...ENTERED THE DARK SIDE....sort of!

[chillicatqld]

Well guys - just got back from delivery of the missus's '06 WRX Hatch. :eek:

Just had my first drive in it - and wow! Nice package I gotta say...for a 4pot. Obviously driving sedately in it as it had 44klms on the clock when I got a chance in the hot seat - but man the turbo comes on beautifully delivering a very low down torque that is just great for round town crusing. Now I have never driven any WRX b4 - but apparently the 2.0litre turbo lacked alot down low, you really needed to load the turbo. But the new 2.5 turbo is awesome - cant wait till it gets a few more on the clock and into some windey stuff.
The test mule sedan (400klms on clock) that I drove really copped it - and man did it love it. I hate to admit it - but in the right hands, one of these bog stock feels like it would really give my VY SS Ute 230rwkw a real run for its money! :box:

Overall looks wise are quiet sharp - she ended up going with premium silver, and it looks the goods! She was gonna go black with gold rims - but backed out after thinking how long it takes to keep mine clean.

The garage looks pretty good now - 06 WRX and a VY SS Ute, and she really doesnt enjoy driving that much. I always drive when we go somewhere - so I am pretty stocked about that. Get to save some petrol in a silver WRX instead of a green Proton Satria :lol:

[Glenn@Autowerks]

A guy at work bought one of those over a clubbie, I just shook my head :confused: But he loves it :bash: Nice machine but I'll stick with the V8 sound :lol:

[Fezz]

If I didn't buy a VY SS, I would of got a WRX for sure.

A few mates have them, and they are great cars. Haven't had a chance to go in a 06' yet, but they certainly sound the goods.

Congrats on the purchase.


Cheers,
Matt

[chillicatqld]

Don't get me wrong dude - Im a V8 man thru and thru, got a VY SS as stated and a 73 HQ 253 sedan- but hey if one's there (WRX) to drive, you aint gonna see me not drivin it. And the handling - like wow - it really does feel like having four paws on the round.

[SmeeAgain]

I had a MY00 WRX, the last of the old shape and I traded it for my VX SS, what a ****ing mistake that was. The WRX's are a much better built car and is a much more exciting car to drive. Throw on a 3 inch exhaust and a decent air cleaner for under $1500 and you get a car that is more fun to drive than a commodore. If I wasn't going to lose soooo much money on my SS I would get rid of it and buy a new '06 WRX, instead I am going to trade the wife's 1 year old Honda civic and buy her a WRX.

[chillicatqld]

Best of both worlds then Smee. Got a ute and a wagon now - happy with that. Think I can see me doing lots more bushwalking (cough) in the hinterland!
Hers will be staying bog stock! except window tint (10% over legal) and she drives like a granny most times. Good buy for someone in about 4 years.

[Glenn@Autowerks]

Throw on a 3 inch exhaust and a decent air cleaner for under $1500 and you get a car that is more fun to drive than a commodore.
Hummmm, each to their own I suppose :confused:

[RedR8]

There is a lot to be said about the latest Subi's. They aren't too bad at all. I recently took a Liberty GT out for a test, and all I can say is WOW :eek: Despite it having only the 2.0l engine, it is slightly quicker (as per the specs) than the WRX. But I guess it's handling wouldn't be as good as it is the luxo model. It had some serious get up and go and really handled well for a 'family car' though. I wonder if the '06 GT will get the 2.5? :drool:

Lachy

EDIT - Hold the phone !!! There is a Liberty GT STi just released. Here (http://subaru.com.au/promotions/?promoid=246) 200Kw :drool:

[chillicatqld]

The GT I believe has a twin turbo 2 litre - and apparently goes real hard.

[RedR8]

The GT I believe has a twin turbo 2 litre - and apparently goes real hard.

Previous model to the GT was the B4 - it had the twins. Had a serious lag issue apparently and is why the went back to single. But when it gets up to speed. WHOA MUMMA !!! A friend has taken me for a spin

[WE OWN 2 GEN 3s]

My 200,000km VX SS s2 drives as tight as new
My mate's 100,000km last of the old shape WRX drives like a loose goose , bad wind noise from the windows
But you can't compare a full size car to a medium size car
My apprentice's dad just bought a 2002 WRX and the price he paid i would hate to of been the previous owner loosing all that $$$$

STU

[NickS]

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/5/web/2093000-2093999/2093316_27_full.jpg

This was my ride for about a year, before that I had an MY99 for almost 5 years.

