Alright, its time to decide. I'm a relative noob when it comes to Scoobies. I've been racing Hondas for about 6 years now, but its time to make the change.

After researching the 2.5 RS a few years back and now looking into the WRX, I have come to a split in the road. I LOVE BOTH CARS!! It would be nice to own one (or two, or three,....) of each, but that's just not fesible.

So, I turn to you Subie Specialists for your experience and input. I like the fact that the WRX comes with big power right out of the box, but I still like the look and smaller package associated with the 2.5 coupe. This is a 99-00 I'm talking about, by the way.

Without price being considered, which would you rather have? Please tell why.

And if you were to choose the RS, what would be needed in order to get it to WRX power levels and beyond. Do Subies swap as easily as Hondas? If so, what engines (aside from that $10,000 STi engine) fit into the MY99-00 RS.

Thanks for you input in helping me make this tough decision.

Jeff

To me sometimes its the looks. I kinda like the 99-00 RS. But the WRX or 02 RS looks nice too.

See http://i-club.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=77667 and never try 14 psi boost on a stock high compression 2000 RS motor.

WRX

Jeff,

If you need to check out a WRX up close without a dealer around, you need to hook up with Elwood and myself. I only live about 15 minutes from you, and Elwood lives on the NW side of Indy.
He has a sedan, and I have a wagon. He has already started the modifications on his, and has raced a few times.
I'm sure some of the people on this board will be happy to help, many have traded their RS for a WRX.

Dale

If you're gonna race on the track... WRX
If you're gonna autox... RS

many have traded their RS for a WRX
...and many haven't. :)

You'll need about $5k to fix the problems with a WRX and about $10k to fix the problems with an RS plus make it fast. Look at the platform and decide which raw material suits you best. The WRX has a substantial head start in the power department which nothing short of a turbo kit will make up in the RS. The suspensions need replacement on both, the brakes are about the same (both need work). The RS already has decent wheels (for performance, not bling) while the WRX wheels are good for snow tires. The WRX has decent seats while the RS's are pretty squishy.

Oh yeah, the WRX has a nicer interior and rides better. :D

well
if you like to be able to drive 25 in 4th gear .. rs
or 90 in thrid... wrx

my rs has huge low end power but lacks on th high end compaird to the wrx

WRX just because a fast, hot wagon is the best, IMO. I think the interior is a fair amount better in the 02, as well. Makes a difference to me, at least.

A wee bit of price difference between a few year old RS and a new WRX, tho.

lb
www.trancelab.com

Hey Dale, I just might have to take you up on your offer. I enjoyed a pretty nice test drive at Speedway Subaru. The salesman that was with me was younger than I was (and I'm only 21). He lead me to a nice, empty, curvey, fast road and said "mash her down." I felt kinda bad about going WOT on a WRX with only 400 miles on it, but I guess it was his boss's car, so oh well.

Anyway, I think that I'll probably go with the WRX...I'm more of a fan of high end power, plus I do more track racing than rally or autocross.

And yes, interior is a factor. Honda's interior is so spartan and plain. The WRX interior is comfortable and it feels like it wraps around you. Very nice.

I think that the WRX will make a nice, smooth, powerful ride and I'll be able to keep all of the comforts. My Honda is gutted and loud. Not very comfortable at all...but pretty quick.

Thanks for the input guys...

Dale, my email is ShinshikiSi@hotmail.com.....let me know if you want to get together sometime...I'd like to check out some of the local Scoobies.

Jeff

Any new car these days can handle WOT and redline after a few miles are on the clock. 400 is no problem.

Larry

At this point it really is about personal preferance on the looks I think. With the right money and mods, either can be comparable :)

Eric

WRX