Tim20

Hi,



I am currently looking at buying a scoobie, i will appologise now for my omplete lack of knowledge!



I have been into the VW scene for several year and currently drive a mk2 golf with a 2.8 V6 engine fitted (its stripped out etc).

The car is great fun but im now looking for something a little more practical but retain the performance im used to.


I have a budget of around £4000 - 4500 to spend and am looking for some advice.


I personally prefer the classic shape and would want the 2.0L turbo engine version. However ima ware there are lost of variants.



Basically i have a few Q's - if anyone can help to bring my knowledge up that would be great.


- For my budget can i afford a decent example?
- What are the pro's and cons of buying a Uk car vs. an import?
- When buying what are the key areas to look for (scoobie specific)
- Does anyone have any recomendations of medels etc.




Tim

GazTheHat

Subaru Imprezas for Sale

If it were me, i'd be lOOking at an early STi. If you have trouble with insurance, or prefer a more subtle drive (i doubt that from the stripped golf though), then you'll be lOOking at a late UK classic.

Tim20

I dont think my insurance should be too bad. Im 24 with 4 years NCB. My golf is classed as insurance group 18 and like you say im used to a non subtle drive.


Im looking for a car that retains good performance but offers some practicality.



A golf on split rims with a 2.8v6 and only 2 bucket seats, with a ride height nearly on the floor is a bit of a pain to use daily.


I know this will sound stupid what is the STi model?? - can you see my complete lack of knowledge coming through now?


Tim

lordretsudo

Well, that's lucky as you wouldn't get a newage for that kind of money anyhow

TBH, I think you're likely to be looking at a mid-late 90's car. Try to find something that doesn't look to have been too modified, and with lowish mileage, backed up by history. Have you had a look on Pistonheads? There are some good exmaples on there...

lordretsudo

Have a look here: Scoobypedia | Trusted knowledge for everything Subaru | SidcFaq / SIDC FAQ - lots of info on model variants, technical data, etc.

GazTheHat

Sorry mate, but that's crap! Some modded cars are better lOOked after than standard ones.

Just because it's modified does not mean it's in worse condition or has been thrashed!!

GazTheHat

OK.

Turbo2000 - UK Car
WRX - JDM Car
STi - JDM Car

With all 3 getting more power as you go down the scale. There are loads of different and special models as well. It is a minefield, but with a bit of research you'll know what you want and wont get swindled by misadvertising etc.

lordretsudo

That's a matter of opinion. I agree in principle - I've bought lightly modified cars in the past myself, but generally speaking I wouldn't buy a heavily modified car unless I knew its history. Buying something standard is safer, especially if you're new to the car...

GazTheHat

C'est possible.

But at the end of the day, service history and the like are important on any car.

Tim20

thanks guys the info is really specifically the link.


The imported versions seem to be good value for money - however are there implications on insurance and parts avaliability??



TIm

lordretsudo

IME, insurance has always been more expensive when I have got quotes for imports. Some people will doubtless say this isn't the case, but try it and see for yourself. Some 'mainstream' companies won't insure imports, and usually the younger you are, the less keen they are...

If you find a specific car you like and it's an import, try a specialist like Keith Michaels or A-Plan for a quote before you get too interested; that way it'll avoid disappointment if you go and see it first and fall in love!

I don't think you'll struggle for parts, but that's one of the arguments insurance companies use to justigy higher premiums for imports (parts more expensive, supposedly).

Tim20

I think getting insurance quote beofre buying is a good bit of advice.


Is there many risks from buying an imported car? IM guessing there is more oppertunity milage readings to be incorrect.


Also how the hell do you know if the car has been serviced etc - is it not all in Japanese?



Tim

dnc

Tim,
Someone on here will e able recommend a reputable importer or trader to buy from. Do not buy from anywhere that has 'Keighley' in the name unless you take someone who knows Subarus with you. There are good motors on here and piston heads.

Insurance is generally more costly on imports as they offer better performance. You will not have any trouble with parts as there are so many imports and specialist 'garages' here to cater for this.

Might need octane booster on an import or you can get it mapped for UK fuel.

Best advice might be to join your local owners club and ask for advice from fellow owners before taking the plunge - I'm sure there will be one near you.

Good luck

dnc

taffyboyo

I'd say forget about which model to narrow your search down, a well looked after lightly modded uk car would be a lot better buy than a sti thats been ragged and scrimped on servicing, on the other hand a mint near standard sti would be a better buy than a uk car with loads of crappy boy racer bits done to it

each car is so different its unbelievable, go and see a few and make sure you get the cleanest most looked after example, meet the owner and just see how it all feels, and when you see the right car/owner you will know,

if you find one and your not sure on anything just ask on here, and someone will put you on the right track with what questions etc to ask,

Taffy