Even from the other side of the world (I'm currently in Babo, Papua!) I can't resist a good EVO/Scooby argument.
I will freely admit that for track work, and flat out road work the EVo is a much better car for the road. It's faster, more focussed and gets the job done very wel out of the box. It's a bit like comparing the Exige to the Elise. Very similar, but aimed at different people with differert iewpoints on cars.
Where the Scooby score more points is in a daily driver. Suspension is a bit softer and more compliant, fuel lasts a bit longer between fill-ups, much less frequent trips to the dealer for servicing/regular work. Most recent Imprezas are 10k/yearly whatever comes first. Doesn't sound much, but if it's one or two days less a year spent going to/from the dealer then it's good in my books.
Impreza is also better for the family, especially if you have a couple of kids who travel regularly in the back. Been in bit quieter and more comfortable inside makes all the difference.
One of the things for me though, is that you can still have fun, even when driving at 40 - 50% of the cars ability. The EVO is one of those cars that simply has to be driven fast all the time. I think I described it before as having a little devil on your shoulder, just encouraging you to go faster all the time - the car just feel right tootling along at commuting speeds.
There's no doubt though, on smooth roads, or on track, the way the EVO is set-up is much better than an equivalent Impreza out of the box. Sure you can change the suspension etc to make them almost equal, but then you lose out on some of the refinement benefits. You can get much more power, but then need more regular servicing etc.
Both are great cars, but at the end of the day, you have to think of what you are using it for 90% of the time. There's no point buying a Seven for example as a daily commuter for all weathers, when you sometimes need to take clients to lunch. There are some times when it just wouldn't be right. However, on track they will wipe the floor with most things and give the driver a huge amount of fun.
Scotty - you'll still be mroe than welcome at the SIDC days - in fact we have been trying to encourage more EVO owners to come along on a regular basis.
Cheers
John