WRX: Test drive part II: 5-speed
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From: Boulder
A few days ago I posted my impressions on my first WRX test drive; it was less than glowing. I promised a follow-up when I got to drive a 5-speed, so here it is...
Recap:It was not a great first impression. I said the car had an average-to-unatractive exterior design, a busy interior, woefull low-RPM performance, and softer handling than I expected.
Response:In the first review, I disclosed up front that I tested an automatic wagon, as that was all they had prepped and ready to drive. I also went out of my way to AVOID any direct comparisons to the S2000, as I was not interested in the WRX as a replacement for the S2K, but as a winter sports car.Nonetheless, frequent responses where how unfair it was to test an automatic, how unfair it was to compare to the S2000, How I was a Subaru hater (even though I've owned 3 in the past five years and bought Sube's for both my sister and sister-in-law) etc.,etc.
Follow-up:Today I drove a 5-speed sedan. A much improved experience. With the clutch and 5-speed, you can pass through the flat spot easily and the car feels quick. Not blindingly fast, mind you, but very sporting. Handling, IMHO, is still soft for my tastes and not overly confidence inspiring. I suppose these where compromises made for the US market, including mediocore tires, softer spring rates, etc. With some upgrades (chip, exhaust, springs, shocks) I'm sure the car would be a fun performer for probably under $28,000. A bargain of sorts.
Conclusion:Hmmm... I would definitely warn people to TEST DRIVE THE AUTO. I wouldn't buy an automatic WRX on a bet. The wagons styling still repels me. The Sedan styling is acceptable, but not exceptional. The price is close to the 325Xi and A41.8Q, both of which are better looking and more substantial, but possibly lower performing. If Subaru either had fantastic performance and so-so looks or fantastic looks and the current WRX level of performance, it be a winner for me. Instead I pine for what we did not get. A great-looking, sub-$25K, superb performing all-whee-drive sports sedan. I may still buy one, but it will be a compromise...
I also reiterate my prediction that WRX's will be available at typical Subaru pricing levels (a few hundred over invoice) in the near future. There seems to be PLENTY of WRX's for anyone looking, and it's only the first week of their introduction!
[Edited by pfb on 03-20-2001 at 08:49 PM]
Recap:It was not a great first impression. I said the car had an average-to-unatractive exterior design, a busy interior, woefull low-RPM performance, and softer handling than I expected.
Response:In the first review, I disclosed up front that I tested an automatic wagon, as that was all they had prepped and ready to drive. I also went out of my way to AVOID any direct comparisons to the S2000, as I was not interested in the WRX as a replacement for the S2K, but as a winter sports car.Nonetheless, frequent responses where how unfair it was to test an automatic, how unfair it was to compare to the S2000, How I was a Subaru hater (even though I've owned 3 in the past five years and bought Sube's for both my sister and sister-in-law) etc.,etc.
Follow-up:Today I drove a 5-speed sedan. A much improved experience. With the clutch and 5-speed, you can pass through the flat spot easily and the car feels quick. Not blindingly fast, mind you, but very sporting. Handling, IMHO, is still soft for my tastes and not overly confidence inspiring. I suppose these where compromises made for the US market, including mediocore tires, softer spring rates, etc. With some upgrades (chip, exhaust, springs, shocks) I'm sure the car would be a fun performer for probably under $28,000. A bargain of sorts.
Conclusion:Hmmm... I would definitely warn people to TEST DRIVE THE AUTO. I wouldn't buy an automatic WRX on a bet. The wagons styling still repels me. The Sedan styling is acceptable, but not exceptional. The price is close to the 325Xi and A41.8Q, both of which are better looking and more substantial, but possibly lower performing. If Subaru either had fantastic performance and so-so looks or fantastic looks and the current WRX level of performance, it be a winner for me. Instead I pine for what we did not get. A great-looking, sub-$25K, superb performing all-whee-drive sports sedan. I may still buy one, but it will be a compromise...
I also reiterate my prediction that WRX's will be available at typical Subaru pricing levels (a few hundred over invoice) in the near future. There seems to be PLENTY of WRX's for anyone looking, and it's only the first week of their introduction!
[Edited by pfb on 03-20-2001 at 08:49 PM]
Joined: Oct 2000
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From: Nashville
One of the good things is VAN Bortel Subaru in upstate New York sells all subarus for $400 over invoice.......
that makes the car something like $23k...which is not a bad deal (if we all weren't tainted by owning faster S2000's)
add a chip/exhaust/intake and you have 260hp
Scot (waiting for EVO VII)
that makes the car something like $23k...which is not a bad deal (if we all weren't tainted by owning faster S2000's)
add a chip/exhaust/intake and you have 260hp
Scot (waiting for EVO VII)
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Joined: Nov 2000
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From: Lewisville
That is correct. Eventually you can buy a lot more than that from the factory. Check out http://www.cobbtuning.com They offer tuned cars with the factory warranty.
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