Should You STI Swap Your Subaru WRX Or Buy a Subaru STI?

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 25 ธ.ค. 2024
  • Wanted to Give a Thank you to today's Video sponsor Nordpass. Remember to use our Discount Code "Smeedia" to save on a 2-Year + 1 Month Plan! Https://nordpass.com/s...
    "Should I STI Swap my Subaru WRX"?". This Question comes up so frequently that I thought it deserved its own video. I did want to wait to make this one until We finally did a Subaru WRX STI Swap of our own so I could give actual real-life experience on the topic. In the end, you do what you want to do with your car but knowing what you'll be using your car for will help you determine what you should do and what you should buy.
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ความคิดเห็น • 327

  • @Smeedia
    @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Once again, Huge Shout out to todays Video Sponsor Nordpass. Use Code Smeedia or go to nordpass.com/smeedia to save on your 2 Year + 1 Month Plan!

  • @corbin2942
    @corbin2942 ปีที่แล้ว +79

    You forgot to mention the most important factor in that the STi comes with an unbelievable amount of “STI” badging. I swear my GR has those letters hidden in places that I’m still discovering 😂

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Lmao this is too true 😅😅😅

  • @FunTimeWithSouls
    @FunTimeWithSouls ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I went from a full bolt on 2019 WRX (non flex) to a 2020 STI because of an accident and good lord the difference between the two is insane to me. The STI is 100% a better driving experience. I’m just starting to mod the STI and can’t wait to get it to the point I did with the WRX.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Accidents are never a good time, but I'm glad to hear you're enjoying your upgrade 🎉

    • @Craiggg12345
      @Craiggg12345 ปีที่แล้ว

      My girlfriend had a 16 WRX and I have a 20g STI and she always driving my car

    • @nynameisnyan20
      @nynameisnyan20 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Smeedia as a 20 WRX owner i have too much sentimental value in it already cause i have owned it for 3 years now so the plan is to inevitably do bolt ons for it then if i ever do get another subie i may just save up and get an sti
      probably the 09 to 14 era cause if anything the 02 to 07 era ones are rarer and rarer

    • @acidfrogs10
      @acidfrogs10 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@nynameisnyan20 Im absolutely with you on that Ill never get rid of my 20 wrx. So Ill just buy an 05-07 STI with the money im saving on gas and ins ;)

  • @johnathanvickrey6217
    @johnathanvickrey6217 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Could’ve gone STI but always wanted the hatchback, which a 11-14 STI hatch in decent condition could be as much as like 26k in my area. So went WRX and love the car, so your videos are a huge help as the 6 speed is becoming super tempting everyday😅 love the vids help a ton

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Totally understandable 🔥 the hatches hold their value stupid well 😅

    • @Hunners_media
      @Hunners_media ปีที่แล้ว

      pick up an 8-10 hatch! I picked up my black 08 hatch sti. 85K miles one owner, very good condition, and I only payed 18k for it. Plus the front bumper in my opinion for the 08-10 is better looking!

    • @drewsorensen8398
      @drewsorensen8398 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same reason I settled for a WRX... Plasma Blue Hatches that are STI's are not cheap or absolutely clapped.

    • @johnathanvickrey6217
      @johnathanvickrey6217 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Hunners_media went back and forth between that for a long time, but found a good wrx with a newer engine from a really good shop so went with it

  • @SupremeWarriorGaming
    @SupremeWarriorGaming ปีที่แล้ว +9

    To anyone considering buying a WRX or an STI… Pick the Sti it is a ton of car for a great price and every WRX owner that I’ve ever met. Regrets not buying one.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Big facts. If you plan on modifying the car. Just get the STI

    • @xil3ntkha0s
      @xil3ntkha0s ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This lol I was planning on Subaru delivering an updated STi but we all know how that went down

    • @Konformation07
      @Konformation07 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I own a WRX and I don't regret not buying an STI

    • @grantgarver7520
      @grantgarver7520 ปีที่แล้ว

      But then there’s sti swapped bugeyes 😊

  • @acid847
    @acid847 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I picked up a 2015 STI with 96k and it was modded for 16k.... However, I am getting it tuned and has been running great. Your channel has been a huge resource for me thank you!!!

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad the videos have helped 🎉🙏

  • @omialmanza1900
    @omialmanza1900 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Yeah, the STI at the time was out of reach, due to expenses. Tho I don't regret getting the wrx. The community is great the power gains are alright to my liking. Most people want power, Im happy with the driving experience and great people I've met over the past 4 yrs. Including the learning experience these cars give us

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That is all that matters 🫡 that's how I feel about the 04 sti. Don't care too much for a ton of power. Just want a fun driving car 🔥

  • @RyanByrne
    @RyanByrne ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Owned a 12 STI that I had to get rid of during my divorce and bought an 11 WRX hatch a couple of years later. I ended up doing the swap just like you due to a bad 5 speed. My only regret is that I didn't just buy an STI instead of the WRX...so much more spent swapping because it just snowballs! I love watching your videos because you go down the same rabbit holes I would 😂

  • @Imprezach
    @Imprezach ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Wanted to get a GD STI but ended up getting a 96 Impreza L. Swapped everything off an 02 wrx donor w/ sti bolt ons and runs on corn. I’m at 360 wheel and can keep up with my homies and their Sti’s. I still need an sti 6 speed but as a college student, it’s a great budget build and cost me half the amount of an sti if not even less because we did all the work in our garage. Can’t wait for you to start your gc journey!

