I tell you what owning all the different cars I have there problems or complaints always seem to mirror themselves. Search transmission on any wrx forum and you will find numerous threads about how people hate that five speed and it is too notchy or they cant downshift to 1st unless they are stopped. I never had any of those problems. About the engine i don't think one is any more or less refined over the other. Both are great cars and fall into the best bang for the buck category. I will always love my little silver WRX.
Tony
Tony