I traded my '08 STi for the Z. The Z feels like a higher quality car...tighter, better interior materials, etc. The Z also feels faster, with better low-end torque. The STi motor in stock form doesn't run too well, it has flat spots and hesitations (a known issue due to emissions requirements), plus it doesn't feel that fast for a turbo car. A tune helps (and gets you more power), but it may not remove the choppy performance altogether.
It's a nice car, just not great. I think it needs direct injection to make good power, meet the current emissions/fuel economy standards and run smoothly. I wouldn't buy another STi unless it gets DI and like 350hp...a dual-clutch trans would be cool, too. DCT's and turbos make a good combination...no boost loss between gears. Then, the STi would be real fun.
Unless you're gonna mod the STi (or you need AWD or the additional passenger/cargo room), I would recommend the Z.
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