Subaru Impreza Saloon 2.0 WRX STi 4d (03) (2003/03) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Supercar performance and pace for a damn sight less so a bargain really.
Costs
6 month service intervals, 7.5k, gearbox oil every 1yr/15k miles, slightly more costly than a classic car, and 25mpg on a long run is about right (15-16 in town)
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On the road
Driving
Brilliant car, grips like anything and the A-DCCD works a treat (JDM car). Comes with quick rack steering though mine is the lightweight model, and the suspension is 10% harder again so can be interesting on very bumpy roads.
Performance
300+bhp from a 2ltr engine, outpaces E46 M3's with ease (standard map), great levels of grip from the Bridgestone RE070 tyres, though can be tricky on greasy surfaces (pretty good on wet roads though). Twin scroll turbo means little/no lag, 290lbs+ torque
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Living with it
Reliability
No problems so far (10k), battery faults on other STi's dont affect this car as the battery is a smaller heavier duty unit.
Image
Well, looks like a normal WRX, in which case they dont quite have the image of the STi, though it doesnt bother me one bit.
Comfort
Not designed for being comfortable really, the standard STi is better, this car is sparse, no electrics etc so not for everyone (Spec C), though it does look just like a WRX. Seats are standard and excellent, plus good absorption from suspension.
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Security and Service
Security
You need to add your own in most cases as its a JDM car, gives you the option of putting the best available on!
Service
Use an excellent garage, never had a problem with them, they are very courtious and even clean the car afterwards (plus very competetive prices), anyone in stockport should know who they are (begins with a P)
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Lost that flat four sound...... Gained a rally car sound, oh well, suppose its for the best :-) but much more torquer than the UK engine, even after the PPP! (1500rpm to 8k red line is the power band!!), no problems here, rock solid build (100 ron fuel)
Other
None, typical Subaru reliability, look after it and it looks after you.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes