3 years ago when I first looked at road bikes I rode a Specialized Secteur. Then the sales person gave me another Secteur and said try this one. When i got back I told him it shifted so much nicer and he said it had 105 and was more expensive.
So for as a first time rider i noticed it right away.
I wound up getting a bike with Sram Rival and just purchased a new bike with Red.... huge difference.