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Honestly that impreza L seems more fun imo 😅

  • @adamb.4750
    @adamb.4750 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    When I bought my 2014 WRX hatch there was a $10K spread between the WRX and STi, so it was worth it at the time. Now, just start with the STI. The 6 speed tranny, better clutch, and forged internal block alone are worth the price of admission. I’ve got the 6 speed, R180 w/ Cusco diff, and 6 pot calipers, but I’m still limited by my stock WRX long block. Maxed at 360 hp (dynojet) at 19 psi. Looking to do a motor build soon.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Just to clarify, they do not come with forged internals 🙏
      Send that thing more! 🔥 😈 we did 460whp on a mustang on the stock 255 😅 (disclaimer I don't advise you do that if you want it to last😅)

    • @adamb.4750
      @adamb.4750 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia My mistake, are the EJ 257 rod and pistons just a stronger design than the EJ 255 made from the same material?

  • @nikolayangelov7763
    @nikolayangelov7763 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    As an owner of a 2014 GV STI, I approve this message. Growing up I always wanted any subaru with a hoodscoop, but ended up with a 2009 Impreza (My favourite car so far) - And I saved until I could afford the real deal. WRX would be a fantastic whip for a dad who's trying to have some fun. '09 Impreza as a daily and '14 STI for weekends has been a dream come true :D Also the impreza has higher compression pound for pound, feels whippy with it's NA 178 horsepower EJ25 :'D

    • @MrDuceOwen
      @MrDuceOwen ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I've got an 11 wagon same generation. Absolutely love how the na feels above 3k lots of response

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Solid line up right there 🔥🔥🔥

  • @Bunkley99SSM
    @Bunkley99SSM ปีที่แล้ว

    I was trying to order a STi hatch with a sunroof but Subaru would not let allow it under any circumstances. Knowing that was the only thing I could not change down the road I bought the hatch with a sunroof. I knew in the long run I would be swapping up to a 6 speed (which I went through all the codes looking for a specific 6 speed gear set and front differential). Currently doing the black interior swap, microfiber the headliner the JDM mirrors. It has been a fun car to upgrade but also has been a love hate relationship as well.
    Thanks for making this car this build. It has motivated me again to work on my car.

  • @geralduchman6663
    @geralduchman6663 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Having had both an STI and a WRX, I can somewhat agree. It really depends on your goals. If you wish to make power above STI levels, which means a built engine (closed deck, forged pistons etc...) with possibly a Garrett GT35R turbo or something larger, then possibly start with a WRX. If you plan on gutting the interior and going with a true race seat and cage, then probably a WRX might be a consideration. Keep in mind, someone with an STI will probably not negotiate as much as a WRX owner since they know that they can get more cash for it. When it comes to the driveline, the six speed is great and a swap with that and the differential with hybrid axles (think $300 cost if you don't go full aftermarket hybrid axes at $1600 which can out do any stock STI axle) can do the trick. Easy to take the differential, driveshaft, six speed, slave cylinder and hybrid the axles keeping the WRX rotors. As for the brakes, there are a ton of options in the aftermarket world which can outperform the stock STI Brembos. As for suspension, you are going to probably go aftermarket with the coil overs (ex TEIN Flex Z). So... in short.... my opinion....if you plan on modifying past STI levels, save the initial cost and negotiate WRX. If you are happy with STI levels...go STI!

  • @Paddy_Badger
    @Paddy_Badger ปีที่แล้ว +1

    After having both, I can totally agree with many points. After losing my 02 wrx in a crash, I knew I wouldn't be happy with another one. So I bought an 05 sti. No regrets either time.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Sorry to hear about the accident 😭 but solid pick up on the 05 🔥

  • @banni4291
    @banni4291 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I opted with the wrx route because Australia's price difference for wrx vs sti is pretty crazy plus most 2008-14 sti's have been absolutely manhandled

  • @andrewharris7868
    @andrewharris7868 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You summed the entire video with one line; "You never hear a STI owner regarding not buying a WRX, but you hear WRX owners regretting not buying and STI" 😂 brilliantly put

  • @StarryBoar
    @StarryBoar ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I think where the STi swap is the most beneficial is for the models that we never got an STi for. IE the Fozzy, Legacy, and Outback. If you want an STi, just buy one that came that way. 🤷🏼‍♂️

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yessss, that's the only way for these models. 🫡🔥

    • @StarryBoar
      @StarryBoar ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Ya, buddy. Might know a thing or two. 🤣🤣 Have an 05 STi and an 04 Fozzy. Both in the "project" phase. 🤣🤣

