Stiffer springs and larger sway bars are really a night-and-day difference to the suspension. Where the 240 suspension shines is its simplicity - it is not the best design for riding-on-rails handling, but it is VERY easily tuned to be what you want it to be. If you have never driven a 240 with brand new bushings and shocks, ipd sways and stiffer springs, then you can't judge the platform's potential. However, as you said, the stock 240 suspension is far from sporty.

Unfortunately, as handling improves in the 240, harshness increases, unlike some new cars I have ridden in which seem to float on a cloud, but still handle well. What the newer, more comfortable suspensions lack (usually) is the feedback - you can feel the road in a 240 as well as if you were walking it barefoot.

That's my take. I like to think of a well-tuned 240 suspension as comparable to a vintage sports car's, but not equivalent to modern designs.