I owed a modified classic shape impreza turbo (RR'ed at 270bhp & 270 lb/ft) before my mk2 V6, so felt I had to add my views here.
After mods the scoob was faster, but thats not the point.
You buy a V6 because of the whole package, not just straight line speed / acceleration.
It is MID engined and rear wheel drive. Much more challenging to drive (than FWD or AWD) and thus ultimately more rewarding. Plus in the hands of a good driver (not you average jo) dare i say faster too! Racing cars have a similar layout for a reason!
All the "slow" V6's you see are standard and compared to modifed cars. Stripped out modded cars will always be faster than standard cars with leather, electric everything, climate control, etc etc. Because of the rarity and cost your less likely to strip all the leather etc out of a V6. If you did and added nitrous or a couple of turbos, then you'd see!
350bhp and lots of torque (plus the grip to use it!) can be achieved.
I'm not having a pop at any of the FWD boys but you need to look further than drag racing to understand why people buy V6's. I'd also openly admit bag for buck they lag behind the 172 / 182 crowd.
You buy em cos you love em! :approve:
Peter