rai

these are the key points

1) It doesn't sound like anyone is saying zxy car is a beautiful car. Most likeley their looks will be tolerated not admired. I happen to like the STi looks better but it's still very much a Subaru and so nothing great. I would put the STi 6 (of 10) and the 135i 4 of 10 (but that's just from pictures)

2) they both make good power and should be quick (maybe the I35i will be quicker out of the box) but the STi is not a slow car and should be easy to dive quick. I have a Legacy and although it's really low power and soft suspension, once it gets moving it can really hold speed on a curvy road and I expect the Sti will be a lot better than the Legacy.

3) No one is saying xyz car is way overpriced. Yes they are getting spendy for small cars, yes the C6 or used M3 is getting into the picture. But for the same price 135i and STi are premium price small cars offer a lot of bang for a middle class buck. I mean they are not Mustang GT cheap far from it but they offer a level of refinment over that for the extra price.

4) anyone looking for max performance (IMO) should look at the Corvette period end of story. These two cars are not in that league. But people wanting rear seats, maybe less of the old-guy Corvette image or who already have a 2-seater (like me) would be more interested in a younger image and more functional car (rear seats) for a bit less cash.

CKit

You could get this for $50,000....

rai