, the E36 M3 is about 400lbs heavier than a turbo FD, you're right
-When it comes to weight, LS1/T56 combo (chevy V8 and the tranny that it uses) really does weigh just as much as a stock turbo 13b. Iron + turbos vs aluminum NA. In fact, from what I've read it seems like doing an LS1 swap in an FD actually improves weight distribution too - 50/50 as opposed to stock, which is good but not quite that perfect.
-I'm not HUGE on torque but I do know that Hondas annoy me (S2000 included) since there is
nothing low down. I don't necessarily need 400lbft right off idle but I do want reasonable torque (therefore sorry S2k and Elise). Turbos are fun for me because even though the torque doesn't kick in until higher up the rev range, once it does hit it hits pretty damn strong. Fun, to say the least
-I agree 100% on lighter cars generally being cheaper, since everything is smaller (hence me looking for a Miata IRL).