Why do officially imported UK 2000 turbo cars continue to sell when you can buy un-official WRX models with a lot more power for little extra?

And on the same note - why buy the horrifically over-priced "Prodrive" models, like the RB5 when that too has less power than the WRX models.

 

Several reasons spring to mind
1. Dealer support (IM will not allow servicing of non-European cars)
2. Company cars (many companies will not allow greays)
3. Warranty (3 yr manufacturer vs. insurance based warranties)
4. Power (not everone wants more. Although I find this hard to believe )
5. Insurance (yawn, imports more expensive)
6. The bright switch

Mind you none of that convinced me When I was looking a 3 yr old STi II was the same price as a 3 yr old UK car. No choice really. STi for me

 

Yeah fair point about IM - although I think eventually they will be forced to change their attitude. I understand European law makes it illegal to refuse to service a product made by the same manufacturer?

On the power front - I guess this is the main reason for buying a turbo, certainly not buying one for the interior!

Are the WRX's as reliable? For instance how much life has a WRX got left in it with say 60K miles notched up?

 

That European law only applies to cars bought within the EU. Therefore it'll never apply to Japanese source cars.

Some car magazines have in fact reported the UK model to be a more rounded car compared to the WRX.

This argument can (and has) run on and on ... have a search around in the archives of the BBS for many more pros and cons!

At the end of the day it comes down to what you feel most comfortable with.

Andrew.

 

In my case one really big reason. There is a Subaru agent about 3 miles down the road. I would have have to find a specialist which are few and far between where I live. It would be a least 90 miles round trip which causes a problem if the car needs fixing or servicing. With my Subaru assist cover, no problem in the event of a breakdown or servicing.

Also 'grey' prices may increase due to the new SVA test.

If you have a specialist on your doorstep, can get a decent insurance quote (not always easy on a UK spec one ) and a good comprehensive warranty then go for it , I probably would.


Cheers

Chrisp

 

Always a funny point this Main agent servicing - most of the chaps working at main agents couldn't care less.

They have an allocated time for a job - which if they do the job quicker earns them a bonus. Nice - really promotes quality that!

 

My reasons would be:

1. £4000 to £5000 for an extra 30bhp seems rather a lot. How does the extra power translate on the road?

2. Not having to worry about the engine going bang due to fuelling problems.

Regards
IanF

 

It all depends on what year you are buying, If you buy used then they can be about the same price, but on an import you get more power, climate control as standard, rather than A/C, folding wing mirrors , alcantara seat facings on STi's and a bigger wing plus some colour coding (door handles + mirrors at least) map reading lights (I'm scraping the bottom of the barrel here) Up rated suspension on STI's, better diffs on STi's and don't forget the I/C water spray

Paul
(busy arguing both sides)