AirKnight - The only change for 2003 WRX's is the lighted ignition switch, and the new yellow color. The supposed front-end change isn't happening until 2004 at the earliest.
As far as the comparison goes, the WRX is just awesome. I test drove one last year. I just went for a test drive, and nearly walked out with the car
If it wasn't for the poor trade-in value they were giving me, I probably would have done the deal. Acceleration is crazy, AWD is great, the seats are incredible, and the look (inside and out) grows on you after driving the car. The doors are light and tinny, the paint is prone to chipping, and the suspension "feels" vague, though it grips when it needs to.
If you get one, get the short shifter, STi shift knob, and the boost gauge. Money well spent.
