Which Classic Impreza
 

Hi all.

I am returning to the Subaru fold after a 17 year absence and after a little advice.

Way back when/ i had an import WRX from Vine Place in Co. Durham. It was N reg so it was an early one in black and it was a great car and one that i have always regretted selling. Especially since the kid that i sold it too wrote it off 12 hours later!!

I have decided to get another as a weekend toy and i will be returning to a 'Classic' rather than a later model ........................ so the question is, what to go for?

Im not looking at outright power as such but i may dabble in an exhaust / filter / etc if they are not already fitted. I do prefer the look of the later Classics to be honest, but its not a deal breaker as i would buy on condition all day long now. Which Versions are the ones to look out for guys?

Budget is 5k

At that budget I'd go for another WRX. Clean UK Turbos are like needles in a haystack and the very best of them (later ones anyway) will be over £5k I'd imagine. An earlier STi could be in play at £5k but you might struggle.

How clean do you want it?

As clean an example as I can get.

I will take a clean straight example over a modified one all day. Bolt on enhancements are something that I enjoy doing but extensive bodywork is something I would rather not get involved with if possible.

Budget is "flexible"

I'm slightly biased but the JDM version 3/4 STi imports are the pinnacle of classics IMO - ej20k engine with 8250rpm rev limit, larger turbo (vf23 on the V3 Sti), 'tasteful' grey interior and you could probably source one for circa 5k if you don't mind something that needs a bit of tlc.

Worth noting the V3 STi has ABS but no airbags!

Interesting looking car. Just how 'raw' are we talking?

Lightest Impreza ever made, windy windows, gearbox ratios for sprinting (though this one's standard box isn't currently fitted) - think 4k @ 70mph, no airbags, probably no ABS (not sure)...

Sounds like a great car, but probably a bit too raw for me.

Now that is a nice example.