I've just gone through this exact quandary myself. It was pretty much between the new WRX and a VF SSV redline. They both perform very well. However I think there are some real world points to note.
With the WRX, it is really grippy when going around roundabouts in the wet. It didn't even look like losing grip. If you did, it would tend to understeer.
The interior of the WRX is OK, but its a little tight and the space between the clutch and drivers footrest is minimal. For me being the best part go 6ft3, I had to put the seat all the way back and it wasn't quite far enough. It also only has single zone aircon. But its still a nice place to be.
You've got to give the engine quite a bit to get it buzzing, but when you do it goes go well. However, as your own car which you drive every day and probably want to keep, you might not want to drive like this the whole time.
The WRX's fuel consumption is not the greatest for a 4 cylinder, and I am pretty sure it requires 95 Ron or better. Its only a couple of litres per 100km worse off than an SSV. The engine in it did sound good for a 4 cylinder, but that brings me to my next point.
Which one of the two cars could you live with for a long time - both in length of ownership and lengthy drives? If I read this right, you might be in semi-retirement or retirement so you are probably after something to look after you in terms of comfort etc as much as anything. The WRX, you would enjoy but if you took a long drive, you might need to get out and stretch more. A non issue with the SSV in my opinion.
I got quotes for insurance for both, and the WRX costs more. Not too much, but enough nonetheless.
The WRX is a good car and it came mighty close to being in my driveway. But I look at it like this - Ive had my VE SSV since the release of the VE. Its a car I've never gotten sick of, and I can't say the same for any other cars I've owned. I'd like the WRX for maybe a couple of years but there would be things that would get to me after a while. I'm nitpicking here, however these two cars are very close in the I want it stakes.
I know Ive done long drives in the SSV and when I got out, it didn't feel like I drove for any longer than 20 minutes. And I know the VF is the same because a family member has one and took it for a 14 hour drive. He got out of his car and didn't feel and discomfort. I know that wouldn't be the case in the WRX.
The SSV would have real world ability to drive well at reasonable speeds, but if you want to flog it, its there. And you just can't beat the purr of a V8.
The final clincher? There are still very good deals to be had. a 5 year proper factory warranty would help ease your wife's mind. I also think that the VF is a well sorted car. Add 3 years of free servicing, and great prices to be had, the decision isn't hard. As mentioned before, its a final-ish chance to get a locally made muscle car - which it is an awesome car. And even when they stop making them here, parts and associated costs will still be very reasonable.
You live life once. Enjoy it. Sometimes you just gotta bite the bullet. I took this philosophy yesterday, the result being a new VF SSV redline coming my way
Just my thoughts. I hope they are relevant for you and help in some way.