Were they good cars - bloody oath
Did they go fast - hell yes
Faster than an LS1 - not in my opinion
Were they well built - ok, pretty cheap interior
Would I go back to one - nope

Loved the cars, great fun and great bang for buck, but they have nothing on a V8 (IMHO). The fact that we know have 2 kids probably has a lot to do with it also, having a one year old being able to kick the back of your seat gets a bit annoying. I think chillicatqld has it sorted, let the missus drive one, you can take it for a blast every now and then but you can stick with a V8 during the week ... enjoy :cheers:

[SV8VY]

Congrats on your purchase.
I have mates with rexies that race them around and with the quicker ones Im there and the standard ones I blow them away around the track.
For everyday use I prefer mine though as I love the room and the V8 sound.
Still there is a soft spot in the back of my mind as I know what the potential of these things are on the track.
Have fun and don't be afraid to give it some when new otherwise you will be stuck with a lemon.
Warm it up and warm it down also and don't forget to let it idle for 30 sec to a minute before you switch it off if giving it a hard time to lubricate the turbo.

[VYBerlinaV8]

The 06 WRX looks like a real ripper. Mate of mine has one of the very last 99 shape ones, owned from brand new. It's a ripper car, but for some reason vandals keep scratching it up (every panel on two occasions now). Although I have a lot of respect for the WRX type vehicle, I really love my V8, and don't think I'd swap over.

[PepeLePew]

Be interesting to drive one of these, as per above IMHO the 2L (as per the wifes MY05) is dead down low, its like an on/off tap once the turbo comes on song...if the newie answers that it'll be a helluva a car.

The interior looks pretty smart on the 05, not particularly cheap. The VY/VZ has similar look/feel/colours...not so different as it used to be.

[PLAYTM]

my dad just ordered the new gt liberty sti edition. The one that was at the motorshow... should be interesting arrives early january...

[SSFreak]

The 06 WRX looks like a real ripper. Mate of mine has one of the very last 99 shape ones, owned from brand new. It's a ripper car, but for some reason vandals keep scratching it up (every panel on two occasions now). Although I have a lot of respect for the WRX type vehicle, I really love my V8, and don't think I'd swap over.

There are some real low lifes in Canberra, aren't there? A friend of mine has had the same thing done to his Merc 3 times. He's getting sick of having it repainted.

[UterSS]

Well guys - just got back from delivery of the missus's '06 WRX Hatch. :eek:

Just had my first drive in it - and wow! Nice package I gotta say...for a 4pot. Obviously driving sedately in it as it had 44klms on the clock when I got a chance in the hot seat - but man the turbo comes on beautifully delivering a very low down torque that is just great for round town crusing. Now I have never driven any WRX b4 - but apparently the 2.0litre turbo lacked alot down low, you really needed to load the turbo. But the new 2.5 turbo is awesome - cant wait till it gets a few more on the clock and into some windey stuff.
The test mule sedan (400klms on clock) that I drove really copped it - and man did it love it. I hate to admit it - but in the right hands, one of these bog stock feels like it would really give my VY SS Ute 230rwkw a real run for its money! :box:

Overall looks wise are quiet sharp - she ended up going with premium silver, and it looks the goods! She was gonna go black with gold rims - but backed out after thinking how long it takes to keep mine clean.

The garage looks pretty good now - 06 WRX and a VY SS Ute, and she really doesnt enjoy driving that much. I always drive when we go somewhere - so I am pretty stocked about that. Get to save some petrol in a silver WRX instead of a green Proton Satria :lol:


I've just sold my ute and bought the MY06 WRX sedan and I regret (almost) every minute of it. Sure the WRX goes OK but it certainly doesn't go like a 224rwkw LS1. Handling wise the ute never suffered from understeer - ever, and the WRX does nothing but. Performance wise I like the launch abilities of the WRX but its all over by 60-70 Kmh if comparing to an LS1, also the wrx's sweet spot seems to be 3000-4000rpm, just where the LS1 is coming on strong. The wrx does have a nice turn of speed and the 2.5 is way better than the 2.0, but overall 3 weeks of ownership have been a little disapointing, even the fuel economy is only slightly better in the city (14 ute vs 12.8 wrx).

