If you're averaging 30+ in the STi (what a horrible name), then I'd say do the commute. Do you know how long it'd take to make up $3k plus mods and rent to move closer? Never, I'd say.
I could sell you my Echo for an inflated price and you have 50mpg potential right off the bat, plus I'd make a profit vs. what it's really worth!
Sure it gets a p0420 code every 300mi or so. It's a CARB certified car having been sold in CA originally and I guarantee it's reliability and that it'll pass smog...
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'97 Honda Civic DX Coupe 5MT - dead 2/23
'00 Echo - dead 2/17
'14 Chrysler Town + Country - My DD, for now
'67 Mustang Convertible - gone 1/17