I have been in the market for an older model Impreza/Legacy for the past month or so. I am swaying towards the 2.5rs coupe because it's a bit sportier than the Legacy. At this time I really don't need a larger car because I'm only going to grad school and have no plans to start a family any time soon. So I found a pair of 2.5's for sale at the Subaru dealership.

IMPREZA 2.5RS -- NUMBER 1
1999 Aspen White - 114K miles - $7,900 asking price


IMPREZA 2.5RS -- NUMBER 2
1999 Black - 47K miles - $10,900 asking price


Now assuming that these cars are being sold at the dealership, I'm sure both are in good condition and have no frame damage. I have a feeling that the white 2.5 would have already had the head gasket and motor work done because of it's already high mileage.

My only concern is reliability. I don't plan to modify anything other than minor suspension upgrades if even that. Assuming that the HG issues work will be taken care of on both cars, do you think the white would be a better value than the black? If I buy the white and maintain it very well, do you think I'll have any problems with the longevity of the motor? I know the EJ motors are very durable when taken care of (I've heard of some responsibly suby owners getting at least 200K miles out of their cars).

If any of you seasoned 2.5 owners have any advice, please chime in. I know there'll be little things to fix with the black one but that'll be fine if I can save $3 grand and get a car that's just as reliable. TIA!

Tony

p.s. I'd prefer the white over black based on color preference. :D

TIP...get the 00-01RS so you can have fun with the rear diff.

The 99RS you can't do much with after market intake because the map/maf sensor is teh suck

Cobbs 99 CAI works just fine

Thanks for the info on the rear diff. I'm pretty sure I won't be modifying any of the engine components....maybe an STi exhaust or something but I want to try and get the most smog legal feul economy possibly.

Bump!

if you get the car with less mileage, you will have to replace the HG's more than likely, if you buy the cheaper one, you saved $3,000 for when the HG's DO blow on that car, and then you can get all sorts of crazy ideas from MAtt Monson about EJ25/EJ22 hybrid bada$$es, ...............or turbo....................



~Josh~

Do CARFAX on both, see if there is something in the cars past. 47k miles for 10.9 is a good price. I'd still haggle though.

If there is frame damage, the dealer may not know of it. I bought a lease return once, and it had repairs the front subframe.