The 4 things I miss most are:
1. Really comfortable seats
2. The sound of an LS1
3. overtaking from 80Kmh in second gear
4. Cruising to canberra and getting 8.2 l/100k @115kmh (wrx 8.8l/100k)

[ROGUE]

Nice choice!

I went from a 255rwkw ute, to an 05 WRX Hatch. No regrets so far :)

And if you're unhappy about the understeer in your WRX, get a whiteline rear swar bar. Totally transforms the handling.

As for the 'lag' down low, that's easy fixed with ECUTEK, or UTEC, and a good tuner ;)

[UterSS]

Nice choice!

I went from a 255rwkw ute, to an 05 WRX Hatch. No regrets so far :)

And if you're unhappy about the understeer in your WRX, get a whiteline rear swar bar. Totally transforms the handling.

As for the 'lag' down low, that's easy fixed with ECUTEK, or UTEC, and a good tuner ;)

I have already sussed an MRT XB kit. Looks the goods, but this time around I'm going to do at least 20000k's before engine mods. The whiteline sounds like the first mod on my list though. No understeer is more important to me that some extra power, for the moment anyway...

[alexcs]

if (or when :)) i have enough money for two cars, its going to be either an sti or an evo9 going into the garage. id never give up a v8, the comfort level and all round fun cant be beat, but a tuned up evo or sti is incredible weekend/track fun.


edit: another tihng to remember with wrxes, they run very close gboxes and diffs compared to ls1's stock. my mates rex tops out at 45-50kmh in first, maybe 90-100 in second, and so on. even if you drop 4.11's into an ls1, youre still nowhere near 50kmh in first.

[DR GTR]

I've just sold my ute and bought the MY06 WRX sedan and I regret (almost) every minute of it. Sure the WRX goes OK but it certainly doesn't go like a 224rwkw LS1. Handling wise the ute never suffered from understeer - ever, and the WRX does nothing but. Performance wise I like the launch abilities of the WRX but its all over by 60-70 Kmh if comparing to an LS1, also the wrx's sweet spot seems to be 3000-4000rpm, just where the LS1 is coming on strong. The wrx does have a nice turn of speed and the 2.5 is way better than the 2.0, but overall 3 weeks of ownership have been a little disapointing, even the fuel economy is only slightly better in the city (14 ute vs 12.8 wrx).

The 4 things I miss most are:
1. Really comfortable seats
2. The sound of an LS1
3. overtaking from 80Kmh in second gear
4. Cruising to canberra and getting 8.2 l/100k @115kmh (wrx 8.8l/100k)


Try putting a decent 3 inch turbo back exhaust on like from hitech. They do wonders for the power output and low to midrange torque. Wind up the boost abit too when you put an ecutek ECU in and you watch the WRX fly.
Yeah understeer on the WRX doesnt help but the whiteline kit does do wonders. You would of been please with a STI more so. no understeer and alot more power and handling

[MIC33R]

There is a lot to be said about the latest Subi's. They aren't too bad at all. I recently took a Liberty GT out for a test, and all I can say is WOW :eek: Despite it having only the 2.0l engine, it is slightly quicker (as per the specs) than the WRX. But I guess it's handling wouldn't be as good as it is the luxo model. It had some serious get up and go and really handled well for a 'family car' though. I wonder if the '06 GT will get the 2.5? :drool:

Lachy

EDIT - Hold the phone !!! There is a Liberty GT STi just released. Here (http://subaru.com.au/promotions/?promoid=246) 200Kw :drool:

The Liberty GT is getting the 2.5 in about 8 months according to Go Auto.

