Just had a few quick questions, hope I'm in the right place. Over the next 2 months or so I will be getting a new car, and I think it's pretty much narrowed down to the TL and the WRX. I realize they're somewhat different, but I'm looking in the $25,000-$33,000 price range, and those 2 cars attract me the most (I love the Z, but 2 seater will kill me). So anyways, I'm just curious as to what you all think would push the TL Over the WRX, and for anyone in South Florida, where you bought it and what you paid if you don't mind. Thanks so much,
Matt

 

that's an easy one. look at the interiors.

 

depends on what you are lookin for, i feel the TL is the complete package, where the WRX is not, I'm assuming you're not talking about the STi, so the engine is weaker, but of course potential to mod, I would say TL, but thats my opinion.

 

is there any place where the TL lacks? I've test driven both and the WRX definately has some more zip (5.4 0-60 compared to 5.8), and better handling, as well as the 4WD.

 

interior the simple silver and carbon fiber accents arr tastfully done..the exterior asthetically is alot smoother looking then the WRX looks boxy and ever guy i have ever seen in one has looked like a total TOOL...(females opinoin) ...unless you get the 2.5 RS but im sure your buying new....The WRX is also a 4 banger..BOOOO but the car sells itsself go test drive it your sure to pick it....I also think that the Acura doesnt depreciate as much as the WRX does when you drive it off the lot....

 

it lacks good tires :lol2:

but seriously, you're not gonna be racing, 5.4 vs 5.8, is not that huge of a deal for daily driving. and the TL has some cool toys, depends on if you want a swift rally style car, or a stylish luxury car, its really up to you.

 

Isnt radio an option in the WRX?

:lol1:

 

on the STi, as thats the real rally car with weight reduction aud such, it will blow most cars out of the water...

 

Yes, I'm sure it will, but if your looking to go racing everytime you drive then I guess that would be the choice for you! Otherwise if your looking for the complete package, go for the TL! Would be a pretty easy decision for me!

 

its a difference of Rice vs Nice. hehehehe j/k, those 2 are 2 totally different cars. one is so much more sport oriented with its turbo and 4WD capabilities. it will probably outhandle and outmuscle the TL any day. but will lack the luxuries that the TL offers. the TL is a sporty luxury sedan, the wrx is a compact sport car. test drive the TL and compare the differences. i can't imagine it snowing in miami so the 4WD will not help you in that aspect. you will probably get better traction and control but for normal daily driven who really pushes the car like that? i looked at the lancer Evo before getting the TL and it was just too plasticy for me, the interior was like a civic.

 

ahah, if your between 16 and 23 the WRX sti is a good choice.

 

STI has the power advantage and the handling advantage (because of the AWD). The TL is an entry level luxury sport sedan.

I'm almost 22, and I feel like I'm too old for the STI. I want the power and the handling, but not at the price of a dated interior and an exterior that does nothing for me. The STI is more in your face styling, and the TL is classy.

I would definitely consider the STI as a second "fun" car, but not as my only ride. The TL gives me plenty of sport to go w/ my luxury.

The bottom line is: it depends on what you are looking for. Take both for a long test drive. The best way to make a decision.

 

I'm assuming you're talking about the WRX STI. They are very different cars. The bigger vs. smaller and luxury vs. rally car factors are obvious. If not, a short test drive of both should make it pretty clear. Something that's not as obvious are the higher insurance, operating (gas), and repair costs with the WRX. Total cost of ownership will be much higher on the WRX.

If you're young and have never had a car like that (WRX STI), I'd advise going for it - but consider other sports cars too. If you have time, test drive everything with wheels - it will be fun! Plenty of time for TL's as you get older...

 

well here is my situation, I'm 19, starting my sophomore year of college in Fall. My first car was a '99 Prelude Type SH, a pretty zippy car that was a ton of fun to drive. No, Miami doesn't get snow very often (or ever at all for that matter), but on my test drive, the WRX handles like a beast, I was accelerating full force off a turn without an oversteering or tailing out or anything. The main reason I am considering it: looking in the $25-33k price range, there really aren't very many options. I don't like domestics, so don't even bother. And I hate SUV's/trucks. That leaves me with: the WRX, Honda Accord, Nissan Z (I couldn't deal with only having a 2 seater), S2000 (once again, 2 seater), Toyota Solara (just plain ugly IMO), small-engine BMW 3series (overrated), and the Acura TSX and TL. I just don't like the TSX at all, which leaves the TL, which I think is an absolutely beautiful car. I realize it and the WRX are in 2 different classes, but they have some similarities, they're both designed for younger audiences who want a 4-door, but don't want to give up on having a sporty/fast ride. Granted, the TL has a much nicer interior, but the price difference between the WRX and TL is about $6,000. I will hopefully be test driving a TL in the next few days, although a purchase won't come for about 5-8 weeks. I will let you all know what pushes me in either way, Thanks for all the help, it's greatly appreciated.

 

fliggil,

Have you considered the G35? It doesn't have as nice an interior as the TL but it seems to be a happy medium between the TL and WRX. It's got a tighter suspension and more torque, but it's still a luxury coupe. Price should be similar to the other two.

 

Well, since I own both an 04 TL and a 03 WRX (SportsWagon) I feel I can give some input on this. They really are quite differnt cars, and I love them both. The WRX has a lot more zip (despite 43hp less) and the wagon version is very versetile. The AWD is superb (Subaru is legendary for it) and the low ride lets you take on all sorts of environemnts. As you said it handles like a beast. Even though I am in the TL 90% of the time, I still love the feal of the WRX when I do drive it. The WRX also is a lot easier to handle (smaller turn radius) and my wife finds it to be easier in the city.
Personally, I like the TL better. Much more comfortable inside (though the WRX is nice), tons of extra features (including a nav option), and a much more luxury like finish. There really isn't a comparison in the cabin, but it's hard to get the full feal from just a test-drive. I've had mine a few weeks and I still can't believe how nice a drive it gives me.

If you have any questions, please shoot me an email (jdrasin@yahoo.com) and I'll answer any questions you have about the two cars.

Joe

Of course, the TL is about $10,000 more