I must admit the 2011 STI does look pretty good but I still think the 04-07 models are still the best. Every time I see a 04-07 STI on the road, they just look so good!
@horizontalfour You can't reasonably upgrade the 2007 STI to the new pillow-ball bushing design. You can add an anti-lift kit for a similar benefit, but in doing so, you compromise by adding a significant amount of roadnoise. But, going back the review, we were comparing two stock cars... not modified. And, even if you want to mod a car, it's always best to start with the best possible platform. On the point of styling, that's always a subjective choice, of course.
Sadly vast majority of people especially back then were stuck in this stupid mindset thinking aftermarket is automaticly better, completely forgetting how good a properly done OEM setup can be, and anything outside it will come with bigger or lesser tradeoffs and isnt just some magical "upgrade" like in Need For Speed Underground 2, especially when it comes to suspension. I myself think more about something a bit less dramatic with my mind on Legacy 3.0R Spec B.
@horizontalfour Eh? Because the owner of the car didn't have BBS's and didn't have the OEM tires. The compromise we made got the car as close as was possible to being equal to the 2011's rubber compound, and having a comparable compound -- in the real world -- makes a bigger difference than unsprung weight in the tests we prepared. You're assuming a lot if you feel Subaru would have any issue with our results or methodology given the context presented. I know them well, and doubt they would.
@ethosflux Kind of hard (impossible) to find BBS's with a fresh set of stock rubber for a comparison like this. We don't have the budget to just run out and buy them, either. We present the data, you can use your head and make your own conclusions. Or, just watch and enjoy. Either way, thanks for watching!
@horizontalfour Considering the 2007's softer suspension setup, squishy bushings, less crisp turn-in, smaller turbo and dated looks -- why exactly is the 07 STI "better" than the 2011? I can't wait to hear your reasoning.
Great review guys. I've been waiting on something like this for the 2011 STI. One question though. How much power is gained in the 2011 STI from the COBB access port? Thanks
07 should have had stock wheels for a more accurate comparison. The hawkeye is the most desired design per the used market sale prices and still keeps up with current designs; especially when equipped with JDM parts (check out the S204 for example). The hawkeye was the last of the "rally cars", as it should be since the current demand comes from vapors/basic folks who want comfort (don't blame them at all).
@8406181100 Thanks for watching. This episode was purposefully aping Top Gear (ie: stating that we're not copying a British show, then we directly lift the setup.) Check out some of our other episodes, specifically the Acura TL review and maybe even the CR-Z vs. TDI show.
@XenoRacing I used to own a 05 RS and I wouldn't call that face sexy. And you have to ask yourself this. Without any WRC wins, without the 22B variant and without all the trappings of rally sport would the GC chassis still be considered a good looking car? Or, would it just be another bland Japanese econobox from the 90s? Is it mean looking because of how it looks or how we know it can perform? (also note: I used to own a GF, 94 wagon.)
A few nitpicks from an 07 sti owner: 1st, the main reason why the 07 is loved so much more is it was the year rally really became popular in the US. 2nd, 07 was the last year of no traction control, simple DCCD (instead of SI Drive DCCD), and a sedan for many years. 3rd, the 2.5 made 2006 world engine of the year. These things cemented how different older models would be from any new models to come out. Another thing to add. Why was the 07 running on the heavier base wheels and not light BBS?
@drivingsports( GOTCHA on the TG mock) I did see the CR-Z, its what lead me here. I also saw the Sonata review and it was great. You guys have great potential and from what i can see a great team ( also behind camera). We need a good auto show state-side and I believe that to be you..soon ;) As i said, I already did subscribed to your channel and will support you as much as possible! Good luck and we are all waiting for more....
@rodgazinya Clever? We say in the first 30 seconds that Cobb is one of our sponsors. We partner with them because they happen to have an awesome product. Not a fan, personally, or reflashing a $30k car with a free, unsupported utility. Does the "open source" reflash still contain illegal EcuTek code?
@PCToolsWikidotcom We've had a request in with Mitsubishi for an EVO for a while now. They don't have any in our local press fleet, unfortunately. But we're hoping they send one up soon.
