Hi all, looking for some advice on buying an RB5. Currently the search function seems to be throwing a wobbly every time I use it so apologies for the repetition.

Basically I am looking at moving from a sporty coupe (Honda Integra Type R) to a more family orientated car which still excites. I’ve done a bit of research and the RB5 seems to have achieved glowing reps during its time (the P1 etc are outside my budget!). So for my questions:

 Is an RB5 without the WR kit the same as a standard Subaru apart from wheels and some trim detailing?
 Any particular faults to look out for?
 The car I am looking at is up for £13k with 25k miles on it (99 T-plate), is that a typical price for a dealer?
 Any other tips for Subaru ownership

P.S I can only apologise for the questions which have no doubt been asked countless times but until the search function and my PC get on I am forced to ask!

P.S.S Ignore the user name a father with a blank mind and a 4-year old son offering his idea!

Kevin

 

http://www.rb5oc.co.uk/

Might be worth a look.

 

Worth looking a these pages as they give the original spec :

http://www.iwoc.co.uk/rb5sukpr.html

http://www.iwoc.co.uk/impse.html

 

Not quite. The RB5 is built on the Japanese WRX spec bodyshell, which meanse fixed rear seat and slightly better lateral rigidity, which translates on the road to slightly better handling.

Same as with any Impreza. Best buys are bog standard cars with full dealer service history. On a '99 car, the timing belt should theoretically have already been replaced at the three yearly service, so make sure that's been done. Beyond that, check the clutch still has some meat on it, that the gearbox changes smoothly, and that there are no unpleasant sounding whines or whistles.

Sounds reasonable for an RB5 with that mileage, especially if it comes with a Subaru Proven warranty.

Probably best to ask this when you've got the car. First one is that they're much happier on Super Unleaded or Optimax than regular 95 RON. Beyond that, well, just have a good read here and you'll learn a lot.

Wouldn't worry about that. I'd love to say it was only a four year old who came up with my screen name. Still, suppose she does act like one a lot of the time!

 

Cheers guys for the feedback, I will visit the identified websites for further info.

 

Ghosty

Can you PM me on the e-mail address in my profile

Cheers
Grahame

 

Have a look at this and contact me if interested for my low mileage example

http://www.scoobynet.co.uk/bbs/thread.asp?threadid=251158