not close in competition.
wrx wins in all comp, 1/4, 0-60, etc...
for example...
scc had an article that compared the wrx wagon (!!!!!!!!) that beat the rsx pretty well, a coupla tenths in each competition... which is impressive for a WAGON
wrx is alot more flexible, and faster than the rsx. i would definatly go with the wrx. you can get more horsepower, easier, and cheaper out of the wrx.
One of my friends has an RSX Type-S and another has a (special-ordered) automatic WRX (he had to special order it because he is a wuss and there were nothing but manuals on the lot). They've raced a couple times and even though the Type-S usually gets a better start the WRX is clearly the dominant of the two - and its an AUTO. My only complaint about the WRX is that its interior is somewhat cheap-looking in my opinion, and the whole styling of the car doesn't really suit my taste. But for performance - by far the WRX!
the wrx and the rsx type s is not much of a good comparison.
the wrx has more power than the rsx and also for acceleration, 4wd grips better on the road propelling it faster than a FF car.