As far as comparisons go the EVO vs. the STi has been done many a time. I am not really trying to compare performance because they are very close, too close numbers wise. I was fortunate enough to have gotten the opportunity to drive an STi for myself, I have driven the regular WRX and there is no contest between the two. This is not a discussion of the WRX vs. the WRX STi it is between the EVO. I am going to be in one or the other this time next spring, definitely not a brand new one but one with very low miles 15k-20k.

I have a lot of concerns in mind however I must bring up my intentions of the car, I plan on minor mods and spirited driving, nothing hardcore and no tracks. This car will be my daily driver living in 4 season condition and I intend on slapping on some all season tires. My biggest concern over performance is reliability, transmissions and clutches. I have heard my fair share of horror stories and it can be depressing, I just wish I got a break down of the strong and weak points of these cars durability and a brief assessment of how important these factors should be to me. I love the looks of the EVO, I must say I like them more than the STi… however they are both gorgeous. I look at the specs and it almost seems like the EVO is working harder to make less HP, 19 psi stock while the STi is at 14.5 psi stock and makes about 25 more hp. I have read a million reviews on these cars and it is a back and forth argument, good and bad points of both however I hear that though it may not be that much if any faster you can definitely tell the difference in the STi vs. the EVO in how strong the mid range power is due to the 2.5l over the 2.0 of the EVO… I like the idea of the 6 speed in the STi too. I have some gripes about Mitsubishis past tense turbo history and there issues with the 2g Eclipses, weather or not that is something to take into consideration when measuring how much quality is in there products. I have been informed that the stock clutches are junk on these as is and the Mitsu had the most problems with that, on the other hand I hear the Subaru tranny’s are like glass… I just don’t really understand how you can build a car like this so right and then have weak pieces of the puzzle like this, what car will give me less hassle for my purpose? Can an aftermarket clutch settle my problem and be good for longevity?

Stories can be exchanged day in and day out on which has more problems, it comes down to facts that I wish I had, it almost seems like buying these cars is a hit or miss, an awesome car or problems kinda like battleship… I want one and I will have one however which is the question, I know of TWO EVO’s in Maine from people I do not really know and the dealers are NOT in any way willing to let you BS them into a test drive so how can I compare??? How do they expect the consumer to go about this when Subaru dealers are all for letting you feel it up, and the closest and pretty much only competition makes you buy it on your research alone until the credit check has been done. Could someone give me a break down of fact, the strong and weak points of each car and how I should take them into consideration for my purpose, I am leaning towards EVO because hardly used seem to be easier to find at a good price. Thanks

 

I've never driven an EVO but I own an 05 STI. If you are going to race the car you will break it EVO or STI. I am not planning on racing my car and have no worries about reliablity. I have had 2 other Subarus 1 new 1 used and never replaced a clutch. I auto-xed the last one and never had a problem. I will not launch my STI and I am confident that I can make the clutch last as long as I own the car.
The STI is a better daily driver for all the reasons you know and have read in the comparisons.

 

This is a very touchy subject!! I am actually trying to save up to pay off my EVO and try to purchase an STI also. I might be wishful thinking but I am going to try. Both are sick *** cars. Neither should be faulted. Evo is better in handling stock for stock and STI is better for all around power. Looks are preference.
As far as your concern with reliability I agree subaru is a more reliable vehicle. I have a 97 Mits. GST. The turbo was fine, but the tranny can lick my #$$. Also have crankwalk. You do not have to worry with the EVO compared with the eclipse near as much, if any. Warranty work will depend on the Dealership you get it. Some will allow after and some do not. Also from what I have heard warranty work is about the same with both companies.
You do not have to worry about the crankwalk on the EVO. I have had the EVO for about 2 yrs almost. I have about 20,800 miles on it. I have not had any clutch prob. todate(knock on wood). I do not drop it too much(hahaha), but I am feeling a grind in my 5th gear when I come out of 4th at high rpm. I was told under warranty but I have not had the time to fix.
The worst of the STI I have heard has been the cel when putting on an aftermarket exhaust. I do not know alot about the STI(still learning). Unfortunately both cars rattle.
Like I said both are sick cars and you shouldn't be disappointed with either car. Hope this helped and good luck with decision. Boxer engine does sound nice!!

 

Is there something new for the STI this year as far as increasing horsepower or body style?

 

for me its STi all the way, having driven/riden in lots of wrx, 1 STi, and evo and a srt-4 i would say i like the STi by far... Granted i am a hardcore bmw owner, (as that is what i drive right now, and have owned 2) i need to get into the awd japanese turbo scene. I just couldnt see myself going from abmw to a mistubishi.... i think the interior of the STi is just SWEET!! i love the seats, 300 hp stock is a # that should make any car fan get goose bumps over. Then throw in a 6 speed tranny and you almost have me whole heartadly.... what pushes me over the edge and will make me purchase an STi next year is the boxter engine.... get some xs exhuast or something of that brand on there and dear god

IMO STi>Evo

David