Oh, the sadness...
I was expecting the EVO to have the upper hand versus the STi back when we all thought it would be a 2.0 STi, but once I learned of the 2.5 and various other goodies, I thought the STi would be the better performer by a large (and embarrasing) margin. Clearly, that is not the case. Instead, they seem comparable, with "this car does this a little better" and "this car does that a little better." Not at all the slam dunk I was expecting. Oh, well. Still loving my WRX, so I can't complain.
HedonicTread

 

Amen!

 

Like some others, all I need to know is that the STi has a 2.5 and handles better than a WRX. I had an awesome test drive in the Evo. No doubt the cars is awesome for auto-x. But, I wouldn't get so suck on the handling and braking performance numbers put out by all of these magazines. Don't forget that the Evo tires have more rubber on the ground, I would guess about 10% more, especially while braking. Equal tires on both cars would produce some interesting numbers.

Looking forward, if you plan to get a larger turbo for the STi, you'll increase the mid-top end. On the Evo, you'll increase the mid-top, but loose the low.

 

One thing we should keep in mind: These magazines have about a 6 month lead time with their articles. So, my guess is that the STis in question were pre-production models, which would explain the irregularities. Is there something in the articles to the contrary?

-Dave

 

I mean I realize the evo fairs better than the sti in the magazines and on the road coarses, but i'm leaning towards the STi for so many other reasons.

I mean how many times could I hit a track in a year where i'll be dying if I didn't have the go-kart like evo. Another factor is the interior, which the evo suffers from el-cheapo plastic parts. Engine reliability and tuning is also another factor. The STi is boosting 14.5 psi stock, while the EVO is pushing 19.5 psi stock... practically to its limits. The STi tires can always be changed, and the suspension is more suited towards everyday driveablility.

If I was to have a solid track car and not a daily driver/ethusiast weekend spiriting, then i'd take the EVO. Otherwise despite my disappointment with the EVo taking the STi, i'm still going subaru

 

I read that AW story at least a few times. I think one thing people aren't noticing is that the STi comes with less aggressive rubber than the EVO. The EVO gets summer tires. My personal thought is if the STi is equipped with summer tires as well, both cars would turn similar lap times.

Honestly, this comes down to personal taste. Having owned a car with a punishing suspension, I can understand why people may not like the STi's harshness.

The proof will be in the pudding when the both start racing in SCCA club racing. The SCCA has approved the WRX for 2004 competition.

The AW article said something oh-so-true. This is a rivalry that will compare to that between the Camaro and the Mustang. And that, my friends, is good no matter what side you are on.

Peace!

 

Thec STi's tires are high-performance summer tires too (just a different brand than the Evo's).

 

SubaDave03 (above) has a good point re the magazines lead times. Thanks.

 

I don't think the STi is WORSE than what the specs suggest...I just think the EVO is BETTER than it's specs. As a consumer, what more could you ask for than to have two cars, both incredible and yet different enough that everyone can satisfy their own needs.

You are , but you ought to be
Always look at the bright side !

 

It's a matter of opinion, power vs handling, style is up to you;
I saw the sti and evo on paper first and my first impression was sti all the way in styling, but when I saw them both in person I found myself very surprized by how sweet the evo really looks.
And I love the front mounted intercooler on the evo.

 

For those who would have rather bought the EVo instead of the sti, why not wait for next years toyota supra ?


Should be a killer !!


If someone tends to disagree, feel free to critisize........


I know that statement should start a slame war !!

 

Consipracy theories? I hope you are not being serious. As for anyone taking the sti over the evo, I love the STi, just as I loved my WRX...but I love my new EVO even better. As for why we are hear, speak for yourself...some of us here simply to learn from fellow enthusiast about the cars we love.