Don't recall him saying it was faster than the GTR, just that it felt more frightening? Perhaps just my take.
I really rate the ST, think it's a really good all-rounder, especially considering what you can pick one up for these days. Though I think I might actually prefer the C30/S40/V50 if it was purely a daily runner, as Volvo's are usually pretty refined beasts. Not really ever spent any time in one though, so can't comment for sure.
The old 5 pot turbo was a great engine though. Can't beat a five cylinder turbo for noise.