I'm getting the 5EAT with sportshift because I think that an automatic w/ manual controls is cool (if the sportshift switches gears fast enough, that is)

The following link has a decent explanation of the Subaru viscous coupling locking center differential
http://www.irvinesubaru.com/enthu/awd.html
and a good diagram of a viscous coupler can be found here
http://www.rallycars.com/Cars/4wd_turbo_cars.html

as for the planetary center differential with an electronically controlled, variable hydraulic transfer clutch, I don't feel like I know enough to explain it, and I can't seem to find any decent links explaining it... if I find something, I'll edit this post later.

EDIT: I guess this link seems to have an explanation of planatery center differentials.
http://www.imprezawrx.org/editorials/981027/awd.html

A lot to read about other sorts of differentials too.

 

The sportshift is *supposed* to shift gears as fast as a manual.

It is slower then manual shift speed, but significantly faster then automatic shift speed (if playing with the gear selector while driving)

 

5MT all the way! If it had the WRC 6 speed with paddles, now that would be a different story. Or even the 5EAT with paddles might make me think a little harder.

 

I'd get the 5EAT. Reason is I was born w/ a medical condition limiting my mobility and strength. Although I feel that given the chance to learn, I think I can hold my own, the DMV didn't feel the same and put it as a restriction on my license .

 

Don't worry though dude, the 5EAT will be plenty quick!


-Gagan

 

Yeah, if the 5EAT is an improvement over the 4EAT, it will have plent of power

About the only thing my 4EAT is missing is a bit of low end torque (not to mention my engine needs a turbo slapped on it)

 

5mt... torque converters are not my friend

 

5MT!!!!!!!!!

 

I would deffinetly pick a 5MT, I grew up with driving a 5MT and I like the idea of total control of the car.