    • @5thAve_Ricky
      @5thAve_Ricky ปีที่แล้ว

      There’s an STI of the STI , it started in the 1st gen Forester. With the availability of the wire harness and things like that. It would be cheaper to build one than buy one. Then they will be identical

  • @bradgreen987
    @bradgreen987 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My previous '06 wrx had a swapped STI trans( tuner recommended). Was way stronger, but drove it into a concrete barrier. Way tougher than WRX 6speed

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      💔💔
      The 6 speed is WELL worth the $$

    • @MightandMagic88
      @MightandMagic88 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Can you only swap the trans though? I thought in a previous video you said you had to swap the rear diff if you were swapping the trans due to differences in the gear ratios

    • @mcsqueegee81
      @mcsqueegee81 ปีที่แล้ว

      dang.. did you get the 6speed from it after the wreck?

  • @250boys7
    @250boys7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Was just talking about which to do not even 1 minute before this came out, smeedia always knows

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Reading your minds 😈

  • @chilibanditto9317
    @chilibanditto9317 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Im doing an STI swap Impreza Outback Sport, I LOVE MY LIFE

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      😮😮😮

    • @CHLLChubs
      @CHLLChubs 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I'm thinking about the same thing, how did the process go?

  • @Zekeskate5000Channel
    @Zekeskate5000Channel ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I bought my 14 WRX Hatch with 113k for $8k... This car has not given me problems until I decided to go full power... STI 6 speed swap with brembos and fully built engine going for 500+WHP. I hope it lasts for a long time. I think I made my death wish for this car when I declined someone offering $20k for it when I first bought it lol.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      8K?! 😮 that is a STEAL!!!

  • @HeidiFegles
    @HeidiFegles 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Wiring harness merge is a must unless you have an era correct swap then you can do the entire wiring harness swap dash swap and interior swap. I did the merge and a wire tuck at the same time. Swap will be way cheaper in the long run. Then the cops won’t bug you either cuz well it’s not an sti officer. It’s an Impreza pzev hybrid. See it runs on e85 ethanol cuz it’s a hybrid. Just leave out the turbo with 400hp to the wheels part.

  • @Rynowhite14
    @Rynowhite14 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I'm just about finished with my bugeye. Full RA block/STI heads, STI transmission with DCCD, turbo, intercooler, steering rack, full sti interior, UK gauges, sti wing, jdm headlights, steering wheel, etc. I'm doing the 4 pot/2 pots to complete it, since I plan to rallycross. Since I wanted the bugeye STI, after I bought my car, I was thinking I probably should have just got an 04 and swapped the front end? I learned a lot about the car though, so that's cool. Insurance is cheaper, and I'll feel less bad about taking it to go rally. People get annoyed about putting the STI badge on a wrx, but I think you get to a point where it becomes more STI than WRX.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      100% true, at a point the wrx will become more than an STI is if you continue to send it. Your build sounds like a fun one though!

    • @Rynowhite14
      @Rynowhite14 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Yeah...I keep telling myself it's fun...I like misfires...power steering leaks...forgetting to put gasket sealer on the cam caps and having to pull the whole motor apart....haha . :)

  • @florinpotor9683
    @florinpotor9683 25 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Swear to god it`s exactly it - bought an g2 impreza, thought about wrx-ing it, decided to keep i original and buy a wrx , which brought me to your video. i know the wrx migh be enough for me at least for a while, but i just know i must have a blob eye sti in my life.

  • @HeavyMetalWRX
    @HeavyMetalWRX ปีที่แล้ว +3

    i am 100% the target audience for this video. We're shopping around for a sti driveline as we speak. Also im jealous your garage chair is better than my garage chair 🤣

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      This chair sucks butt 😅 the wheels always fall off it 😂

    • @HeavyMetalWRX
      @HeavyMetalWRX ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia the one I use is from my daughter's Ikea table. Now that we replaced it I have a spare. I'll send it to ya. 🫡

  • @ryanthibault5144
    @ryanthibault5144 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Happy Friday boys we made it to another week🤘 thanks for the Friday vid tanner

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Happy Friday buddy 🎉

  • @kevind_53
    @kevind_53 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nothing to add, I agree on every aspect! My girlfriend was looking at VA wrx at fist. Told her to put the extra for an STI. She never looked back on wrx since she drove an STI.

