I have just got my STi8 where I wanted it to be when I put my 2.5 lump in 18 months ago. It was an expensive process from the very beginning and just got more and more expensive

But after loads of aggro and empty pockets it sits at what I consider to be a very drivable 425bhp / 419 ft lb at 1.5bar of boost.

But to echo Niges comment, it doesn't really count for much (IMHO) if the suspension set up is not right. That was a major part of my project for me, getting that right.

At the end of the day though, it's all down to what floats your boat. Some people want big power, some people want drivability etc etc. There is no right or wrong if it's what YOU want.