[chillicatqld]

Well guys - was gonna update with photos this morning, but the missus wanted to go to the beach to get a tan first. No worries bout that - except the call I get about two hours later!!!!
She went to the trouble of starting to park like I do - (I have had my VYII SS since feb04 - won't park next to someone always parallel or go to the back of carpark) her friend thought she was mad. Got back to find a note on windscreen - Energex truck had reversed into the front of it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (how the F&*k do I do them flame things??) - but at least there was a note.
I couldnt believe it - thought she was joking. I had a bad feeling this morning and all - I thought she was gonna come home spewin about a door ding or somethin! NOT THIS!!!! - Mother F&*king blind son of a sweating hoarbag!
Well, anyway - taken it in to smash repairs. Its only cosmetic - he must have just been doing about 2 klms. Is gonna need a new bonnet - new bumper - and the smallest of tweaks to radiator support mount. (moved about 5 mm)
Could have been much worse I suppose and done mechanical/structural damage. But the thing has only got 167klms on the clock..... doah!!
And to top it off - the front badge was missin - I bet he is sitting at pub right now laughing about how he reversed into a two day old car in the Government vehicle - hope ya choke on it ya blind SOB :bash: :bash: :bash:

[snowySS]

But the thing has only got 167klms on the clock..... doah!!
:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: I could only begin to understand your anger :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

[UterSS]

I understand the anger too, two days ago work collegues report a gauge, some scratches and a dent on the front of the new Wrex. It took me about 2 hrs to go check thinking there was some p1ss taking going on.

I go out to check and there it was scratches, dent and gauge. No note on car or anything. And no burned carcass where god had struck them down with lightening either :mad:

[AndrewCowley]

There is a lot to be said about the latest Subi's. They aren't too bad at all. I recently took a Liberty GT out for a test, and all I can say is WOW :eek: Despite it having only the 2.0l engine, it is slightly quicker (as per the specs) than the WRX. But I guess it's handling wouldn't be as good as it is the luxo model. It had some serious get up and go and really handled well for a 'family car' though. I wonder if the '06 GT will get the 2.5? :drool:

Lachy

EDIT - Hold the phone !!! There is a Liberty GT STi just released. Here (http://subaru.com.au/promotions/?promoid=246) 200Kw :drool:

It is almost certain that the 06 GT will have the 2.5l turbo engine. The current 2.0l turbo engine is soon to be axed because it doesn't comply with emissions regulations. That is why Subaru Australia have released the GT STi. It is effectively a run-out model. After the 300 of these are sold there will be no GT until mid to late next year. Expect to see a new GT then with the 2.5l turbo engine in it.

[jaskel]

Ive owned a couple of WRX,s and i must say they are fast and nimble but you will get bored with it very quickly.....you just watch...ill revisit this post in a year and you will be so over the rex it wont be funny...or will it ;)

[chillicatqld]

Hey Jaskel - read the post - I got a VYSS ute in the garage also... so I am always gonna have a smile on my face :)

[HRT]

I've just sold my ute and bought the MY06 WRX sedan and I regret (almost) every minute of it. Sure the WRX goes OK but it certainly doesn't go like a 224rwkw LS1. Handling wise the ute never suffered from understeer - ever, and the WRX does nothing but. Performance wise I like the launch abilities of the WRX but its all over by 60-70 Kmh if comparing to an LS1, also the wrx's sweet spot seems to be 3000-4000rpm, just where the LS1 is coming on strong. The wrx does have a nice turn of speed and the 2.5 is way better than the 2.0, but overall 3 weeks of ownership have been a little disapointing, even the fuel economy is only slightly better in the city (14 ute vs 12.8 wrx).
Something is missing in this picture...
You make it sound like you never even drove the WRX before you laid down your pennies and signed the dotted line. If you are so disappointed with the WRX, why did you sell your ute to get one in the first place? :confused:

[Fezz]

