Bachman Subaru Blog

If the idea of high-quality performance sedans gets your blood pumping, you’re not alone. Two of the most well-known and important models in the history of Subaru’s performance vehicle production are the Subaru WRX and WRX STI. To fully appreciate everything these models have to offer, it’s important to understand their historical significance. Then, learning about what these cars provide in terms of modern specs can help you make key comparisons before you decide which is the right model for you to buy.

History of the STI and WRX

Image by Kevin Burnell | Licensed with Pexels License

The significance of Subarus in the category of performance sedans is notable. Dating back to the 1990s, Subaru earned its reputation among the racing circuits with its performance models. Among its production of performance-oriented models are the Subaru STI and WRX. The WRX first hit the American market in 2002, while the STI came a few years later in 2004. Before going into mainstream production these models were Subaru’s most prized rally cars.

Throughout the 1980s, Subaru had little luck with its performance vehicles. Its Leone and Legacy-based rally cars weren’t winning races when put up against the stiff competition. But then, in 1993, Subaru’s racing division created the Impreza chassis, which finished second at the Rally Finland stage. The engineers based this chassis on the Subaru’s GC8 Impreza WRX. It went on to win three consecutive titles for the manufacturer between 1995 and 1997, plus it won a total of 46 rallies within those three years.

This rise from the ashes cemented Subaru’s WRX chassis in the history of top-performing rally cars.

Key Comparisons

Overall, the key difference between the Subaru WRX and WRX STI is performance. The Subaru STI is the more powerful and performance-oriented of the two. It comes with a bigger engine, stiffer springs, thicker tires, more powerful brakes, and more. By comparison, the WRX isn’t something to sleep on. This is still a high-quality performance vehicle, and it could be the perfect choice for a buyer who wants a good-looking sedan that can handle twisty mountain roads with ease and grace. These are two great performance-oriented models for two different kinds of car owners: racers and riders.

However, the performance difference alone shouldn’t make or break your decision. Let’s compare the specs of each model and the pricing. You need to consider the whole package, including the nitty-gritty details, to make the right choice for you.

STI Specs

Key specs driving the performance gap between the STI and WRX include engine, suspension, transmission, and brakes. The WRX STI comes with a 4-wheel independent suspension system. It has aluminum front lower control arms and a double-wishbone rear suspension. Due to its pillow-ball joint mounts and bushings, drivers experience almost no body roll. These details make this a precision vehicle with almost unmatched handling from any other sedan in its class.

The Subaru STI also features a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. It’s capable of producing an incredible 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Drivers will love the thrill of accelerating from zero to 60 in 4.6 seconds, reveling in this model’s solid reliability and exceptional performance. It’s paired with a six-speed manual transmission for precision shifting, whether you’re on the racetrack or the road.

When it comes to brakes, the STI has powerful, ventilated 13-inch front and 12.4-inch rear rotors. These come coupled with four-piston front and dual-piston rear calipers. The whole system comes supported by Super Sport ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution. This setup is perfect for powerful and predictable braking and is reliable enough to last your whole race.

WRX Specs

While not as souped up for the track as the STI, the WRX is a dynamic performance machine that’s sure to delight. This model comes standard with a 2.4-liter DOHC turbocharged engine. It produces up to 271 horsepower with 258 lb-ft of torque. Three of the four trim options come standard with a six-speed manual transmission.

Drivers can opt to add the eight-speed manual transmission with paddle shifters and auto vehicle mode or get it standard when they choose the performance trim. The eight-speed transmission also comes with an optional manual mode, so you can pick the transmission style that best suits your driving preference. The WRX can go from zero to 60 in an impressive 5.5 seconds. Whatever build you pick, you can feel confident that you’re getting a high-performing vehicle that’s engineered to provide razor-sharp handling.

Beyond the guts, the WRX has versatile options for interior comfort and connectivity. The interior of the vehicle is attractive and handsomely appointed. It’s sporty but spacious enough to be functional for daily drivers. While the STI may outperform the WRX on the racetrack, drivers may find the WRX model more suitable for practical functions. This just might be the dream car for rally car enthusiasts who have a deep appreciation for the style and engineering brilliance of these models. The WRX makes owning a rally car a reality, even if it never sees the asphalt of the rally stage.

Pricing

Pricing on each of these models is variable based on factors like the year, trim package, and customization. In general, you can expect to pay more for the Subaru WRX STI than the WRX. Even the top-of-the-line WRX is likely to cost less than the most affordable option for the STI. That’s because there’s more going on under the hood of the STI than the WRX, even apart from its engine size. Since the STI is a performance vehicle designed for the track, it’s a specialized vehicle. This translates into a higher price tag.

If you want to know more about how much it’ll cost to get behind the wheel of a Subaru WRX or STI, we can help. Contact us today, browse our inventory online, try out our vehicle finder service, or stop by at Bachman Subaru of Louisville to meet with one of our qualified professionals. We’ll answer your questions, help you compare the WRX and STI, and get you driving the performance Subaru of your dreams today.