[squelchy451]

Hi. I am in the market for a new car and after having had a wonderfully modded GTI with electrical repairs that cost as much as mods, I'm wanting for something more reliable unless it's a RWD, where it gets a pass in exchange for great handling abilities.

Enter Civic LX manual and the BRZ. They represent two different choices--one a reliable car with good handling dynamics for a FWD car and the other a car meant to have fun in.

I can afford both, but with the Civic I'm looking at a much lower down payment, lower monthly payments, and definitely lower operating costs (fuel, maintenance, etc).

I am in the long run if I decide to go in either car and I want to make a choice where I don't look back with regrets. With the Civic I can make my peace with the fact I made a more mature choice in getting a reliable Honda, and with a BRZ I'll be too busy driving the crap out of it to think about things about money.

What would you do? Anybody driven both extensively?

Most of my driving is spirited city driving, with canyon cruises a couple times a month, and maybe autocross down the line.

 

[sonicBOOMgray]

The best FWD car with a MT, forget about it, I would go with the Subie.

 

[Glideslope]

If you need AWD then the Subaru is a no brainer, IMO. I live in a cold climate and have never seen a BRZ with FWD only. Personally IMO, the Civic is much more enjoyable on long trips, smoother ride, more responsive, insanely good MPG. The most important part is to stay within your budget. I don't have experience with the 2.0L with the MT, however, I believe it is the same unit in my EX-T. It's a superb unit. My understanding is the BRZ has a new MT unit for 2018 with big improvements.

Good luck, and STAY within that budget !!!

 

[caseyp]

Out of the box, I would go with the BRZ. They're both slow stock but you're able to have a little more fun with BRZ since its RWD and setup pretty well to take corners. If you plan on doing any modifications down the road, I would go with the Civic. They are a lot more receptive to mods. The BRZ/FRS' are money pits to make any faster.

 

[Glideslope]

Apologies for my first post. I confused the BRZ with the Crosstrek. I know nothing about the BRZ.

 

[DavidPeab]

As a "Subaru" guy, I would have bought the BRZ if it fulfilled my needs as well as the Sport Touring is now. If you can afford it and want it, get the BRZ and enjoy.