And also, do you have a different answer for "favorite character" and "character I wish I was friends with IRL"?
When I was younger, it was Makoto for both. Tall, strong, confident, she can kick some ass and defeats more enemies herself than anyone but Sailor Moon. But she's also kind and has a softer side.
Ami was always top 3 for me, but as I'm rewatching the show again for the first time in a long time, I think she might be my favorite now. I'm a little more mature now, and maybe it has something to do with how the world has changed, but I've really developed an appreciation for how Ami treats her friends.
She's kind, but also encourages them to be responsible. She could sometimes be a buzzkill but people need to be reminded that getting important stuff done needs to come before having fun, and that will produce the best long term results for everyone. The world could use a lot of Amis right about now.
As for who you'd most like to be friends with IRL though, wouldn't most people choose Usagi? Her personality is so bright, and she brings the best out of everyone.