seanks

Need a bit of guidance/advice/help.
After many months of searching, found a R-reg '98 WRX STI V4 wagon in blue (imported brand new in '98). FSH, 76k miles, only mods being Radius alloys and Scot & Hayward stainless (decat) exhaust. Very clean car, absoutely what I was after, all for £7K. Guy is a trader, usually shifts vans, but got this in a p/x?
Bought it about 10 days ago, as a precaution also had it serviced (last monday), local import place. Last Thursday, noticed a slight knocking noise, took it to a couple of Jap tuning specialist in Warrington, each diagnosed Big-ends going/gone. Quoted between £2k-£3.5k to get it done (reground crank or replacement crank). Talked to the dealer, without much arguement he said he'd give me my money back! But would not have it repaired. I've spent about £500 on service, tax, tracker sub, etc.
My options are:-
1. Give the car back to the dealer, and start looking for another (UK) Scoob.

2. Try to get the dealer to pay at least 50% repair bill, and keep the car knowing history and work done.

3. If no joy with the dealer, bite the bullet and pay for the repair myself in full.

4. Replacement engine fitted, still about £2k?

I'd appreciate any bits of advice, as I reckoned the car was under-priced at £7k (even for a wagon, maybe wrong), cheapest seen on the forums has been £8495. So if I spent the £2k, probably would break even?

thanks
Sean

(Dazed and Confused and pretty gutted!)

seanks

Well, it's going back Saturday.
If anyone spots an R-reg midnight blue WRX STI wagon they take a shine to. Drop me a PM or email and check with me about it.
cheers
Sean