Yeah I def would upgrade the intake because it will be a choke point. The gt40 is a great looking intake just doesn't flow enough. I personally like the Holley intake the best for what you're doing but you can't go wrong with a lot of different brands. Either way you should get into the 12s easily
Yeah i hear ya...thats why i like the AUTO with a turbo spools fast and holds boost thru all the gears..its fun to drive with a Manual VB....
I know everybody and their brother have done it but a blown h/c/i with your 5sp would be cool. That way you can say screw 12s I want 11s!!