spark666

Just been looking on Auto trader and the price for a 53/04 plate Sti from a dealer seem to be around the 16.5k to 17k mark. Is this good with it being from a dealer? Its something that i have found rather impressive.

Both cars i have seen have low mileage too <25k

rms555

I am also looking to update my bugeye STi to blobeye STi and come up with these prices.
I am planning to hold on until the new models are released and hopefully prices may drop slightly again. Probably look seriously for a blobeye STi around April 06 and will aim for an 03/53 car for £14-£16K

spark666

There are quite a few that i have my eye on, hopefully these prices will be around in up to 2 months time!!

rms555

SPARK666------
In your PM you asked about Subaru costs etc etc--- This is my thoughts after 1 year of ownership (Others may disagree)

Running costs are expensive for petrol, i use optimax and use about £45-£50 a week thats about 300 miles a week (work and some weekend stuff).

If stuff breaks on these cars such as suspension, engine etc then its even worse. API are excellent for second hand bits and i have used them on occasions. Brake pads and discs are also not cheap always check these and tyres on the car you are looking at.

in the last yesr i have spent £1200 which includes 4 tyres, pads (Front) and rear suspension (Complete struts from API) and uprated drop links + interim service. Check the car doesnt 'bang' from the rear when you drive it---this could be top plates?

Insurance is not too bad for me (38 yrs old) £775 with all mods declared (ECU remap + Zorst) this was with Lifesure who specialise in Jap grey imports.

Also check the car has Cat 1 alarm and is undersealed if its a 'grey' Trackers are not essential for some insureres. Mine has the 'lot' for peice of mind. Learn to programme your alarm as well for different situations? You should get a PIN number and manual

At the end of the day its down to your driving style? 'Boot it' everywhere and 'rag' it around and stuff wears out or breaks quicker OR you crash? Like i say to people you gotta be headstrong mine develops 330bhp / 300nm and must be respected?(some may argue with this)

Buy from a dealer as well and if you want more value buy a 'grey' from a dealer (like i did) But request ALL documentation and dont get too exited about the car, theres always another? Also check it has been remapped (ECU) for UK Fuel (Get the evidence etc)

Some cars are not brilliant in the wet and can feel 'skitish' depends on the rubber--i run Potenzas all round (£120 each) Some tyres tend to wear on the inside quickly --this can be down to driving style or geometry set up. Request this be done before you buy (Castor/Camber). This could also be a trait of 4 wheel drive cars as well (Not sure though--tyre wear bit) Also when they do wear budget for 4 new tyres all round (20,000m life span, driven SENSIBLY)

Go for a new age car as well, so many people on here post stuff with problems about classics (no offensive intended to anyone)

ALSO buy a disclock steering lock and USE it (£80) again i have one of these and it goes on everytime i am away from the car even on my drive at night.

These cars do attract attention from kids and idiots on the road, but learn to be headstrong and ignore it and you will be ok?

Thats it really

PS ---best accessory for these cars = FULL wallet (on occassions that is) Its all down to your budget? Dont let the car break your back (financially)

PPS Also dont park or leave the car in stupid places IF you take up 2 places people may take offense? Best to leave it safe and walk that little bit further