  • @sabre2112
    @sabre2112 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a 2009 wrx and did a built engine and a 6 speed B spec swap and it’s at 500 Dyno jet all together 15 K it was better than a new car note.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      How are you liking the spec B trans? 👀

    • @sabre2112
      @sabre2112 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia I like it it’s nice to have that 6 gear to grab on the hwy pulls the rev’s down below 3K @70

  • @michaelgomez5392
    @michaelgomez5392 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Really stuck between rebuilding my 02 wagon into a sti wagon or buying a blob eye sti. Always loved the blob eye sti but I’ve fallen in love with the look of the bugeye wagon

    • @deez_sti
      @deez_sti ปีที่แล้ว

      Same!! Lol getting an 05 sti 6 speed swap and then doing the 2.5 hybrid RA block build after my current 2.0 block goes! Still planning on picking up a wrb blobeye wagon though 😅🤙😁

  • @thegreenfrisbee
    @thegreenfrisbee ปีที่แล้ว

    Just bought a 2011 wrx hatch with iag stage 2 tuff block and 6 speed swap yesterday! So excited

  • @HeidiFegles
    @HeidiFegles 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Swap for sure your insurance will thank you. My 1985 rx turbo sedan is swapped with an 06 sti everything and insurance is 40 bucks a month. And it’s 2,000 lbs. 400hp it’s a blast.

  • @845_RALLYRU
    @845_RALLYRU ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a 18 wrx. I ended up doing the sti driveline. I think it's 100% worth it since the trans is so much stronger. The only thing that doesn't work is the SI buttons (since it'd need the sti ecu for it to work) In all i spent about 10k. Now i just need an FA24 swap

  • @Wowthatscrazybro
    @Wowthatscrazybro ปีที่แล้ว +1

    i’ve had both. the drivetrain is significantly better in the sti, and is the weakpoint in wrx. i’m glad i upgraded to the STI.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The drive train alone makes it so worth it 🔥

  • @thatoneguy9842
    @thatoneguy9842 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I do regret not buying an STI but I have no regrets for getting a WRX because it's my first WRX and I'm not gonna just go right to the big boy car to start.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Absolutely nothing wrong with that 🔥🫡

  • @shiloh5199
    @shiloh5199 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If possible these days I'd go for the cleanest STI hatch I could find. Copping an STI off the rip saves me a bucket load of small tedious headaches that I will inevitably run 🏃‍♀️ into🧱🧱🧱. The time I'll save will pay fir the extra cost of purchasing an STI model. Unfortunately we can no longer purchase a new WRX STI model...so the prices on used STI models are sky high.

  • @svv_brunorcs1557
    @svv_brunorcs1557 ปีที่แล้ว

    that was pretty straightfoward to me, in my country we only started to get sti's from 2008 onwards and i wanted a GD, so no other option than a wrx

  • @layuyang6347
    @layuyang6347 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If broke and want a sti and you have a gd chassis you can just swap the trans over instead of the full swap. But its on the person if they want to do that

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Very true. A lot of work to do the swap

  • @FaMeFire
    @FaMeFire 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    5k is wild. That’s what I was expecting and now I’m 10k into my 6-speed swap. And that’s still with 5x100’s and no brembos

  • @RushroyaleAddicts
    @RushroyaleAddicts ปีที่แล้ว

    Hell yeah, grats on the sponsored video. Look at you growing!

  • @goodwoodjohnson1692
    @goodwoodjohnson1692 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you, sir! Been pondering this for a while now. Keep up the great work!

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Got you 🥳🫡

  • @davo5400
    @davo5400 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Yessss you answered my question from my graveyard comment! Smeedia ftw!

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      🫡🫡🫡🫡

  • @tdkbones
    @tdkbones ปีที่แล้ว

    I build my engines from the ground up so I didn’t matter for me but I loved your points

  • @cascadianrallyteam9023
    @cascadianrallyteam9023 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yup I dont know a single person who regrets buying their sti, I also feel they tend to keep their car long than those with a wrx, atleast when it comes to the va

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ohhh that is a good point, I have seen a handful of sti owners sell and go to a VA wrx but very limited

  • @MrMetal1394
    @MrMetal1394 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    A donor car is not a bad option if you have room for it. Selling parts I don't want off mine has gotten me breaking even on purchase price and I still have more to sell. I'm gonna get a free 6 speed and full EJ257 and make money off it. Plus a fun learning experience and meeting a bunch of cool people in my local subaru scene!

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      100%, biggest thing is finding one for a good price and having the space for it 🔥

    • @MrMetal1394
      @MrMetal1394 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Smeedia I got mine for 5800 and it was pretty badly wrecked. Copart is a great source for wrecked cars like that

  • @AdrianBilladeau
    @AdrianBilladeau ปีที่แล้ว

    It's amusing how much this question floats about. I mostly lead with "if you are asking about it then you probably want the STI and are looking for justification." That is followed with it is cheaper to just get the STI. Great looking WRX by the way! Hopefully, after this flip I am working on I can finally do the 6MT swap on my ol forester.

