I've recently (a week ago) traded in my 240SX for an Impreza RS Sedan.

I was out tooling around today in the fresh-fallen snow, and found (almost painfully http://208.9.184.110/NonCGI/eek.gif ) that the Suba handles a bit differently than my old RWD.

Now, I know that FWDs usually go straight when they lose traction, and RWDs typically fishtail, however, the Suba does neither... or both. I find this a bit unnerving, and a little unpredictable.

A question for more seasoned drivers: How long did it take you to adapt from your old two-wheel-drive cars? And is there anything predictable about AWDs when driving on slippery surfaces (four-wheel slide, fishtails, etc)?

I know the NCSC has a winter driving course (canceled due to unseasonable weather this year)... I think I'll be on it next year...

[This message has been edited by Skeandhu (edited March 12, 2000).]

Took me but 2 minutes to learn the car http://208.9.184.110/NonCGI/smile.gif But of course I took it WAY SLOW at the beginning..only when I knew how the car behaves did I really 'push' it.

Yeah, I've experienced both going stratight with loss of traction, and fishtailing. The Subies are all about control however. With either of these situations, a careful mixture of throttle and steering input will quickly correct and get you where you want to go. Basically, you have to practice a bit in an empty parking lot. After that you will learn the dynamics of the car, and be able to do (almost) anything you want. However, don't get too overconfident in the snow, many Subie drivers have bitten curbs and have done some damage. With just a bit of practice, you can really learn alot.

Skeandhu,

You should come out to our next meeting. I think it on the 23rd of March.

We're pretty disappointed since we had to cancel our winter driving school because of the warm weather. I had fun last night though with the fresh snowfall.

Do you the stock RE92 tires or did you buy some winter tires?

Send me your email to Robin@ottawasubaru.com and I'll put you down our our mailing list.


Robin
National Capital Subaru Club www.ottawasubaru.com (http://www.ottawasubaru.com)

Robin: I will definately be there on the 23rd. I look forward to meeting other Subie owners in the area. As for the tires, I've stuck with stock rubber for now; spring is coming, and chances are that we won't see another snow fall for a while (I may be proven wrong http://208.9.184.110/NonCGI/wink.gif )

Keiho & Stickee: Thanks for the tips. Guess I'll be taking it easy for the first while... at least until the break-in period is over http://208.9.184.110/NonCGI/biggrin.gif