For many years, the Subaru WRX STI’s only rival was the Mitsubishi Lancer EVo, but now the market for high-performance, all-wheel drive compact cars is more crowded than ever.

One of the current STI’s most competent rivals is the VW Golf R, which in rated in Europe at 300PS (296hp), 20hp more than the Subaru. But in South Africa, where the following drag race video has been shot, the VW Golf R has been detuned to exactly 280PS (276hp) for hot climate reasons.

Since the two models produce exactly the same output in South Africa, a drag race was inevitable.

Both models used in the video were stock, with the main difference between them being the transmission. While the Subaru WRX STI is only offered with a six-speed manual, the VW Golf R also comes with an optional six-speed double-clutch gearbox, an option the car from the following video had.

I guess you see where this is going, so head down to watch the race before I completely spoil it for you.

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