Got a base 2012 Camaro convertible at MIA
http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/6280/carbt.jpg
I really like the transmission. Compared with the mustang it has closer ratios specially first and second and the manual mode with paddle shifters auto blips the throttle while downshifting . The engine sounds good but only has power at higher rpms. You were spot on about the brakes they are mushy and feels like you wont stop. The interior is way better and have a lot more options then the 2012 base mustang convertible that I drove.
Because of the tranny and the options I found the Camaro more fun to drive, it doesn't drive better then the mustang but I really enjoy shifting the gears myself.
Btw this car has 8200 miles on, it is classified as a STAR (standard convertible) but I found it at the specialty isle at National/Alamo at MIA.