What they are

• Lexus IS 300 AWD
  Luxury compact sedan, 3.5L V6, 6-speed auto, full-time AWD. Comfort, quiet, long-term reliability.
• Subaru WRX STI (EJ257)
  Performance sedan or hatch, 2.5L turbo flat-four, 6-speed manual, performance AWD with DCCD. Fast, raw, track-capable.

Speed

• STI is much quicker. Roughly 0 to 60 mph in about 4.7 to 5.2 sec.
• IS 300 AWD is brisk, roughly 6.5 to 7.2 sec.
  If “what’s faster” matters, STI wins easily.

Daily use

• Lexus rides smoother, is quieter, has nicer seats and materials, easier in traffic, better long-trip car.
• STI is louder and stiffer, clutch and gearing keep you engaged. Terrific steering and brakes but more tiring in city use.

Winter

• Both have good AWD.
• STI has more performance-oriented torque split and can feel more planted on throttle with proper winter tires.
• Lexus is very secure and drama-free. Ground clearance is similar and not SUV-like.

Fuel and operating cost

• Both typically want premium.
• Lexus gets better mileage and is gentler on consumables.
• STI eats pricier tires and brakes, and insurance is usually higher.

Reliability and age risks

• Lexus 2GR V6 uses a timing chain, known for excellent durability if serviced. Check for regular fluid changes and suspension wear at this mileage.
• STI EJ257 uses a timing belt. Even with low kilometers, the belt is due by time on a 2012. Verify belt, water pump, pulleys by date, not just km. Confirm the car is stock or professionally tuned. Hard use or poor tuning can risk ringlands or bearings.

Resale

• STI tends to hold value if unmodified and clean.
• Lexus depreciates more gently than most luxury sedans but is not collectible.

Which fits what

• Choose STI if you want speed, a manual gearbox, and a fun weekend car that you also drive in winter with good tires.
• Choose Lexus if you want a dependable daily with comfort, lower hassle, and strong long-term reliability.

What to check on these exact cars

Lexus IS 300 AWD, 171k km

• Service records, especially transmission and differential fluids
• Front control arm bushings, brakes, and wheel bearings
• Rust underneath given Manitoba winters
• All keys and working safety systems, camera, sensors

2012 WRX STI, 79k km

• Timing belt by time, not km
• Compression test if possible, no mods or a documented pro tune
• Clutch wear, diff noises, synchros
• Tire matching on all four, brake rotor condition
• Rust at rockers, subframe, brake lines
• Evidence of track use and any launch-control abuse