Well guys - was gonna update with photos this morning, but the missus wanted to go to the beach to get a tan first. No worries bout that - except the call I get about two hours later!!!!
She went to the trouble of starting to park like I do - (I have had my VYII SS since feb04 - won't park next to someone always parallel or go to the back of carpark) her friend thought she was mad. Got back to find a note on windscreen - Energex truck had reversed into the front of it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (how the F&*k do I do them flame things??) - but at least there was a note.
I couldnt believe it - thought she was joking. I had a bad feeling this morning and all - I thought she was gonna come home spewin about a door ding or somethin! NOT THIS!!!! - Mother F&*king blind son of a sweating hoarbag!
Well, anyway - taken it in to smash repairs. Its only cosmetic - he must have just been doing about 2 klms. Is gonna need a new bonnet - new bumper - and the smallest of tweaks to radiator support mount. (moved about 5 mm)
Could have been much worse I suppose and done mechanical/structural damage. But the thing has only got 167klms on the clock..... doah!!
And to top it off - the front badge was missin - I bet he is sitting at pub right now laughing about how he reversed into a two day old car in the Government vehicle - hope ya choke on it ya blind SOB :bash: :bash: :bash:

That's seriously ****ed! :mad:

I'm also that paranoid about my car, I never park next to anyone to avoid dents, etc.

I'd hate to think how I'd feel if something like this happened to my car, even if it is only cosmetic.

The things we do for cars... :lol:

[IH8WRX]

Well guys - just got back from delivery of the missus's '06 WRX Hatch. :eek:

Just had my first drive in it - and wow! Nice package I gotta say...for a 4pot. Obviously driving sedately in it as it had 44klms on the clock when I got a chance in the hot seat - but man the turbo comes on beautifully delivering a very low down torque that is just great for round town crusing. Now I have never driven any WRX b4 - but apparently the 2.0litre turbo lacked alot down low, you really needed to load the turbo. But the new 2.5 turbo is awesome - cant wait till it gets a few more on the clock and into some windey stuff.
The test mule sedan (400klms on clock) that I drove really copped it - and man did it love it. I hate to admit it - but in the right hands, one of these bog stock feels like it would really give my VY SS Ute 230rwkw a real run for its money! :box:

Overall looks wise are quiet sharp - she ended up going with premium silver, and it looks the goods! She was gonna go black with gold rims - but backed out after thinking how long it takes to keep mine clean.

The garage looks pretty good now - 06 WRX and a VY SS Ute, and she really doesnt enjoy driving that much. I always drive when we go somewhere - so I am pretty stocked about that. Get to save some petrol in a silver WRX instead of a green Proton Satria :lol:


Boooo, hisssssssss trator :D I shall never speak to you again! Bloody hell have I taught you LS1 fellas nothing :lol:

Just remember when you bring the ute next week DON'T let your missus park in my driveway as I don't want my precious car getting WRX germs ewwwww :lol:

[chillicatqld]

That's why you gotta put some extra thick layers of Carnubra on my ute Rick - to stop any leaching when it is parked next to the WRX at night time...

[UterSS]

Something is missing in this picture...
You make it sound like you never even drove the WRX before you laid down your pennies and signed the dotted line. If you are so disappointed with the WRX, why did you sell your ute to get one in the first place? :confused:

Don't get me wrong HRT, I like the WRX and did drive both 2.0l and 2.5l before buying. The reason why I sold the ute was because I loved it so much I started driving it like I stole it and used over $200 in fuel each week. I wanted something that was sporty, relatively decent on fuel, good handling and good brakes and could fit 4 people in it. THe WRX certainly fits that. Upgrading to a new SS sedan was out of reach and wouldn't have solved the fuel problem. And I would of wanted to edit, exhaust etc. As time goes on I like the wrx even more, but is it as much fun as the Ute...no way!! I would even say the wrx is better than your Vectra... :lol:

[yella terra]

as much as WRX's are and will always be Jap Spec - u gotta love the limiter launches... get a few k's onboard and you'll know what i mean :D nice cars tho, mates gotta MY03, 3in turbo back, gives my stocker a run :( enjoy mate and get the zorst then MOTEC, mmm MOTEC :drool:

[UterSS]

I tried the limiter launches on the test car before buying...that's what demo cars are for. Apparently ecutek is the ducks guts for WRX ECU "editing". MRT do some good kits but I'll look at them in a year or two...or a few months :cool:

[HRT]

I would even say the wrx is better than your Vectra...
And what does my Vectra have to do with your whinge about how the WRX is not as fun to drive as your ute? :rolleyes:

