I don't think a 2 door RWD coupe is a alternative for a 4 door AWD Sedan. At least I don't think that is what mrfred had in mind when he created this thread.

Of course we all know the C6 Z06 is capable in the performance realm, that is not what I am challenging.

 

Only thing Id concievably get rid of my IX for would be an 08+ M3 sedan. I wouldnt hesitate at all.

 

Yet it's been six years? Sounds like hesitation haha

 

Huh? I've only had my IX for a year lol. I think youre referring to the OP?

 

No, you. But I assumed you had your evo for longer than that.

 

Oh ok, no I see what youre saying now. Its early monday and im trying to work and post at the same time. The M3 id want is still a bit out of my price range.

 

My understanding is that the new Mk.7 Golf GTI R will be a much nicer car that it has been with a 6 speed manual option. That would be an alternative to a new STi.

 

It just might be this time, since it's getting a little bit more firepower this time. Though in Subaru's defense, the WRX and STI both received huge updates in the handling department to the point where they've both received very good reviews (though some people are disappointed that the STI still has the same 2.5T), so we'll see.

 

I'll jump on the BMW bandwagon as well, but with the 335Xi.

They have the handling and the traction, and can be made fairly quick with little money invested. If I HAD to replace my IX right now, I'd be looking at those exclusively and without question.

 

^ But not when you replaced your VIII a few months ago

 

First of all, the R is not a GTI, it's an R. It's the same chassis, drivetrain and motor as the Audi S3 and Audi TTS.

The MK7 Golf R will most likely only be available in DSG trans in the USA, unlike the MK6 Golf R which was only available in 6spd Manual in the USA.

 

I've been hoping this thread would go away so I can avoid the urge to reply. I just don't understand this mindset. I know there are some X haters out there, but there simply isn't a "newer alternative to the VIII/IX" in the same price and performance range other than the Evo X. A smoking deal on a used E90/E92 M3 is definitely the only other car that would tempt me away from an Evo X.


Let us sum this up:

-The 2015 STI: It's AWD system is behind the 2008 Evo. The STI's "torque vectoring system" is applying the front brakes on one side. Yawn. If that sounds a lot like an e-diff on top of the other differentials it has to you, that's because it is. The EJ257 is a pile of poo. It has 25% more displacement than a 4B11, and gets crushed toe-to-toe in mods, and has more lag with similar sized turbos, and way less transient response with its idiotic pre-turbo exhaust routing. It also isn't nearly as robust as the 4B11.

-Golf R: Volkswagen has proven something to me- They build great and comfortable commuter cars, but they don't build performance cars badged as VW nowadays. At all. Yes, the Mk 7 will be less weight. But all those open differentials can't keep up with a stock STI or Evo on racetrack, as been proven time and again. You can't fit very wide tires under this car, and the aftermarket tuning potential and support are freaking horrible. If you want AWD that can get you through the snow, look nice, be super comfortable, and a car your wife drive, buy a Golf R. If you want a performance car value, forget VW/Audi.

-Focus ST/ Fiesta ST, GTI, Mazdaspeed3: These cars drive the wrong wheels. Again, good commuters with a splash of fun, but hardly an Evo IX replacement. They can't make use of even their stock power in low speed corners. Add power and hilarity ensues. I miss my GTI like I'd miss a migraine when the roads get fun. But I do miss it when I'm stuck on the interstate idling in bumper to bumper traffic, since the clutch was lighter and the car was Church mouse quiet.

-BMW 135i/335i: OK, at least we're looking at a seriously nice commuter here, drive the proper wheels, and Hercules torque, but open differentials and total lack of handling prowess are obvious. I had one of each, so while they were fantastic daily drivers, they weren't performance cars, and really good for highway roll racing. Try to chase an Evo up a cloverleaf, even if you have an extra 50whp, and you're going to get left in the dust.

Evo X: Unless you're talking a pure drag platform and want to make gigantic horsepower, I can't think of a pro case for the older US Evos over the X. I loved my VIII and my IX, still wish I had the IX for value and sentimental reasons, but I like the X better in almost every way. That extra weight in the X is a bummer, but the chassis is much stiffer as a result, it has SAYC, it will accommodate much more rubber and wider wheels without rolling and pulling the fenders, the engine can handle over 400whp Dynojet pump gas and bring the car to high 11 second ETs with a mild turbo upgrade, stock cams, and offer plenty of longevity. I don't agree that the "engine doesn't cut it". It's not a 500whp on stock internals 4G63, but it'll handle 80% of the power with better top end breathing comparatively due to a better flowing head. It also spools better due to having a Mivec adjustable exhaust cam gear as well.

Do you want nice commuting manners? By all means, get one of the other cars listed above.

Do you want a "moddable, affordable, high performance daily driver" as the OP stated? And do you want to go fast in a new car for ~$35k? Get an Evo X.

 

If all you want is a daily, all the cars are fine and it boils down to personal preference in terms of styling, interior quality and that "feel" factor. While yes, none have the stock engine power potential of the X, for a daily that doesn't really matter. For daily duties, a lightly modded STI is not much different from a lightly modded X or a lightly modded ST. Each car will have their own pros and cons, but I don't think there's a clear winner if we're just talking daily driving duty.

 

I'd probably look into a 135i. Not that expensive but still incredible interiors compared to the Evo's. I think my biggest gripe with evo's is how loud they are on the inside. It's impossible to take a babe for a ride and have a good conversation at the same time.

 

That might actually be an advantage, haha... plus you can always just talk to the girl at your destination (restaurant, your place, her place, etc.). Personally, I never found the car to be a hindrance, or even too loud. One girl who claimed that she could hear my car from inside her house (bone stock Evo too) easily had conversations with me in my car. Smart girl too (double major at USC, runs her own business, etc.), though it helps that her older brother used to own an Evo VIII, so being in a IX is a little nostalgic for her.