  • @halroofner4069
    @halroofner4069 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great to see you are getting sponsors.✌️

  • @ZackNakazora1
    @ZackNakazora1 ปีที่แล้ว

    The standard wrx is fine if you want a simple bolt on fun toy. On this side of 30 and having lived my GD subaru dreams. I don't even mind the idea of a 2.0 wrx. You have to go into it with the short comings of an sti. In my opinion. If you wanted to be cheap and do an sti swap. I'd get a 2.5i and start from there.Find the cleanest chassis you can and everything else will be yoinked out. Most guys who want to use a subaru for their track day car. If you don't already have the car. Will start with a good chassis and a donor. Or buying someone else's track car haha. Good info here. Esp with the price break down

  • @Bang_n_slang
    @Bang_n_slang ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I didn’t realize how lucky I am having a 14 sti. How much reliable power can I squeeze out my stock internals ? Obviously for longevity

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Longevity and reliability I'd stay around 350whp 🙏

    • @Bang_n_slang
      @Bang_n_slang ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Thank you 🙏🏼

  • @HeidiFegles
    @HeidiFegles 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My car is an 85 it’s stuck at 5x100 and it was an act of god to find an xt6 to get the rear hubs to make it that. 5x114.3 would take a flip the car over and cut out the rear tunnel of the 06 sti and weld it into my 85 chassis, some things just aren’t worth it. Although it’s tempting to do it for the r180 I have the 05 4.44 jdm 5 speed and in my sub2,000 lbs car I have no problems with anything but wheel spin.

  • @Tru_Op
    @Tru_Op ปีที่แล้ว

    I got a 06 wrx with the mindset of drive train swapping it because every STI for the 06 I could find was 20k+, where as I found my WRX for 7k and I plan on dropping a built IAG short block in it regardless of if I get the WRX or the STI. So I found it more cost efficient in that scenario to buy the WRX and do the drivetrain swap. I also think its cool to say "I built my STI"

  • @bubbabrannan5915
    @bubbabrannan5915 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thorough explanation, Tanner... Thank you!!!! ✅️✅️✅️✅️

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      🫡🫡🫡

  • @moisesr7840
    @moisesr7840 ปีที่แล้ว

    I bought my wrx hatchback for $18k in 2019 with 78K miles on, back then
    STIs with same millage were over $25K.
    4 years later I picked up a 6 speed with brembos for $4,300 and I can get $1,500 back when I sell my 5 speed.
    And I keep my wrx insurance rate.

  • @john.f.remedy.237
    @john.f.remedy.237 ปีที่แล้ว

    My reason: bug eye baby. If I could have found even a jdm version for a reasonable price in or around my state I would have, but I prefer the bug eye over the blob eye or hawk eye…

  • @electroevolution5777
    @electroevolution5777 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I think its worth it to keep the wrx and mod it. Although a lot of people drag you for not having an sti

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +14

      It's okay, when the wrx becomes faster than the STIs you get to drag them 😅

    • @electroevolution5777
      @electroevolution5777 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@Smeedia true, just gotta rob a bank for the 6 speed money

    • @xil3ntkha0s
      @xil3ntkha0s ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Ignore the haters. Or just get both. Lol

    • @gregkump3639
      @gregkump3639 ปีที่แล้ว

      Wrecked donor is the best place to be!!
      If you are lucky to find same year and color . Even better!

    • @fakethiscrap2083
      @fakethiscrap2083 ปีที่แล้ว

      If you really want an wrx get that VB model lol.

  • @elikolins2849
    @elikolins2849 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a wrx at the moment. I’ll most likely buy an sti and use my wrx as a donor.

  • @pinktacotuesday4573
    @pinktacotuesday4573 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just bought an 11 WRX hatch for 7k in CA. Needed headgaskets but should be back together this weekend.😊

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Phhhh that's a steal!

    • @pinktacotuesday4573
      @pinktacotuesday4573 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @Smeedia yes sir! 150k on the clock super clean dark grey metallic. Came with nice summer tires on stock wheels and another set of stock wheels with nice snow tires too. Acess Port and a big sf intake 😊.

  • @erdinczor1
    @erdinczor1 ปีที่แล้ว

    where im at now with my 11 wrx hatch. the damn rabbit hole of wanting to start modding but i thought "let me get her driving properly before i start dumping into mods and tunes" well now im dumping all my money into parts just for basically maintenance.new clutch/flywheel put in, new plugs in, Cobb CAI and AP with OTS stg 1+ 93, power steering just went out while driving home, strange idle and throttle response, soon suspension need to swap, TMIC leak. Also pretty sure the drive train has an issue causing a nasty sound during deceleration. havent even thought about the block or tranny yet. now i face palm daily thinking about the work i need to do just to get her in good shape. not even thinking mods anymore.

  • @BT-mg1uu
    @BT-mg1uu ปีที่แล้ว

    So fun fact, my 2011 wrx (Australian model) came with a r180 rear diff, and has the indicator side mirrors. I was really surprised regarding the diff though. Only found out when I did the 6 speed swap with a 05 non dccd spec b transmission. Iv spent more then what it would have cost to buy an Sti, but the 100+ hours I put into building my sound system alone, meant I wasn't just going to sell the car on for an Sti. Way to much time and effort gone into it for that.

