When i went to the autoshow, I liked the feel of the VIII MR's interior, clutch, and shifter much better then the STI. I didn't drive either obviously. I found the design off the evo tasteful and I did find the STI wing offensive to the eyes. Also, if you are looking at the newer cars, don't buy the horse collar, it is hideous imho. As far as performance I think they are about even. Reliability, i hear many things back and forth, but alot of wrx people have been complaining about needing turbo timers because the turbos have oil issues. On the other hand some evo's have the tranny issue. I think it is a toss up between the two, but the evo has a slight edge. The evo is lighter.