I have built and flown an RV6, two RV8s and now have the RV12. I also have time in Rv7s and 7As as well as RV9 and 9As.
My favorite was the Rv6. It was fast, and very consistent on landings regardless of the weight.
The RV8s are the sexiest of the lot in my opinion and you can't beat the center line seating for fighter like flying, but they are harder to consistently make really good landings in.
RV7s are similar to the -6, but the ones I have flown were all heavier and not as sporty as the -6.
The RV12 is my second favorite. They are very short field for TO&L especially single pilot and visibility for sight seeing is superb. They are also roomier due to the shape of the canopy and I like the comfortable seating. If you have long legs the RV12 will be comfortable for you. It is extremely fun to do TO&Ls seeing how smoothly you can touch down while holding the nose gear off the runway for the whole procedure. Car gas Is also cheaper and you only use about 5 GPH. It is a great plane for giving YE rides since it is easy to get in and out of. ( if only It was a tail dragger:-0)
On the other hand, the RV12 and Rotax engine have had a lot of SBs and at least in my opinion, this is the biggest issue with the RV12. (If you have the S-LSA version you must comply with all SBs but even with the E-LSA version I'd recommend you comply.)
Having said all that, I still love the RV-12 and rarely miss the other RV models, but then again I'm not a big traveler any more and do mostly local flying.
All the RVs I have flown are exceptional planes to fly, but I guess the best one is the one you happen to be in at the moment!
Have fun choosing. You can't go wrong as long as it is an RV!