  • @AndemusRay
    @AndemusRay ปีที่แล้ว

    I own 2 wrx, sti drivetrain swapped. They were already swapped, so I paid about 7k less than buying a sti. I only see good purpose of swapping a wrx bugeye to sti. But I'm sure way cheaper to swap front face of the 04 sti to 02 wrx 😅

  • @sti_clone3840
    @sti_clone3840 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Imo buy a wrx if you want better fuel economy and in the future you can mess around and slap on STI parts…if you have a bit more of a budget buy an STI and skip over the small upgrades and go straight to those gains! Haha or if you’re happy with the speed of a stock STI then build it for reliability! Cheers great video!

    • @sti_clone3840
      @sti_clone3840 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      On the note of insurance maybe they messed mine up but full coverage on my 14 sti came to be cheaper monthly than a 17 Toyota Corolla lol

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ​@@sti_clone3840 whaaaaaat, that's deals on insurance then. Who do you have? 👀

    • @sti_clone3840
      @sti_clone3840 ปีที่แล้ว

      Originally I was with a company called economical insurance which I found through Brokerlink. When I went to switch it over from my Toyota to the subie they switched me to a different provider called definity insurance company and though them my insurance actually dropped from $143CAD to $139CAD…not a big savings but like you mentioned in your video I was expecting prices between 200-300 haha

  • @bobdabuiler8200
    @bobdabuiler8200 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    The STi to WRX price difference on GDs seem to be much larger. Also I like Bugeyes so I get stuck with the 5 speed. :(

    • @mcsqueegee81
      @mcsqueegee81 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      or if really into the bugeye, do the 6sp swap, full sti swap while at it. I have a bugeye wagon. have definitely thought to go that way. ended up getting a sti.
      but now want to sti swap a forester...

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      GD prices in general seem to be going up 👀

  • @StarwindIV
    @StarwindIV ปีที่แล้ว

    You also forget to mention (money aside) the time savings are huge.
    That being said, swapping is a great way to learn your car inside and out.

  • @greenblattsamuel
    @greenblattsamuel ปีที่แล้ว +2

    The 5 speed with the OEM short shifter is really good for what it is.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'd say it's okay, mone was mediocre at best. Reverse was absolutely garbage in mine. BUT it did hold up to back after back launch

  • @enzobh2623
    @enzobh2623 ปีที่แล้ว

    In Australia STI's are twice the price of a Wrx, my 2006 wrx with 150k on the engine (second engine) cost me 14k AUD, the STI version is 30k minimum, cleaner examples go up to 45-50k AUD for a GD chassis since they're also sought after, sti swapping in Aus isn't completely unreasonable.

  • @chocolatethunder3218
    @chocolatethunder3218 ปีที่แล้ว

    Something else to consider is how you're going to drive the car if you don't plan to modify it. The STi has stiffer suspension out of the box, which can make it less comfortable as a daily driver, but handles better at the limit, and on paved roads. The WRX is better on rough roads, and might be a more comfortable car to live with every day, with the exception of the awful shifter, but a short shift kit can make a WRX shifter useable.

  • @joshanderson1122
    @joshanderson1122 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    As always good info Tanner. I just wish we could have got an STI version of the GG wagon 😔. Right Matt!?

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      We don't get the good stuff 💔

  • @aidanthehobbiesguy5145
    @aidanthehobbiesguy5145 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I still find the thought of sti swapping a 2.5i an interesting idea, the lowest teir of impreza with the highest teir of components. I have no clue if it would be worth it, but 2.5i's can be dirt cheap

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Unless you have Donor Sti that you got for dirt cheap i don't think it would be worth it, would be a cool idea though 👀🔥

  • @Nick_Spencer
    @Nick_Spencer ปีที่แล้ว

    Personally I'm in a Wrx with most of the STi swap. I knew i'd be attached to the car and wanted to have more to do in the long run. Money is just paper er fabric? don't care, I'm here for the journey to make this car truly mine.

  • @acidmike3535
    @acidmike3535 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like the wrx more but thats because we never got a bugeye sti in the states

  • @godspeedtenga
    @godspeedtenga ปีที่แล้ว

    I felt watching an episode of MythBusters. Thank you Sir for answering a two-decades worth of thinking about this question every gaddamm day.

  • @twentyonenix8386
    @twentyonenix8386 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    id love to see you throw on some aftermarket headlights for the wrx! looks stock in the front with it, but thats all up to you. love the videos tanner ❤❤

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I live the oem lights, I will eventually swap them to HID though 🫡

  • @smokechris2299
    @smokechris2299 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You should make a video on your thoughts on the new Wrx. I own one of the new models and I wanna start working on it but not sure where to start. Plus I’m still trynna learn more about it.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      I may make one, I'll add it to my idea board 🫡

  • @taylorprice5813
    @taylorprice5813 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I meeeaaan ... I've already got my WRX and got a fair amount of mods and a tune on it and I'd have to re-do all that on an STi soooooo I think I'll keep the WRX and look out for a part out with 6 speed stuff. But I'll be damned if that's not tempting to get an STi. Just gotta save to start replacing stuff as things break.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      All the wrx parts transfer to the STI though 🤫 but I don't blame you. I'm super happy with mine 🥳