If you persist, though, i must admit that the Vectra cannot be compared to the WRX performance wise. However, at least i know that in the event of a crash, i am in relatively safe hands... well safer than a WRX anyway, which when everytime you shut the door, feels like its going to fall apart. :lol:

[UterSS]

[QUOTE=HRT]And what does my Vectra have to do with your whinge about how the WRX is not as fun to drive as your ute? :rolleyes:

It was the sense of irony that I'm "UterSS" and now own a WRX and your "HRT" and your drive is a Vectra...your obviously not driving what you'd rather be driving either. And I'm not whinging about the WRX, its a great car. I was merely pointing out that sometimes you don't know what you've got til its gone. I test drove the WRX fairly hard and liked it. I miss some things that the WRX cannot provide, hence the list in my original post.

But by the tone of your posts I think I should have put in :box: or :bash:

Instead HRT, its Friday so :cheers:

[HRT]

It was the sense of irony that I'm "UterSS" and now own a WRX and your "HRT" and your drive is a Vectra...your obviously not driving what you'd rather be driving either.
You are right in that i do advocate the Holden Racing Team, however, this does not automatically mean that i want to drive something that fires eight cylinders. :)

For the price i paid for the Vectra, i could have parked my ass into a Commodore SS, or even gone the cheaper route and opted for an SV8.

Hopefully your WRX brings you more enjoyment after the break-in period. Who knows, maybe when APS release a kit for the MY06 you will have more. :)

[Vulture]

I think the WRX is a great car. I liked it way back when it was released - long before it was a favourite of the cap-backwards, doof-doof, bling brigade. That really is one of the main reasons why I would think twice about buying one at the moment: the associated chrome-wheel loving, flouro windscreen wiper wielding, exhaust tips you could put your head into, "fully sick" ricers who drive them now. It really is a victim of its own success in that way. I'd much rather be a knuckle-drag!
http://static.flickr.com/33/56827385_36d9c67dd2_o.jpg

[Glenn@Autowerks]

I liked it way back when it was released - long before it was a favourite of the cap-backwards, doof-doof, bling brigade.

Now thats funny :lol: :lol: :lol:

[UterSS]

I've already traded in the flanno and bought a shiny tracksuit from the back of Habib's charade. I'm just waiting for my mail order christmas lights to put underneath :cool:

[RedR8]

The Liberty GT is getting the 2.5 in about 8 months according to Go Auto.

MMMmmmmmm.....about time when I need to trade the missus' Vectra :D

Although after having to replace the battery in it yesterday, it may be sooner than 8 months. $165 later thank you very much. :mad: But the RACQ guy told me that it was about $50 cheaper tha what Holden charge. He did a bettery change in a Holden dealership carpark the other day (same car) because of the price difference between them and Spare Parts. :eek: Plus RACQ also gave a 2 year warranty.

[Danv8]

[QUOTE=Vulture]I think the WRX is a great car. I liked it way back when it was released - long before it was a favourite of the cap-backwards, doof-doof, bling brigade. That really is one of the main reasons why I would think twice about buying one at the moment: the associated chrome-wheel loving, flouro windscreen wiper wielding, exhaust tips you could put your head into, "fully sick" ricers who drive them now. It really is a victim of its own success in that way. I'd much rather be a knuckle-drag!


Likewise.
:)

[DR GTR]

And what does my Vectra have to do with your whinge about how the WRX is not as fun to drive as your ute? :rolleyes:

If you persist, though, i must admit that the Vectra cannot be compared to the WRX performance wise. However, at least i know that in the event of a crash, i am in relatively safe hands... well safer than a WRX anyway, which when everytime you shut the door, feels like its going to fall apart. :lol:


Your kidding right? Cause I doubt the quality of your vectra will ever compare to the SUbaru. Subarus quality is way better than your vectra.
"feels like its going to fall apart"? yeah right. I never seen any door just fall apart but i seen plenty of bad put together from factory vectras and astras.
DOnt believe me? I will be happy to give you my mates number who works as a workshop manager for heartland holden in Paramatta .

