to put it plain and simple. The s4 feels like a pig compared to the evo.

 

Yes, there really is a 400 lb difference. The S4 weight in at 3593 lbs, IIRC. The Evo is 3243 (I think?). So the difference is 350-400 lbs. The S4 is heavy.

 

Oh, i forgot. The s4 weighs about 3600 lbs. so it probably weighs about 400 lbs more than the evo. The evo weighs about 3200lbs right?

 

S4 = money hole

 

I didn't say they were equal - They are both running out of wind up top. That's where the DP's help the S4. Way harder is a little much don't ya think?

With 264/272 cams (stage 1+), I am running much stronger than the Stage 1+ S4. I am achieving full HP at 7400 rpms - didn't mean to bother you

 

My buddy has an S4 and we both agree that the EVO is much, much, much, more fun to drive. It just handles so much better. the S4 is way to heavy and that is very noticable in the turns. However like others have said if you are going on a road trip etc. the S4 is definately the car you eant to take, if only for the curse control.

I agree that they are in two different catagories. The S4 is more refined and has one of the best interiors of any car. The Evo is a performance car. The Evo is faster stock and faster with the same money spent in mods and as far as handling - it will always handle better...

The S4 is a nice car and I really like it. However I belive the Evo will suit your needs much better.

 

Well said! $15K is more realistic and 450bhp is with test pipes and race gas. You haven't reached the suspension at that point either. An S4 with a chip and pipes is the way to go; luxury and a little get up and go - most of the torque is achieved at 1800 rpms.

 

I guess way harder is too much of a subjective term. I guess the correct term would be that the s4 pulls noticeably harder up top.

moddability- evo>s4
fun factor- evo>s4
handling-evo>s4
luxury-s4>evo
refinement-s4>evo
reliability- probably =


Totally different cars w/different strengths and weaknesses. Only thing I can really say is Turbo awd kicks ***.

 

What are your guys thoughts on the different Stage I/II packages available for the Evo.

I want to go with a reputable company and more than likely have the install done at their shop as well. Are these the two best?

http://www.automotosports.com/EVO_stage_2.asp

http://www.vishnutuning.com/lancer_stage_zero_2.htm

If so, I will probably just go with the one that is closer to my home which would be Automotosports.

 

This is very helpful as have been everyone's posts thus far. Thank you again for all the awesome feedback.

One more highly subjective, but important question. I have always been a Corvette/Camaro big V8 guy. While watching from the sidelines I have seen some amazing cars come through over the years and some truly awesome tuners work their magic on Supras, Eclipses, RX7s....but I have never taken the plunge b/c I always preferred the torque of a big V8 and the sound of the exhuast behind me. I even drove a 600 rwhp Single Turbo Supra that scared the living day lights out of me....but only above 3000. The car felt like a 4 banger (not really - but you know what I mean compared to a 400 HP V8) below 2,500.

Now that we are solidly into the hyper performance market with the STi and the Evo and these cars come with AWD, large turbos, bullet proof blocks....I think it is time for me to step it up. Besides the exhaust note should be replaced by a nice WHOOOOSSHH sound and the braking and handling should blow away that of at least the camaro if not the Z06s.

So am I going to miss my big V8s or is there no turning back once you feel a Turbo AWD car?

 

I have never really had a problem with my Vishnu stuff; however, when you have to deal with other vendors in different time zones and shipping -- UGH!!

A lot to be said for someone close by!

Good luck!

 

once that turbo spools and you get whipflash, you'll never go back to V8's guaranteed.

 

I love my Evo, but I know that in a recent SCC/CAr and Driver/Road and Track article, where they tested various tuner cars in a test of acceleration, handling and braking at Texas Motor Speedway, they concluded the article with a side note that said something to the effect of: Even with all the mods on the different cars, the stock Z06 ran the timed course 1.5 sec faster.

This is what we're fighting against.

That said, going out on track and passing someone in a Z06 who is less of a driver is worth it.

 

This is actually a very good reality check. Reminds of the old saying, "There is no replacement for displacement."

But I don't think any of those Car And Driver comparo cars (at least the Evos) were pushing 400 WHP.

 

They have a new audi rs4 coming out next year with the tt v8 outta the rs6 putting out 450 hp and i know i have seen a package for the rs6 that boosted it in to the 650 range. I believe Motortrend in there future vehicle forcast has the info on this car.
as far as the cars in that test/comparo i dont think any of them had more than basic bolt ons