The 2006 Mitsubishi Evolution IX vs. The 2006 Subaru WRX Sti
This is my first post on Automobile Comparisons and Contrasts. This blog was inspired by my desire to purchase the new 2006 Subaru WRX Sti. However, researching about other cars on the market crossed my mind. The closest competitor to the Sti was the 2006 Mitsubishi Evolution.
Starting off with the competition, the Mitsubishi Evolution IX derives from the rally cars Mitsubishi began producing decades ago. For 32 grand, this power house comes equipped with All-Wheel-Drive, a turbo-charged four-cylinder engine outputting 286 horsepower, and 289 lb-ft of torque makes this bad boy every racers dream. The aggressive dual-grille front bumper, hood scope, rear spoiler, and Brembo Big Brake kits lets the Evolution IX handle smoothly and precisely. With many standard safety and performance installations such as ABS (anti-lock braking system), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, inter-cooling system, and an overall light weight sedan draws attention from the younger crowd of speedsters and joy riders.
The Subaru WRX Sti flaunts everything that the Mitsubishi Evolution IX boasts. Turbo-charged, four cylinder engine pulling 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft. of torque. Fortunately for Subaru, they listened to the public and included more standard features in the 2006 Subaru WRX Sti. A CD changer, cruise control, light gold painted BBS rims, sticky racing tires, front-seat side airbags, and automatic climate control dominate the Evo’s standard hardware. Mounted on the trunk, rises a spoiler, extended rear bumper, and modified front bumper to provide extra traction, handling and wind resistance.
Yes, both the Evo and the Sti have solid handling that only other cars dream of having. However, both have major downsides. The Subaru Sti, feels heavier because of its extra features, bigger engine, heavier exhaust, and cabin weight. The handling and acceleration are superior when comparing other cars, but when matched up against the Evo, the Sti falls short in the performance category. Interested buyers who have test drove both the Evo and the Sti claim that the Evo has better handling, and the Sti feels like it clings to the ground. The Evo, doesn’t come equipped with a lot of options such as CD changer, and cruise control, but you can upgrade and purchase options such as HIDs (headlights), and sound system upgrade. The Sti on the other hand comes with a lot installed, but you can’t customize the car because there isn’t a broad range of options available, and no sunroof.
All in all, it really just depends on what the driver wants. The Mitsubishi Evolution IX is light and agile, while the Subaru WRX Sti is quick and strong. In my opinion I would test drive both cars before you make a final decision. Sit down one on one with a consultant/salesman and go over all the speculations and options that are available.
