ThE_MysterY_MachinE

HI guys & girls,

I'm new to the scooby scene and I need guidance in buying one.


I have a budget ot about 5K and was thinking about buying a jap import STi version 1 (L reg). But before I part with my hard earnt cash I think it's better to get advise from people who knows more about these cars than I do.


Q1: Shall I get an jap import ??? I heard that the UK spec on pre 97 are about 208 BHp??? but jap one's runs on 276 BHp.

Q2: Shall I get an STi or standard ???

Q3: Any pitfalls I should be carefull of or should look out for when getting a Scooby???

Q4: (out of the box question) which is the best scooby version to get ???


Thanks

ThE_Mystery_MachinE

Gear Head

iTrader: (2)

Check insurance before you even start looking at scoobs. Many companys won't insure under 23's on imports. Also, set aside atleast £100 per year for oil changes. (Do mine every 3K).
Sti's definatly offer more bang for your buck, but I think you will struggle to find a good one at 5K. A wrx with 240bhp is more realistic.

Keef69

It all depends on what you want from your car. If you want pure mind blowing acceleration, go for the STI. 4.5 secs 0-60 is fun! For £5k you should be able to get a version 2 MY96 N reg or even a version 3 (my version 3 was £5,500 last year). Don't get bogged down thinking about BHP either, a common mistake when you are first looking. I have 288 bhp as a standard car and have raced a few people with other versions, including an 04 WRX STI PPP at 320 BHP and a P1 at 340 BHP. I blew away both of them, due to less weight and gear ratios.


Next to decide is whether STI or STI type R/RA. My STI is a standard 4 door with elec windows, ABS, sound proofing and Air Con, all of which is not standard in the Type R or RA, although they will do 0-60 in 4.3 secs. So if you are not bothered about comfort and want that extra .2 secs to 60, go for the R/RA. It maybe be of interest to note, that the version 3 STI onwards has a stronger higher revving engine. A mate of mine has a version 1 MY95 STI RA, which is lighter than mine 1175kg, mine is 1250kg, but I still out accelerated him as a standard car and still do now, even with his full decat and remap.

Go to SIDC faq section 2 and read up on all the specs, click on all the links too and make your own mind up. Then, try and get a test drive in a straight WRX MY97 onwards, followed by any STI and feel the difference yourself!

You will hear people say a lot about engines blowing, don't panic, it nearly always happens when people are screaming the whatsits out of their car for long periods of time. Keep away from the redline and use Optimax and you'll be fine.

Good luck and whatever you get, you will love it.

ThE_MysterY_MachinE

cheers guys thanks for your help