WRX-TR or Mazda3 2.3?

[ibuildthings]

Tried both this weekend. WRX TR and Mazda 3 with 2.3 L engine. Neither has
sunroof, am too tall to want one.

I loved both cars. Each one, I would buy in a minute, if I was only 6 feet
tall. I fit more comfortably in the Mazda3, but the WRX is tolerable and a
LOT faster.

I haven't seen too many severe complaints on the boards about either, not
like some of the other cars out there. Consumer Reports claims both have
above average reliability. The WRX costs a bunch more. Is it worth it?

Anyone here have practical experience they care to share? Troubles, joys,
factory "policy" decisions, anything?

Thanks in advance.

 

[mike]

I would wait for the mazda3 MPS if the mazda 3 is more confortable see
http://www.topspeed.com/fast_cars/mazda/mazda3_mps-ar2194.html
I dosent have AWD but im sure it'll be a hoot to drive

 

[Rui Pedro Mendes Salgueiro]

Tried both this weekend. WRX TR and
http://www.autoweb.com/content/shared/articles/templates/index.cfm/article_id_int/877

Mazda 3 with 2.3 L engine.

I assume that this Mazda is not the turbo (250 hp), because that one
has just been announced at Geneva:

http://www.autoweek.com/files/specials/2006_geneva/mazda/mazdaspeed3/pages/01.htm

"We will be able to enjoy the new 3 here in the United States. Look for
the little pocket rocket this summer as a 2007 model, when it will be
renamed the MazdaSpeed3."

So I suppose it is this one with 160 HP:

http://www.nctd.com/review-drive.cfm?Vehicle=2005_Mazda_3&ReviewID=1662

The WRX costs a bunch more. Is it worth it?

It depends on what you want from the car. The Subaru WRX has 4 wheel drive
(a real 4WD system with a center differential). It also has much more power
(the current US version has a 2.5L engine with 230hp). On the downside
the fuel consumption will be higher, maybe much higher (depending on
your right foot).