@drivingsports Great review. Wonderful job. I think many of us would love to have a 2011 wrx and 2011 wrx sti do a 0-60 and 1/4 mile run stock to see which car is faster. A lot of rumor from different sources that wrx is quicker stock. Would love to see this.
Pretty good comparison I would say. However, the 07's STI wasn't on the stock wheels. I believe with the 19.5 lbs BBS wheels, it would have an advantage with lower unsprung weight. Not sure why you guys used the heaviest wheels from the GR STIs and slapped it on an 07... Not stock for stock, so the autocross timing can't really be taken seriously.
I like both. But your truly mistaken if you think that 07's where the best. You played Russian roulette with the 07 EJ257. Some would crack ringlands at 30k miles bone stock. Some would last like the previous 04-06 set ups. 05 was the best IMO. Best exterior look w/ the rear fender flares, 17x8 BBS's, Fist year with the interior change, great motor, great trans. Just get rid of the crappy VF39 and get a GT52 or FP green.
I mean with all the variables aside its sad that the new one got beat by the old one. And think about it the 07 has been on the road longer and has more wear and still beat it what kind of improvements did they make to the 2011
I will admit.. the 05' the 07' I did NOT like them. I hated the look of em. I thought Subaru screwed them up... After a while, they grew on me. Every single model has. I love em each year after a while. I support Subaru for what they do. Each model has had a new experience for them.
i think both cars look awesome but 2007 has that classic STI look that everyone loves but the 2011 has more aggressive look which is needed for a sporty look
Can't help but to notice the creeper peeking out of the car at the end of the video. 7:40 you can see her(?) just peeping over the dash board. They couldn't wait ten seconds for them to get out of the car before filming the closing bit?
and you don't compare the huge price difference between the two? even with inflation accounted for, the 2011 four door is $5-6k more then the 2007.i like the new STi four door but I'm not paying almost $40k out the door for it.
Many believe that the 2007 STI looks better, but stock-for-stock, there's no getting around how the 2011 has stiffer spring rates, improving its agility.
After 2007 they stopped calling it the WRX STi. It's just a STi from 2008 and up. Both models went onto their own model... I hate hearing people call the newer STi's a WRX STi.
@JAS0N1224 It would also require a bigger turbo to make that crank, granted, but you probably knew that. By the way, I was the guy that did the review, and I used to own a 450hp Subaru Legacy GT, as well as several other Subarus.
@Jabid21 amen the 07 styling was more aggressive and unique. the newer models just look like a bubble with some car lines. im not bashing the newer models and i would still take one if i had the option but i just like the 07 style the best. and a close second is the 05 :D
And let me also add that for the price of a 2011 STI, you could buy the 06-07 STI and make it WAY faster around a track than a 2011. Not to mention you could also make it even faster in a straight line.
guys all the time uve showed to us is a difference in weight, so 2011 is for 50kg havier thats why little slower than 2007... but watching this vid i thought i could make a decision which one to choose, but i couldnt yet. so who can tell me? who knows?
My opinion as a dev that makes racing video games and has modeled these cars countless times. The 07 looks terrible with its "jet fighter" inspired double grill and eagle eye headlights. If I had to settle for a beat on used STI I'd get a 04. But since I don't want a beat car I'd get a 2011 because it has so many 22b characteristics with the wide body styling. The 22b has always been a favorite and lifting styling from it will always hit a home run. Like all cars they grow on ppl.
@DTHUGproductions Shed as much weight as possible... Not everyone wants to turn their daily driver into a race car man. For the average driver stage 2 IS in fact a good starter upgrade for your power anyway. Especially for those new to the world of tuning.
One of my friends had a 2008 STI with Cobb access port, intake, Cobb exhaust, and it was tuned by Cobb. It was easily bested by a dead stock 2006 STI in raw acceleration.
I must admit the 2011 STI does look pretty good but I still think the 04-07 models are still the best. Every time I see a 04-07 STI on the road, they just look so good!
So it's a 2007, why would they put the 2008 wheels on it? 07 BBS wheels are basically the lightest practical wheel, aren't the 08 ones heavier?
the 07 subaru does not look old and outdated, id rather get the 07 plate any day
The top gear rip offs are so cringy,
aa72on Lol driver x
2006 Subaru Sti outside + 2015 Inside = life
@horizontalfour You can't reasonably upgrade the 2007 STI to the new pillow-ball bushing design. You can add an anti-lift kit for a similar benefit, but in doing so, you compromise by adding a significant amount of roadnoise. But, going back the review, we were comparing two stock cars... not modified. And, even if you want to mod a car, it's always best to start with the best possible platform. On the point of styling, that's always a subjective choice, of course.
