SwiftGTI
Go Kart Champion
I'm not even saying I would buy an ST over a GTI if I was buying today... well I probably would. But having driven both on a "track" the ST was just much more fun, handled better, more nuetral with a bit more possible oversteer rather than understeer non stop like in the GTI. Also, the power level felt very similar to my stage 1 GTI, I love the seats, etc. There's a lot to like about that car and I honestly don't mind the looks or the interior. The GTI's are definitely preferable though.
I think once I upgrade the RSB on my car it will be pretty close... once you put better tires on the GTI and VAGCOM to defeat the stability it can actually be more fun. I felt lift off oversteer at my last auto-x (first time I'd had stability off) and was pleasantly surprised.
My problem with the Focus ST is how cramped the rear seats are. I adjusted the front driver's seat for myself, then sat in the rear and my knees were nearly touching the seatback. That doesn't happen in my GTI.
The other issue is the lack of a dual-clutch option to make it work as a shared car with a wife.
From a performance standpoint though, I agree, I would definitely go with the Focus ST over a GTI.