Both are great cars. I have driven both. See the thread I started in the non-Renault car section below on the FiST. It is a personal decision about what is right for you but I am absurdly in love with my FiST and would buy the 2014 car every day of the week. I had a budget of up to about $60K and this is what I chose.
These things are German made and there is an amazing bond going on between a very stiff body shell, steering, power and brakes. I also have a 2011 Golf GTI with 300hp and go for the FiST keys any chance I get. The 2011 250 I drove felt heavier, older and a bit creaky.
I highly recommend getting a FiST with a stage 1 tune and slightly lower suspension in your budget. These cars have excellent low down torque, perfect driving position and clean gear change and feel so light in everything it does. Perhaps better visibility than the Meg in your blind spot and perhaps better on resale. Drive both a much as you can to decide.
Get on YouTube to see Matt Farrah of the smoking tire banging on about the FiST, that's what got me thinking.
In terms of ride, it is easily improved with your lowering springs. Eibachs or mountune. I use mine as a daily.
The recaros in the FiST do break in and soften up a bit. I find them ideal.