Sadly vast majority of people especially back then were stuck in this stupid mindset thinking aftermarket is automaticly better, completely forgetting how good a properly done OEM setup can be, and anything outside it will come with bigger or lesser tradeoffs and isnt just some magical "upgrade" like in Need For Speed Underground 2, especially when it comes to suspension.
I myself think more about something a bit less dramatic with my mind on Legacy 3.0R Spec B.
also 2007 exterior: bland? Insane.
@PCToolsWikidotcom The launch lag was compensated for in the summary at the end.
@mak450 Your right. However, the source video had little detail in the sides of the 07 at the start of its lap, anyhow.
@horizontalfour Eh? Because the owner of the car didn't have BBS's and didn't have the OEM tires. The compromise we made got the car as close as was possible to being equal to the 2011's rubber compound, and having a comparable compound -- in the real world -- makes a bigger difference than unsprung weight in the tests we prepared. You're assuming a lot if you feel Subaru would have any issue with our results or methodology given the context presented. I know them well, and doubt they would.
@ethosflux Kind of hard (impossible) to find BBS's with a fresh set of stock rubber for a comparison like this. We don't have the budget to just run out and buy them, either. We present the data, you can use your head and make your own conclusions. Or, just watch and enjoy. Either way, thanks for watching!
this is probably the best episode ive seen on your channel. keep up the good work, i want more episodes like this please!
I just test drove one of those STI's yesterday and I cant get it out of my head This will be my next car!!
2011 sti started later in the drag race...and we all know the driver was a mock of Top Gear..
yep soo dahm obvious
Driver X... stop it guys.
I would honestly do anything to get my hands on a 2011 wrx sti. They're my dream car. :[
@horizontalfour Considering the 2007's softer suspension setup, squishy bushings, less crisp turn-in, smaller turbo and dated looks -- why exactly is the 07 STI "better" than the 2011? I can't wait to hear your reasoning.
Great review guys. I've been waiting on something like this for the 2011 STI.
One question though. How much power is gained in the 2011 STI from the COBB access port?
Thanks
@Ubergood Who is this "stig" you speak of?
07 should have had stock wheels for a more accurate comparison. The hawkeye is the most desired design per the used market sale prices and still keeps up with current designs; especially when equipped with JDM parts (check out the S204 for example). The hawkeye was the last of the "rally cars", as it should be since the current demand comes from vapors/basic folks who want comfort (don't blame them at all).
@Gunda27 No hatch in the press fleet right now. We are looking forward to doing *something* with an EVO soon, however.
@8406181100 Thanks for watching. This episode was purposefully aping Top Gear (ie: stating that we're not copying a British show, then we directly lift the setup.) Check out some of our other episodes, specifically the Acura TL review and maybe even the CR-Z vs. TDI show.
Good no biased review. When are you guys planning on doing the new 2011 sti VS the 2011 EVO GSR or MR....
@XenoRacing I used to own a 05 RS and I wouldn't call that face sexy. And you have to ask yourself this. Without any WRC wins, without the 22B variant and without all the trappings of rally sport would the GC chassis still be considered a good looking car? Or, would it just be another bland Japanese econobox from the 90s? Is it mean looking because of how it looks or how we know it can perform? (also note: I used to own a GF, 94 wagon.)
what kinda power can you expect for a COBB accessport? I'm on the market for a 2011 WRX
prob the best test so far... keep going in this direction
if you buy the cobb tuning stuff and install it to your 2011 wrx sti, will the dealership void the warranty?
So how did you felt after test both of them? Why is the 2007 better at everything?
I think you guys need to ease up on the filters, or turn the brightness up. Couldn't even really see the sides of the 07 at the beginning of its lap.
So which is better the hatchback or sedan?
@Monsy11 Seriously, is that the best you can do?
