Greetings all,
I am feeling rather jolly so I am thinking about buying a new motor for myself.
Is there anyone out there that can give me experienced opinion between these two models. I am thinking of selling my 97 model for an STIv5. It would be 2nd hand so I am hoping to keep the cost under 20k. Can anyone tell me anything about the STI that I would notice over my 97 in the following areas:
1) Performance
2) Handling
3) Ride
4) Interior
5) Running costs
6) Servicing and waranty

Alternatively, if there is a web site with details about an STIv5 in the UK, that would be cool. Is there a definitive guide to the stiv on the net?

Thanking you in advance,
Cem


[This message has been edited by Blow Dog (edited 16-02-2000).]

 

BD,

Have you had a look at Steve Breen's website, if not try the link below:

 

Cem,
its the way to go - once you have tried one you will have to have it (I did!) - answers:

<I>1) Performance</I>
I had a UK '98 before - the difference is startling (much more than people would have you believe)
- bags more power throughout the range - particularly after I had SS bbox and downpipe fitted - now very scary.

<I>2) Handling</I>
hmmm not so hot, understeer up front and power oversteer if you boot it - too much right foot can lead to lurid tailslides
need better tyres and Anti Lift Kit to improve handling.

<I>3) Ride</I>
when I went from Uk 98 to sti 5 my girlfriend (6 months pregnant at the time) confirmed that the ride is better - doesn't thump into potholes like UK car - only if you stick with 16" wheels though

<I>4) Interior</I>
much nicer - all alcantara and has all the gizmos including proper climate control - same 10p sun visors though ;-)

<I>5) Running costs</I>
dreadful - 21 mpg and higher insurance premiums - tyre wear about the same

<I>6) Servicing and waranty</I>
servicing is dirt cheap at independent garages
less than half the cost of IM dealers - e.g. TWO 6000 mile services for £140 incl.
A warranty costs £250 ish per year from motor warranty direct - these last two are a very pleasant revelation after all the anti-grey scare stories - you can get back the extra insurance premium in what you save on servicing.

If you play your cards right you can get a car with 2000 km or less on it for £20k...
prices have hit rock bottom at the moment - bad if you are selling, good if you are buying!

example £18.5k buys an sti ver 5 with triple gauges, boost gauge, fog lamps and lots of other factory fit goodies - 13000 km on the clock and new wheels tyres - this is a 4dr in white - mail me if you want the importer's phone no: - based in NWest.

mailtoaul.webber@avecia.com

can try to answer other questions if you mail me directly.

cheers,

Paul

 

Ive gone from a 98MY to STI V to RB5 Prodrive and now MY00.

1) Performance : As Paul says you will notice a big difference if your 97 is std. In my experience the RB5 prodrive was as quick as the STI V upto 6000rpm and had better low down torque. If I'm right you already have a larger Turbo than 98MY cars onwards, so might not notice the lag the STI has compared to later cars. Some of the acceleration feeling is down to the shorter gearing. The shorter gearing shouldnt be a problem for most people, but I notice how much quieter the UK cars are on Motorway's compared to the STI. The STI has less soundproofing and the Ally bonnet.

2/3 Handling/ Ride - I like a lot of STI V owners dont seem to like the std setup and the std tyres that come on the car. A lot seem to upgrade the suspension. IMHO Far to harsh and a lot slower on B roads than a UK car. The RB5 has easily been the best for me, and that was only upgraded wheels and tyres. The steering rack is sharper on the STI which is nice. This area though is very personal, what one likes another doesnt. The performance is a little like that - some like less turbo lag and more low down torque, other like high end power.

Interior - The seats are nicer and you get climate, but thats still a design from the 70's, unlike climate on a BM or Audi. You might also like the switch for the folding mirrors. Something I miss driving round Chesham's mini dual carriageway.

5. Agree with Paul

6. Again agree with Paul, but I would still like to buy an STI serviced by an IM dealer. Most seem to and see a lot of STI's.

I would also agree with Paul that buying one below 20k is a bargin, and they are around. Pity the owners that bought brand new from Park Lane or Warrender etc. I would also say though that a 99UK car with PP/ downpipe and backbox is a great alternative.

Jonathan

 

Thanks a lot for the replies guys.
I think I really need to go for a ride in one, perhaps if anyone is going to Santa Pod or Donnington with one, then I shall jump in.
My MY97 has SS Downpipe and Backbox as it is, but i should still expect a 50bhp head start in the STI.
Most of my reasoning comes from its looks though, it looks awesome.
Thanks again guys,
Cem

 

Consider it a deal!

Cem

 

cem -
not on track on the 5th - but you are welcome to a lift round the 'village' in my car....might help to make your mind up ;-)

look out for S-Reg black sti v5 4dr with manchester subaru badges

cheers,

Paul W