Jefla,
I suspect you are firmly in Pilot Sport territory. If they no longer carry 17" sizes (as reported above) you might consider 18" wheels so that you can run wider tires.
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Michelin&tireModel=Pilot+Sport+PS2
My second choice would be the Yokohama AVS Sport, because I love the turn-in but others would go for the s-03 Pole Position. All 3 of these tires are excellent.
I am a big fan of 18" wheels. If I were you, might watch the message boards for a nice set - or if you can't wait go to wheelenhancement.com (for takeoffs). Or if price is really no object have some wheels custom made in just your size and offset.
Can't advise on 2nd gear in a 5 speed - my 6 speed is different. You can buy a B&M shifter to shorten the throw, but that might make things more 'notchy' when shifting.
re: 'driving all the twisties' - come feb, march consider a visit to Dale's track schedule and sign up for some race track fun. If you are interested, it pays to sign up early and often.
http://vista.pca.org/jsr/jsrpca/dales.htm
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