Should've shown the time around the track with the Cobb reprogram. Doubt that it makes a difference
A few nitpicks from an 07 sti owner: 1st, the main reason why the 07 is loved so much more is it was the year rally really became popular in the US. 2nd, 07 was the last year of no traction control, simple DCCD (instead of SI Drive DCCD), and a sedan for many years. 3rd, the 2.5 made 2006 world engine of the year. These things cemented how different older models would be from any new models to come out.
Another thing to add. Why was the 07 running on the heavier base wheels and not light BBS?
@drivingsports( GOTCHA on the TG mock) I did see the CR-Z, its what lead me here. I also saw the Sonata review and it was great. You guys have great potential and from what i can see a great team ( also behind camera). We need a good auto show state-side and I believe that to be you..soon ;) As i said, I already did subscribed to your channel and will support you as much as possible! Good luck and we are all waiting for more....
@shenoudatube We ran out of sunlight. We will be doing something like this in the future, however.
@blake1405 No worries. We'd rather have viewers talking smack than not talking at all.
5:32 ultimate cringe engaged
she's a goofy girl..lol. just leave her alone. I'd hang out with her.
@rodgazinya Clever? We say in the first 30 seconds that Cobb is one of our sponsors. We partner with them because they happen to have an awesome product. Not a fan, personally, or reflashing a $30k car with a free, unsupported utility. Does the "open source" reflash still contain illegal EcuTek code?
how are they in the 14's?
Nice review... Would love to see a 2011 STI Hatch vs Sedan comparo...then winner vs. 2011 EVO MR...
i absolutely love that consumers are able to voice their opinions and it actually is heard and considered. ;) love the sedan
is there anyway the cobb can hurt the suby?
@PCToolsWikidotcom We've had a request in with Mitsubishi for an EVO for a while now. They don't have any in our local press fleet, unfortunately. But we're hoping they send one up soon.
@drivingsports Great review. Wonderful job. I think many of us would love to have a 2011 wrx and 2011 wrx sti do a 0-60 and 1/4 mile run stock to see which car is faster. A lot of rumor from different sources that wrx is quicker stock. Would love to see this.
Also at the end it says manufacturers provide most of the cars (not the 07 in this case) and the time sequences are edited.... Hmmmm.
I love them both! Going for either one I can best afford next year.
7:50 Front windshield - left corner.
@Vinnygil hey, you noticed?
@kimsterjizznugget it's called a reference, they aren't exactly the same caliber as top gear... to consider it a ripoff is stretch.
my black 07 is a monster and looks so good after tint and good wax
It's actually possible... but requires a driver that does well in drag racing and optimal weather conditions.
Pretty good comparison I would say. However, the 07's STI wasn't on the stock wheels. I believe with the 19.5 lbs BBS wheels, it would have an advantage with lower unsprung weight. Not sure why you guys used the heaviest wheels from the GR STIs and slapped it on an 07... Not stock for stock, so the autocross timing can't really be taken seriously.
Great concept comparing the new with the old. The Stig thing was groan inducing however
LOL there's a person in the car in the last sequence. Funny...Can't wait to pick up my 08' STI in a few months! Wewt!
I have a 2013. I think all WRXs and STIs look sweet - new or older!
i don't know why everyone hates the new 2011, i think it looks great!
Great video!
@clig73 I think our PA has tapped the sherry bottle again....
I like both. But your truly mistaken if you think that 07's where the best. You played Russian roulette with the 07 EJ257. Some would crack ringlands at 30k miles bone stock. Some would last like the previous 04-06 set ups.
05 was the best IMO. Best exterior look w/ the rear fender flares, 17x8 BBS's, Fist year with the interior change, great motor, great trans. Just get rid of the crappy VF39 and get a GT52 or FP green.
How is the 07 STI dated??? Anyways I wanna get a 1996 Impreza and stuff an EJ257 in it :)
I mean with all the variables aside its sad that the new one got beat by the old one. And think about it the 07 has been on the road longer and has more wear and still beat it what kind of improvements did they make to the 2011
ah evo vs the subaru. now subaru is going against it self? is like a loose loose thing for them?
I will admit.. the 05' the 07' I did NOT like them. I hated the look of em. I thought Subaru screwed them up... After a while, they grew on me. Every single model has. I love em each year after a while. I support Subaru for what they do. Each model has had a new experience for them.
whats with the floating head in the car at the very end. They really need to make their lap runs more exciting.
