Ide go full Cosworth long block closed deck and o ringed. Then an EFR turbo and full race exhaust manifold and rotated kit and run 500-550 whp for while.
For whatever reason I couldn't get an RS, I would just drive my matrix for awhile longer until I can find a good deal on a sti hatchback like the one in mofoRS's post and look into building the engine on it and some other things. My original plan was to look at getting an STi new or old and sell off my matrix, but once news of the RS popped up and heard it was coming to 'Murica I decided why not try to get an RS instead since pricing will be similar.
I haven't really thought about a plan B as I'm dead set on getting an RS (Black, RS2, forged wheels, no sunroof). I've been in regular contact with my dealer, especially recently as things seem to be getting closer to being able to order. I guess if I can't get one I'll just keep driving my ST3. It's got 66k miles on it now and I'm ready for something new.
its on the list, but I have trouble getting it up for VW products. my wifes 2011 tdi sportwagen has multiple stupid issues that combined leave a bad impression of VW. you can have all the fit and finish in the world, but when rear door hinges rust (chinese steel?) and dash electronics flicker at and sunroofs rattle...
on paper im a fan of the R, just wonder about some aspects of mechanical and electrical quality/longevity
After reading comments majority of people would switch to muscle car vs. somewhat of a "tunner"(STi's, foRS, etc.).
I'm curious about it? Not that is bad or anything, at the contrary, but I'm just curios to why that kinda of a change. Also, would you use foRS as a DD or no?I don't know if I would use SS (for example) as my daily, especially in Midwest during winters.
I'm definitely with you there. Here in Western New York a muscle car is pointless as a DD. That's what is so appealing about the RS to me. Much like the STi I suppose. After driving a new STi though...no way. I owned a 2007 STi Limited and I loved that car, but they've gotten too big and ponderous and haven't updated that motor. Honestly, I believe the Focus RS will light a fire under Subaru. I hope so.
No plan B for me. I'll do what I gotta do to have the RS this Spring....everything accept pay ADM
Many options to consider. Going to evaluate the Focus RS against the new high performance 4 cylinder turbo cars. Mazdaspeed 3, Civic Type R, Dodge Dart SRT4. Alternatively, may go the aftermarket turbo route with my 2003 Evo with just 52,000 miles and shoot for 400 WHP with a nice wide powerband on Pump 93 (E85 stations not close to me). Obviously, the Focus RS intrigues me as I think I could come close to that figure with just bolt on mods, aftermarket cams and stock turbo.
Drive the wheels off my ST and buy either a Mustang or a F150. I do a lot of home remodeling in the summers and at some point, I really need a truck in my life. Holding out for the new Ranger but if I can't obtain a RS at a reasonable price, I might just take a break from the sport compact scene for a while.
I'm curious about the Fusion ST that's been spied recently. Sounds like it might be a fun car if Ford goes with the 2.7l twin scroll and AWD. Really liking the idea of AWD for the faster 0-60 time in addition to handling/cornering which is why the RS was is/was so appealing.
If the RS doesn't blow my freakin mind, or something comes up that I can't get one, I have a couple backups:
1) Miata or Fiat 124 or apparently a Miata-based, updated FR-S. Auto-x my Mk1 Focus til it explodes. Give it a hero's funeral.
2) Mustang GT or Camaro SS, if I wind up liking them. Fit pulverizing suspension.
3) lease some appalling, bland POS for work, get something ridiculous and old for fun: Alfa Romeo anything, FD RX-7, RX-8, MR2, how much does an old Elise go for now...?
4) I might really like a Fiesta St/Focus St/WRX/GTI