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Of course--the STI is the best "winter-beater" ever.
Before the STI I had an Impreza RS with viscous front and center LSDs. I also have an Audi S4 Avant with Audi's Torsen center diff + electronics AWD system. Before that I've also owned older Audis with locking diffs and an AWD Celica rally car with viscous and plate-type diffs.
The STI's AWD system is just incredible in snow and ice. It is completely separate from the ABS system, unlike the S4, so you can modulate traction with your left foot on the brake. With all three differentials limiting slip, it puts the power down very effectively. The STI's ground clearance is only low compared to an SUV. It has more clearance than the Audi. One more thing--lesser Subarus have a somewhat twitchy ABS system that can overreact in snow and ice. The STI has a much better tuned system that let's you get much closer to the edge before it disables your brakes entirely.
The one area where the Audi system excels is if you drive a lot without paying attention. It's very active and will shut you down immediately if you start sliding. That's a big benefit when driving home on a wintery night after a big dinner and a few glasses of wine.
In my opinion, the STI is a teriffic winter car for an enthusiast driver.
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