Y does that 07 have 08-10 wheels?
04 to 07 STI will always be peoples favorites
i think both cars look awesome but 2007 has that classic STI look that everyone loves but the 2011 has more aggressive look which is needed for a sporty look
why dont they do same with the evo x making it smiler to the 8 &9 ??
i like the style of the 07 but the 11 is more of a modern design but modern doesnt always equal better.
Can't help but to notice the creeper peeking out of the car at the end of the video. 7:40 you can see her(?) just peeping over the dash board. They couldn't wait ten seconds for them to get out of the car before filming the closing bit?
personally I think the hatch looks pretty sick.
and you don't compare the huge price difference between the two? even with inflation accounted for, the 2011 four door is $5-6k more then the 2007.i like the new STi four door but I'm not paying almost $40k out the door for it.
@blake1405 Though we appreciate the positive responses more. ;)
@21min56secs You just compared us to two shows that have 100x our budget. Thanks!
Many believe that the 2007 STI looks better, but stock-for-stock, there's no getting around how the 2011 has stiffer spring rates, improving its agility.
depends on the driver and launch
I guess I have my head way deep into a bucket because I still like the 05 STi over any other.
After 2007 they stopped calling it the WRX STi. It's just a STi from 2008 and up. Both models went onto their own model... I hate hearing people call the newer STi's a WRX STi.
---- 2007 now in the history books. Time now to move onward to better & faster and much better looking.
i own both a 2011 sti and 2007 sti, and after awhile of owning both cars, i like the 07 a hell of alot better
i believe a stock sti did 12.9 in the evo vs sti review the evo did 12.6
@JAS0N1224 It would also require a bigger turbo to make that crank, granted, but you probably knew that. By the way, I was the guy that did the review, and I used to own a 450hp Subaru Legacy GT, as well as several other Subarus.
@Jabid21 amen the 07 styling was more aggressive and unique. the newer models just look like a bubble with some car lines. im not bashing the newer models and i would still take one if i had the option but i just like the 07 style the best. and a close second is the 05 :D
And let me also add that for the price of a 2011 STI, you could buy the 06-07 STI and make it WAY faster around a track than a 2011. Not to mention you could also make it even faster in a straight line.
guys all the time uve showed to us is a difference in weight, so 2011 is for 50kg havier thats why little slower than 2007... but watching this vid i thought i could make a decision which one to choose, but i couldnt yet. so who can tell me? who knows?
Never ever make fun of top gear. I've never even heard of you before today
Why is there a person hiding inside the car at 7:48 ???
My opinion as a dev that makes racing video games and has modeled these cars countless times. The 07 looks terrible with its "jet fighter" inspired double grill and eagle eye headlights. If I had to settle for a beat on used STI I'd get a 04. But since I don't want a beat car I'd get a 2011 because it has so many 22b characteristics with the wide body styling. The 22b has always been a favorite and lifting styling from it will always hit a home run. Like all cars they grow on ppl.
You guys should include this in the description...
Stealed Ideas from:
- Top Gear
- The Battle of the Super Cars
- Speed Racer
I agree with Infernostr. I own an 07 and in my opinion the 04-07's look the best. The '11 sedan looks good but not great... Just my opinion.
@Vinnygil Holy crap, that's brilliant!
We all know the 05/04 body style is best, since Solberg had that style on the WRC podium.
@DTHUGproductions Shed as much weight as possible... Not everyone wants to turn their daily driver into a race car man. For the average driver stage 2 IS in fact a good starter upgrade for your power anyway. Especially for those new to the world of tuning.
Whatever STi you like, you know the GD was the best.
I see drivingsports got themselves a Stig?
I enjoyed this it was fun to watch. The pretty lady was a bit drunk. It was a comedy bonus.
One of my friends had a 2008 STI with Cobb access port, intake, Cobb exhaust, and it was tuned by Cobb. It was easily bested by a dead stock 2006 STI in raw acceleration.
I like THIS STi & the 2007 STi. Hands down.
I don't care what they say. I like the 2007's exterior better. But my favorite is 2005 (blob eye).
Function over form... Now test it on dirt and see the gap get even bigger between the two cars