I doubt the 1.2 would be quantifiably faster for your uses. The bike shop employee did have a point regarding the hand positions on the road bike vs. the hybrid.
That said, MANY options exist in lieu of the flat bar. for example, adding bar ends is a cheap way to get a very comfortable alternate hand position. Other styles and shapes of bar exist - this is one area that is quite easy to tweak to your personal taste - the only things to be aware of would be to stick with "flat-bar" diameter bars to allow you to retain the shifters and brakes.
Another thing that makes a big difference on a flat bar bike is grips. Ergons rock.

So, while drop bars do offer more hand positions than typical flat bars, you have a ton of alternatives to "standard" flat bars that essentially negate that advantage.

I say all of this based on your background with mountain bikes. Unless you have an immediate love for the drop bars, you'll probably find the more horizontal bar to feel more natural.

I personally like them both, but tend to prefer a flat bar for most of my riding. The only time I prefer a drop bar is on long road rides.

I've tried a number of flat bar variations, and have personally found my ideal bar. Titec makes a cheaper version under license. YMMV.