[doberzus]

Had a 2009 135 6MT, 2011 STI, 2012 WRX, 2013 Evo X MR, and recently sold my 2015 STI when I initially put an order for my 6MT F80 M3. Not an M2, but close....

The STI is a launch monster.... but unless your slipping/dumping the clutch to redline at every single stop light, the STI feels like a DOG. Mine was stage 2(DP+protune) and burnt a valve at 3000 miles, tuned since 1500. The engine is garbage unless you plan to keep it stock.

The STIs 5-60 time is dog slow because the shift into 3rd to hit 60 is one hell of a handicap. Wish the new STIs had the 2007 STI gearing(my favorite STI).

My stock F80 pulls like a freight TRAIN from 1st on compared to the STI. Hell even my N55 X1 felt like it pulled as fast as the STI! Straight 6, turbo is going to feel a hell of a lot smoother than a short geared, 4 banger with a turbo. As I'm sure you know the STI doesn't hit until 3-4K rpm. You will adore the rush of torque. In the real world the M2 will dominate, and you will have no regrets.... Until that day when it's slightly cold and or wet and you want to slam 1st or take off from a light, that is where the STI shines.

I think the STI is a blast as a fun DD and the stoplight kills were always fun. The 0-30 is like 1.2 seconds, and the 0-60 is like 4.5.

I don't track, so I can't emphasize the handling part. I would bet you could take the STI more "to the limit" on the street, compared to the M2.... If you want to risk losing your license doing such a thing.