    • @taylorprice5813
      @taylorprice5813 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Hah, I mean that's fair. I cooould buy an STi down the road. I've got a better radiator, AOS, turbo back exhaust, and grimmspeed top mount, and accessport. They could all be put on the STi. The only thing that'd need to happen is the tune. You know, it's just $$$$$$$$

  • @dylankrone5198
    @dylankrone5198 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the info on the swaps! I knew I needed the STi drivetrain, I just needed someone to tell me I did. 😂 The 6-Speed, STi LCAs, and '15+ Steering Rack are definitely on my list!
    I bought my '08 w/ 120k miles as a mechanics special (cheaper than dirt, thanks to a burnt valve, and being a narrow-body) but I feel the EJ255 makes enough power with a few basic mods for the tight and windy mountain roads here, I just need the turbo to spool quicker for better control.
    P.S. Someone sell me a Spark Silver rear wing from an '08-'14 STi or '11-'14 WRX! 😁

  • @derekrobertson9583
    @derekrobertson9583 ปีที่แล้ว

    Idk I'm hating my wrx atm. 1 sprocket bad other 3 reading high. 2018 with 72k miles looking at 3k or give it a go on my own in the driveway.

  • @LothianValet
    @LothianValet ปีที่แล้ว

    Its one thing i had done was just bought the sti but didn't have the funds at the time so wrx was next best thing 😂.

  • @cughan_9482
    @cughan_9482 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just gonna turn mine in to a sti. But Gonna better than any sti on the street.

  • @yungeyetoy
    @yungeyetoy ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I live in Aus and have a bugeye wagon with a jdm ej207, and its interesting to see the price comparison here to the US. I got mine for 10k aud (about 7k usd) and there was nothing wrong with it and you can easily get meh condition ones under 10k. on the other hand for a bugeye sti here the starting price is closer to 25k aud. ive sti swapped and done many other modifications (although still on 5 speed, 300,000km going strong) and the amount of money ive spent still would probably only just have gotten me an sti. plus i really wanted a wagon lol 😁

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The wagons fun and way more usable 🔥 prices over there seem wild to me. Someone mentioned that the newer STIs were going for 100K? I'm not entirely sure of how true it is. But blew my mind 😮

    • @joeldurbridge2718
      @joeldurbridge2718 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yep, prices here in Aus are ridiculous for STI’s compared with WRX’s. I have a blobeye wagon and would love to do some sti swapping. Motors on 310,000 same 5 spd box, would love to put a 207 in and some nice blue seats.

    • @yungeyetoy
      @yungeyetoy ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Subarus website for a brand new wrx sti say between 60-70k recommended retail, but we all know what dealerships think of recommend pricing lol. Over here we seem to get a LOT of special versions (my wagon is a 'club spec' edition, came in factory sonic yellow with a sunroof) and i would have zero surprise if some newer stis in more limited trims were selling for over 100k 🐼

  • @shawnsquires2716
    @shawnsquires2716 ปีที่แล้ว

    i got my wrx for 5500. it already had aftermarket wheels, clutch, short throw, exhaust and cobb tuner with a stage 2 tune. I'm planning on swapping the 6 speed in and building the engine. I feel like it'll be cheaper for me.

  • @c.j.cameron1820
    @c.j.cameron1820 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’ve been through 3 WRXs and on my last one I said even if I dump 15 grand in it, it wouldn’t be an STI so I traded it and got my VA STI shit box and I haven’t looked back since.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Shit boxes are my jam 🔥

  • @Crazy8ts
    @Crazy8ts ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Also the STI's are skyrocketing in value as the flagship subaru model, the STI changed the spoets car market when it came to the U.S. Especially the GD 2004-2007 they are collector cars now and there id no going back from the skyrocketing values of STI's.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Prices done seem too high right now. Maybe some clean GD models but average cost is not too crazy

    • @Crazy8ts
      @Crazy8ts ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Smeedia its going up fast though a couple years ago the average was 14,000 for GD's, but you are right in that, its the clean (history and title) very good condition mostly original GD's that are getting high in price, and the less well cared for below average condition STI's are still obtainable at worthwhile cost. This highlights how the less common very nice ones are appreciating fast enough to pull the averages higher and higher annually. No going back now, they will just keep going up. As the lower condition sti's get parted out it will just accelerate the price increases...attrition to already low production cars..and that will cause even the lower condition ones to become more valuable..its a rising tide scenario developing .This is just the beginning. This spring and summer will see more increases.

  • @paulmarsdensr1095
    @paulmarsdensr1095 ปีที่แล้ว

    I owned a 2017 WRX for 4 years and paid it off. I was waiting for the 2023 STI and they didn't make it. I now own a 2020 STI and T he clear winner here is the STI. Oh yeahhhh.

