My post to a craigslist forum string:
I just read through this discussion. As an owner of a 2002 WRX wagon (http://gabeanderson.com/wrx), I can say that it is one seriously kick-ass car.
Let’s start by pointing out the obvious: You’re comparing the WRX to a CORVETTE. That in itself speaks volumes. Of course a (stock) WRX isn’t going to take a Vette off the line or even at the tracks. But as folks have pointed out, the AWD is what makes the WRX so powerful. It’s glued to the ground and I can take corners like you wouldn’t believe (stock wheels & tires).
It is a 4-cylinder car, so its real power is in the high RPM range – upwards of 3,000 RPM is where the turbo kicks in.
Fastest 0-60 time I’ve read is 5.4 seconds. I’ve taken a number of V8 Mustangs and Camaros off the line, as well as an Audi Allroad Quattro on the freeway (a 300hp, $50k car). All I have to do is drop it down to 4th and I’m gone.
For its price, the WRX can’t be beat. When you talk about an STi, only the Lancer Evo can compare.
Plus, as someone mentioned earlier, show me another car that hauls this much ass, takes corners like it does, can carry around 100 pounds of dogs in the back, AND drive to Tahoe without any chains (leaving all the SUVs in the dust, of course).
Show me a Vette that can do that.
You’re comparing apples and oranges.
For the price and what it does, there’s no car like the WRX.
-Gabe
1 response so far ↓
1 J. Davis // Feb 29, 2004 at 10:02 pm
I just think it’s great to imagine dusting some buttafuoco with a Corvette off the line in what amounts to be a little rice-burning sleeper. I want to buy one just to do that.