[Stocky]

The one thing that nobody has mentioned here is the interior size. Unfortunately Imprezas are built for Japanese size bodies.

My previous car was a Liberty. I wanted a WRX. Took one for a drive and was impressed. Nice to drive especially when thre demo car has an aftermarket exhaust. Also took a Forester XT for a drive.

I am 6'2": in the old money, with size 11 feet. Even less room here than in a Liberty. Have to drive with the shoes off otherwise you press the brake and accelerator at the same time. NOT safe !!! And no ADR requirement here either - absolutely zip zero zilch :bash: :mad: :bash: :mad: . Disgusting that legislators have put other requirements in before basic safety. They must all be short asses with small feet.

Now to cap it off my 14 year old son was the same height as me & feet size. With him in the back seat behind me & obviously I drive with the drivers seat all the back in a WRX or XT, he could not get out of the rear of the car. His feet were caught under the driver's seat.

No order - did not seem a good idea that I had to move the drivers seat forward for him to get out. In an emergency or accident this is not acceptable. [/repeat] No ADR requirement here either - absolutely zip zero zilch :bash: :mad: :bash: :mad: . Disgusting that legislators have put other requirements in before basic safety. They must all be short asses with small feet. [repeat/]

Now I feel better!!! :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

If you make a car for a big country at least make it so that people fit.

I am sure if crash test dummies were a size larger, many of the safety ratings would change.

I drive a friend's 2004 WRX occasionally & Heasman's in Sydney are the place to go for suspension fixes for understeer. I never knock back a drive of another car as it is always fun to compare different cars. The AWD system is bloody brilliant in slippery conditions & allows full throttle on corners where the SV8 cannot get power down. But that's the charm of RWD - fun!!!


Stocky

[Evil LS1]

A guy at work bought one of those over a clubbie, I just shook my head :confused: But he loves it :bash: Nice machine but I'll stick with the V8 sound :lol:


A sick Rex sounds almost as good as a V8; those boxer engines have an amazing note.

[HRT]

Your kidding right? Cause I doubt the quality of your vectra will ever compare to the SUbaru. Subarus quality is way better than your vectra.
"feels like its going to fall apart"? yeah right. I never seen any door just fall apart but i seen plenty of bad put together from factory vectras and astras.
DOnt believe me? I will be happy to give you my mates number who works as a workshop manager for heartland holden in Paramatta .
I never expressly stated that every Subaru vehicle is inferior in build quality, when compared to the ZC Vectra. I was specifically referring to the WRX, where i also stated the Vectra cannot be compared to it performance wise.

I have been in every iteration of the WRX since its conception, and they all feel like tin cans. I also never stated that i have seen a WRX door fall apart. It certainly feels that way, though whenever you shut it.

I acknowledge that the Liberty has excellent build quality. Despite the similar pillarless design (to the WRX) of the doors on the Liberty, they still feel much more solid than the WRX. The interior of the Liberty is way better than my Vectra. A Liberty 3.0R was actually on the cards when i was shopping for my new car, but Holden offered me a deal i couldn't resist on a new Vectra. Subaru wouldn't budge with their price, so i ended up with a Vectra.

[Danv8]

A sick Rex sounds almost as good as a V8; those boxer engines have an amazing note.

Indeed like a VW engine that has been injected with HRT (no not the Holden Racing Team) :)

[ROGUE]

The one thing that nobody has mentioned here is the interior size. Unfortunately Imprezas are built for Japanese size bodies.

My previous car was a Liberty. I wanted a WRX. Took one for a drive and was impressed. Nice to drive especially when thre demo car has an aftermarket exhaust. Also took a Forester XT for a drive.

I am 6'2": in the old money, with size 11 feet. Even less room here than in a Liberty. Have to drive with the shoes off otherwise you press the brake and accelerator at the same time. NOT safe !!! And no ADR requirement here either - absolutely zip zero zilch :bash: :mad: :bash: :mad: . Disgusting that legislators have put other requirements in before basic safety. They must all be short asses with small feet.

...

Stocky

Stocky, i'm 6'3", 110kg, have size 13 feet, and big shoulders. And i fit into my MY05 WRX Hatch just fine. Matter of fact, i've got MORE legroom than i had in my VYSSII uterus.

