So maybe I should just get the red 05 wrx instead. I know that it doesnt have as good of motor or tranny but, with some work i could get at least 250whp. That is a big jump from where I am now and have been. Mostly I have owned civics but now drive a Ford Focus. I just really want awd as much snowboarding as i do. I have driven a few base wrx and was really dissapointed, which i think was mostly because of gearing. I drove my friends sti and was blown away which was my thinking on getting it. But a difference of about 125 a month is a big deal. Ah decisions...

 

Maybe I am hearing typical chat but from my understanding people have had problems with the gearbox in the ej20. I know I am knew here so maybe some research into the difference in the two would help me.

I am looking to have right around 300whp with either. I know that is quite a bit of work and im not a ricer coming around with outrageous claims either. I am looking to put in quite a bit of work if i get a base wrx. If I get the STI I will mostly put the money into the suspension and take it for track days. Well either will be used for track days but if I save money getting the wrx then more money will go into mods. If i get the sti I will keep it mostly stock other than suspension.

Which reminds me i know i can search for this answer, but what is the stock offset? What offset would be needed for a 17x8 and a 235/40/17?