Having lived with an RB5 (st'd, number 100) as a second car (to Mondeo V6) for the past 9 months I've decided to be practical (family + dog (big) etc.) and get one vehicle (as the RB5 spent too much time in the garage anyway).

I have to admit the RB5 made (would still make) the Mondeo feel mundane especially in terms of speed and handling (and the p/ex value for RB5 was pretty good!). I hope whoever buys it uses it far more than I!

In contrast the Mondeo was a much more comfortable car and coupled with c/control etc. MUCH more economical (In the Mondeo you can stick to 30mph limits in 5th and even go uphill in 5th).

However like Richard, I would definately recommend the Impreza to anyone who enjoys their driving.

I'm not leaving the Subaru ranks completely, however, as I have a Forester (UK) turbo S (arriving 01/03/00). I just couldn't do without the 'scoop' on the bonnet!.

By the way does the Forester engine (detuned Impreza) give more power with SUL etc.? (tongue in cheek).

Cheers,
Dieter

 

Dieter,

Sorry to hear that another RB5 is being sold on.

Are you getting the Prodrive Pack for the Forrester ?

 

Neil,
The engine power output is predominantly BHP (168 to 200) rather than torque so I suppose its effects are more apparent at higher revs. I'm also not sure wether this mod runs best with SUL so I'll give it a miss for now.

However, the 'RB5' wheels and brake pad upgrade (as 200kg heavier than Impreza) seems more sensible so I might pursue that.

Cheers,
Dieter