Yeah, a stock 5.0 is fairly fast but a stock WRX is just as fast, if not quicker off the line cause of the AWD. And a stock WRX definitely out-handles and out-brakes a stock 5.0, especially the older pre-94' fox-chassis 5.0s. Guys with those usually just drag race them, they don't worry about turning or stopping. The 94' and up cars were definitely an improvement, they have a stiffer chassis and better brakes, but still not anything to be excited about. That's why most of my heavy modifications have been to the chassis/suspension and brakes on my car, cause I like to autocross. The power upgrades I've done at a much slower pace, cause it already had a fairly good engine... down here at sea level at least, up there in Reno/Tahoe it's definitely starved for air. And no Scott, I can't go forced induction, that would kick me out of street modified class.
I think when this motor gives out in a few years I might have the block rebuilt with a 5.4L stroker kit... hehehe.