  • @johnwick5918
    @johnwick5918 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just bought my 2019 sti spec r for 57k aud. Might be a bit expensive but time was running out.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      Whats different from the Spec R vs a base? 👀

    • @johnwick5918
      @johnwick5918 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia Recaro suede seats for the spec. R. 😂

  • @StarwindIV
    @StarwindIV ปีที่แล้ว

    My EJ207 V7 swapped '03 bugeye is "just" a wrx for insurance haha

  • @giftedcracker
    @giftedcracker ปีที่แล้ว

    I watched this hoping for some input on sti drivetrain swapping a vb wrx (2022+). I think thats a case that makes a lot more sense than earlier models. Maybe you can talk about (or do) this in the future

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      It's on my list to do for my VB 🫡

  • @hunterbean7953
    @hunterbean7953 ปีที่แล้ว

    i didnt plan on sti swapping my hawkeye, but my car planned on it

  • @skatebug8it
    @skatebug8it ปีที่แล้ว

    Took me 2 years ro regret my 2015 WRX, now im on the market for a 19-21 STI. I dont want to put the money into my WRX to make it faster I would rather just start with an STI

  • @Borp56
    @Borp56 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Humble opinion before watching the video, if you own (no payment) a WRX it’s worth it to sti swap it rather than going out and potentially getting a loan for an STi. Especially since you can buy WRXs under $15k all day long and nearly every STi that isn’t already at 150k miles is going to be over $25k. Also if you’re going to heavily modify the engine there’s no point in paying $10k more for an STi that you’re going to have to rip the engine out of anyway, when a 6 speed is $4500.

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Surprisingly enough I found a ton cheaper than we expected. But 100% agree with you. You and I both have gone down the rabbit hole 😅🔥

    • @Borp56
      @Borp56 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia STis are ridiculously expensive in my area, so when it came to the decision point for me I just kept my WRX because it was supposedly only worth $7500 trade in on an STi that was $21k lol. If I had to do it over today I’d buy an STi, but having owned my WRX for years selling it just to buy an STi wouldn’t make any sense financially.

    • @xil3ntkha0s
      @xil3ntkha0s ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Borp56 I should have bought the STi in hindsight but I didn’t know Subaru was going to put it on the back burner. My WRX is going to be paid off in a few months. I’ll probably look for a reputable place to do the transmission swap at least. I agree that it isn’t the best financial decision to trade in a paid off WRX for a used STi. Especially right now.

  • @loganburnett677
    @loganburnett677 ปีที่แล้ว

    When I bought my used 17 wrx the same year model sti were 10k more so I went with the wrx. I wish I got the sti though 😂

  • @jugado219
    @jugado219 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Do same video but FA20 2015+ pls!!!!

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      👀👀 I'll add it to the list

  • @rotaryx3
    @rotaryx3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I buy a 2010 STi hatchback and put a 2015+ STi dashboard

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      How you get it to fit 👀

    • @rotaryx3
      @rotaryx3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Excuse me, I meant that I would buy a STi hatchback and put a dash from 2015+ , sorry! 😅

  • @nissan1580sx
    @nissan1580sx ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A more unusual way of doing it would be to just purchase a rolling shell and then proceed to transplant all STI running gear into it. Yes I tend to agree it would be more wiser and cost efficient to have bought the STI version in the first place

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      If you can snag a solid shell for a good price and don't mind doing the swap 100% 🔥

    • @nissan1580sx
      @nissan1580sx ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Smeedia a late model 2022 STI here costs AUD$78k

    • @uwisho
      @uwisho ปีที่แล้ว

      @@nissan1580sx ridiculous isn’t it. I think prices will come back down to earth over next 12 months

  • @giovannihernandez5486
    @giovannihernandez5486 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The last part where he said my wrx is faster than ur STI is what it’s all about 👌 plus Bugeye and GD wagon people can’t buy STI’s 😪

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว

      True 😭 for bug eyes swaps are the only way 💔

  • @HeidiFegles
    @HeidiFegles 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Sti swap with a 5 speed is much more affordable unless you have an 02-03 wrx 5 speed, don’t even think about it. Go 4.44 5 speed. Quicker than shit and it’s got 1mm wider gears.

  • @acidmike3535
    @acidmike3535 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like the 11-14 wrx wheels over the sti especially since they come in the dark gray

  • @Mathuzela31569
    @Mathuzela31569 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If this car ends up going away you should do it again with either a Forester or a GD chassis :D

    • @Smeedia
      @Smeedia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Let's be honest here. We all know the 04 sti will end up like this 😅

  • @cjbeuro2145
    @cjbeuro2145 ปีที่แล้ว

    Can you make a video discussing the different generations of sti/wrx and which gen is “best” or “most efficient.” Not taking the looks into consideration because we all have our favorite but I’m curious on the differences when looking at purchasing one. Downsides, upsides etc etc.

  • @Torque.Export
    @Torque.Export ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for videos...good content!! What did you do with cam gears ? Did you swap or turn counter cloak one teeth?

  • @Tazytots
    @Tazytots ปีที่แล้ว

    Don't STIs of that make have wide body bumpers and the WRX hatchback doesn't? Did they both start getting the wide body after 2009?

  • @craxclimber
    @craxclimber 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What about sti swapping a GD hatch because I love the car ! haha