I'm in the market to buy a 96-2002 Impreza 5spd (would prefer an RS but they are a bit out of my price range). Are there issues I should look for? Common problems? I wish I had time to read up on the forums but I'm kinda in a bind at the moment.

I thought I'd also ask, is the RS really worth it over a regular L? Obviously, the larger motor and more power are nice but are the brakes, suspension, etc upgraded?

The car is going to be a winter daily driver, nothing special. I wouldn't mind a slow track car though (hence the thoughts for the RS).

Thanks,
Dope

if the RS is in good shape, then its worth about 4-5k more than the L. If u got an L, what u upgrade if anything? Compare that to whats on a gc/m6 and do the math.

most notably, the RS has the funkier front end and hood, larger motor, better brakes, darker interior with better seats, bigger rear sway bar and a sunroof.

Unless u are considering an eventual ej20t swap, an RS will last u forever. If its justa commuter car, the L will never give u problem if she is maintained.

Not really looking to do any upgrades. Most I would do is maybe a CAI, rear swaybar, and better wheels/tires. That's about it. Only reason I'm looking at the RSes is because I'm a bit spoiled on speed and I'd like something with decent power. I currently have a modded 2000 Camaro SS which I am selling for a Z06 (summer car). I junked my old winter car recently though because it was rusting itself to pieces, heh.

I'll probably get an L unless I get a good deal on an RS. There is a guy local to me selling a 99 RS 5spd with 80k miles for $8k, I might jump on that if I can get him down to 7k (pretty much the max I want to spend).

Anything I should look for? Common leaks? I heard the 98 DOHC 2.5's were headgasket eaters, but that's all I've heard so far.

Dope

$8k for an RS is a great price! Get that ish :p

Anyhow, if you dont get that, go for a more recent L if you dont plan on moding the car much. The 2.2l engine has gone through several power upages over the year, and I believe the most recent was ~144hp around 00-01 years, and back in 96 it had only ~135hp or so. But basically when you are looking for Impreza's in low price range like you are, dont hesitate or you could end up with a very long search for a car... There just are not that many used Impreza's under $8k on the market in good condition.

Originally posted by Dope
I'll probably get an L unless I get a good deal on an RS. There is a guy local to me selling a 99 RS 5spd with 80k miles for $8k, I might jump on that if I can get him down to 7k (pretty much the max I want to spend).

Anything I should look for? Common leaks? I heard the 98 DOHC 2.5's were headgasket eaters, but that's all I've heard so far.

Dope

Thats a good price ! Has the car been raced or beat on ?

Just a couple of things.

If you want to do the CAI go with a 98 or 00 RS. 99s have a problem with the MAF sensors blowing, they can't always handle the turbulence from after market intakes. Also listen for any rubbing noise from the rear end. My 99 has 50,000 miles and my bearings need to be replaced already.

Nothing wrong with an L.
Up to about '98 they had 135hp vs. the 165 of the RS. However, they are also substantially lighter, and feel pretty quick. Around 97-98 the 2.2 got a redesigned head and some better electronics and puts out about 143.
I made my own "CAI" for free. ;)
My wife's Suby (http://www.mongrelmotorsports.homestead.com/subaru.html)
You can easily make a 2.2RS. The 2.5 parts just bolt on. Only thing I haven't done yet is the rear discs, and that's because I haven't taken the time to get to the junkyard for the parts I need (Legacy Outbacks make good donors).
Everything I did to 'RS' our car was easy enough the home mechanic can pull it off. It runs great and I wouldn't be afraid to play with an RS on the track any more.

Unfortunately the 99 was sold the day after I called for $7k. Wouldn't have been too bad of a deal! I find a lot of dreamers asking 11-13k for their cars, unfortunately. And they're hard to come by.

I'm actually considering a 98 Camaro Z28 6spd for a winter car, I have tons of parts and in-depth knowledge of repairs and such. Plus 3 years winter driving experience with my 2000. I may not be a scooby owner after all :) If I could find the right RS I'd get it. $7k is about the max I'd spend though. There's a 99 L with 70k miles a bit north of me that I am driving up to see this weekend, if I can pick it up for 5-6k I might do it.

Thanks for the advice guys. It's good to know the differences. You'll be seeing more of me if I do find the right scoob ;)

Dope

Oh yeah, I forgot to add, how do these cars do in the 1/4? The 142hp Ls and the 165hp RSes? Seems they'd be in the 15s somewhere, maybe low 16s.

Dope

Buy an OBS. You should be able to find a decent one for $7k. You get a slightly higher suspension and the added room of a wagon. Grab some WRX wheels, WRX front brakes, a bigger rear swaybar and you should be good to go. You will be happy you didn't get the Camaro the first time you drive the Subaru in the snow.

JC

Originally posted by Dope
Oh yeah, I forgot to add, how do these cars do in the 1/4? The 142hp Ls and the 165hp RSes? Seems they'd be in the 15s somewhere, maybe low 16s.

Dope
Ya, 16's stock 15's with minor mods. Ive even seen an RS with just an intake and full exhaust do a 15.1. They can both get under 2 second 60' times though, which is the fun part :)

Originally posted by Kostamojen
Ya, 16's stock 15's with minor mods. Ive even seen an RS with just an intake and full exhaust do a 15.1. They can both get under 2 second 60' times though, which is the fun part :)

Best stock RS time I've seen is 15.2, 15.0 with an intake. They are out of the norm of course.

JC

The problem with the OBS is that I HATE how the wagons look :(

Dope