thinking of buying one. don't really want to spend over 8 grand. would prefer to buy a uk spec one. any ideas what model would be the best one to go for. thanks a lot

 

The Justy's are nice, you will pick up a nice one for £8000.

 

U could probobly get a uk turbo for abt that with high mileage.

 

www.autotrader.co.uk

 

You could have this one and have money left for the insurance!

http://www.scoobynet.co.uk/bbs/threa...hreadID=250963

 

First of all, for 8k, you will get a classic shape, that's for sure.

How old are you? Insurance could be one of the deciding issues.
Japanese import (WRX or STI) are classed as Group 20 insurance, yet the UK model is Group17. Trying to insure a group 20 as a youngster is pretty steep, so be prepared if you are going to go for an import (besides, not many companies insure under 30 for the imports. Have a look in the insurance forum) for further details.

Also, unless it's been remapped to suit UK fuel, an import will have to be ran on Super Unleaded(97 RON) or Shell Optimax(98 RON) plus octain booster, as Japanese have a lot better quality fuel (100+ RON), or there will be knocking, and potentially blow your engine up in seconds.

Performance of the STI models are quite staggering compared to UK model, but I don't think there's much in it between a WRX and UK Model.

If it's your first real performance car, I would be quite happy with a UK model (I know I am). It's still blisteringly quick compared to most cars on the road, and it's cheaper to run or to insure.

Good luck with your first purchase!