the driving mechanics aren't as good as Midnight Club 3, but after spending a decent amount of time with LA, I think a big part of it is the weird camera. Every single camera option is terrible. It's so weird since Midnight Club 3, even the PSP game, had good driving cameras. it does kind of feel like you're car has a giant ball in the middle that causes you to spin in unnecessary ways.
I'm still enjoying it, just not as much as Midnight Club 3. AI is shit tho. Both the other racers, civilians, and cops are really annoying. Are drivers in LA so distinguished mentally-challenged that they would drive into a car? it's like they won't deviate from their predetermined paths.