Originally Posted by 280z/300zx

I wouldn't get either. If I had 25k to spend and not much more I would hands down get a WRX. I think for 25k there really isn't a better car. Not saying the Gen coup is bad, it's just that it hasn't even come out yet and will be new to the market where as the Suby has been proven. I know that the moment I take the car home I can go to Cobb for Stage 2 and have myself a high 12 sec car that is still very reliable, all weather, holds 4 people comfortably instead of either coupes cramped backseat, and will still corner decently enough.

However, I would agree with what you are implying. The BRZ/FR-S is substandard compared to other cars in it's price range except the Miata. I think people are expecting this car to do well like the miata but they are forgetting one thing; it's not convertable. The miata does well because it's cheap, sporty, and you can put the top down. It's a great car for someone who can care less about performance but still wants something sporty and fun. 99% of Miata drivers are not on the auto-x course as some would have you think. The problem with the BRZ/FR-S is that it's basically in the same category as the Miata in that it will be for those who could care less about performance, except that you can't put the top down. When you have that 30-40 year old guy or girl who wants something cute and fun, chances are they are going to go with the one that they can put the top down.