The st is going to be quicker and the suspension better. If you want a balls out performance car wait for the focus RS to come. The ST is a nice quick car and has good support but I couldn't justify paying the price for not getting that much. I feel I got more for my money with the F5. In all honesty I would not lease the ST I would buy it. That way you can do stuff to the car the way you want and not think your putting money into the car that you possibly might not keep. If you have never driven stick you will get used to it fast and they are fun to drive but if your in a ton of traffic then it sucks.
Edit: I actually drove a ST and I did love the car for sure. Only thing for me was that the seats were uncomfortable because of my back. If it would have came with a few more features I would have bought it asap because of what they were offering me. I was getting the ST3 fully loaded in black but couldn't get past the price. If you talk to them you can try to throw in a edu tune and intake with exhaust and it will be all under warranty. Thats the nice part but I am still happy with my F5 and feel I have more room in the F5 since I am 6'3
Edit: I actually drove a ST and I did love the car for sure. Only thing for me was that the seats were uncomfortable because of my back. If it would have came with a few more features I would have bought it asap because of what they were offering me. I was getting the ST3 fully loaded in black but couldn't get past the price. If you talk to them you can try to throw in a edu tune and intake with exhaust and it will be all under warranty. Thats the nice part but I am still happy with my F5 and feel I have more room in the F5 since I am 6'3