I agree with your opinion on the 08, it had 225 hp (not sure on the torque), Subaru heard the complaints and put the STI size turbo in for the 09. 09 has 265 hp/244tq.
depending on what publication you read, the 09 wrx will do 4.7sec 0-60. 09 WRX is actually faster than the 08 STI (i'd be mad)
Got the 09 WRX for $24,500. Not too shabby.