keep my stage 2 speed 3 or get a 2010 STI?

[Regulator]

First off, you are going to spend a boatload more cash on getting that '10 STI so that won't be the most fun..

My speed6 beat a '10 STI hatch with only an intake and accessport (also beat an EVO 8 from a roll with same mods)

Even though I am giving points to your speed3 so far, I think the STI is a much stronger platform if you are going for big reliable power. Also you will be gaining AWD so that's just plain fun to drive in all weather.

[ms3077]

AWD can have advantages for sure but is pretty much over kill for the most part depending on where you live.

If you use the car as a DD and live in a climate like Florida for example, this is about all you’re getting from AWD for the most part:

- Added weight with is never good

- Massive loss of power via drive train

AWD doesn't automatically mean the car is going to perform better than a well set up FWD car. It's just not that simple. Unless of course your idea of better performance relays solely on 0-60 times.

Now if I you lived up north where the weather was shitty most of the year, sure AWD would defiantly be the way to go.

I'm not saying all AWD cars would be a poor choice always just that having AWD doesn't by default make it better. There are many variables to consider here.

That said; I would certainly consider an EVO X because it’s without a doubt in another league performance wise compared to the MS3. You can’t really say this about the other AWD cars here in the U.S. that are 35k and below. The 10’ STI is quicker from a stop but no quicker around the race track vs. the MS3. It’s the same story with the 09’ WRX and others.

[Stealth01]

Your Speed3 should be faster from a roll. The STi is sturdier. If you can afford to get a new one that has a lower chance of going BOOM, why not do it?

Originally Posted by ms3077 AWD can have advantages for sure but is pretty much over kill for the most part depending on where you live. If you use the car as a DD and live in a climate like Florida for example, this is about all you’re getting from AWD for the most part: - Added weight with is never good - Massive loss of power via drive train

You also get more things to break. However, AWD gives you better launches, generally faster 0-60 times, and better grip and traction in rainy conditions as well.

It's a trade off. More powertrain loss versus better grip.

[asherstan]

I love the STI AWD 305 HP and the 2011 is sweet, untill I seen the MSRP and called my insurance Company,
thats why I bought another Speed, But hey if you can afford the STI go for it, I love the speed, but there is nothing like AWD, I talked with a Mazda rep, who said they really considered the 2gen speed3 AWD, but due to cost, segment of class it would then be in IE: EVO, WRX, STI, new Lexus coming out next year, and redesign of underbody and platform, it would have pushed the cost (MSRP) to around 30k.

both are great cars!