Running the rallycross down here just exposes me to all sorts of Scooby action and the STi is rather impressive. As for looks though, I've always been partial to the earlier bug-eye WRX. The STi is a much different vehicle than the original WRX. Heavier at over 3000 lbs. and a lot more powerful. If you want bargain performance take a look at the 2-door RS. They can be had for a very reasonable price ($4K -$6K) and you can stuff all the same performance suspension and drivetrain bits in there as well.