You're right about backseat room though. If i ever have kids (god forbid), once they get to about 12, they'll be too big for the backseat of a WRX...

[NinetySix]

ive been a passanger in a 98 wrx before and im not huge by any means, but my shoulders did not fit into the seats groove! my back basically was only touching the seat on the sides where it sticks out, not down the middle..

i assume its not quite such an issue on newer models tho

[DR GTR]

I never expressly stated that every Subaru vehicle is inferior in build quality, when compared to the ZC Vectra. I was specifically referring to the WRX, where i also stated the Vectra cannot be compared to it performance wise.

I have been in every iteration of the WRX since its conception, and they all feel like tin cans. I also never stated that i have seen a WRX door fall apart. It certainly feels that way, though whenever you shut it.

I acknowledge that the Liberty has excellent build quality. Despite the similar pillarless design (to the WRX) of the doors on the Liberty, they still feel much more solid than the WRX. The interior of the Liberty is way better than my Vectra. A Liberty 3.0R was actually on the cards when i was shopping for my new car, but Holden offered me a deal i couldn't resist on a new Vectra. Subaru wouldn't budge with their price, so i ended up with a Vectra.

No actually sorry. I should clarify abit better next time. The 2001 shape onwards have much better quality build and structural strength hence the extra weight while the classic shape from 1994 to 2000 are like tin cans. They are light and quick but yeah the structure rigidity leaves alot to be desired.

[UterSS]

I'm 6'2" with size 13's and find the clutch and foot rest are the main problem. Acc and brake haven't been a concern yet. Though without a doubt the worst for pedal closeness is the BA Falcon. I test drive an Xr8 a while back, then an Xr6T and though the auto was the only option. Test drove one and had the same problem, though not quite as bad. Couldn't believe that such a large car cold be so confined in the footwell. I had to check that I didn't have 7 toes or yeti feet...

Leg room is pretty good length wise in the WRX but it is mainly the seat cushion not being able to tilt like the SS ute that I find fatiguing, especially under my thighs. In the WRX my legs also sit on top of the bolster but in a wierd kind of way I find it comfy.

[Y2kGoofball]

we had a brand new WRX STI delivered to work 3 weeks ago (well it was temporarily delivered as it was being shipped to a Subaru dealership up the coast and they needed 1 truck to drop it off half way so another truck could pick it up and finish the job)

We had a quick fang in it, yep nice car but the pedals are too close.

[jaskel]

ive been a passanger in a 98 wrx before and im not huge by any means, but my shoulders did not fit into the seats groove! my back basically was only touching the seat on the sides where it sticks out, not down the middle..

i assume its not quite such an issue on newer models tho


Nope all the seats from 97 to current are the same shape and size. Ive had a 94,98, and 2 2002 models and they are all nice cars to drive but like i said before there is only so much fun you can have with them and you get very bored very quick ;) I am 6'2" and never had a problem with space and I didnt think the pedals wer too close, all the better for heel toe changes ;)

[ROGUE]

Nope all the seats from 97 to current are the same shape and size.

Incorrect.

I think you'll find the seats changed in the 03 i think, maybe the 04. I've got a couple of mates with the classic, and the bugeye, and the seats in those are way smaller than my 05.

I have trouble fitting into anything pre 05....

[jaskel]

well I dunno...if they have changed it is minimal, I am in a 05 every couple days and dont notice anything different

[Stocky]

Stocky, i'm 6'3", 110kg, have size 13 feet, and big shoulders. And i fit into my MY05 WRX Hatch just fine. Matter of fact, i've got MORE legroom than i had in my VYSSII uterus.

You're right about backseat room though. If i ever have kids (god forbid), once they get to about 12, they'll be too big for the backseat of a WRX...

Hi Rogue,
My friend who has a WRX does not have kids either - so not part of the decision process.

I am surprised that you have more legroom in the WRX. I have a sedan & not a ute, so I don't know the difference. In the sedan I cannot drive safely with the seat all the way back on it's rear most seating position, whereas in the WRX it has to be all the way back.

Do you have sufficient space in the footwell ? Can you drive safely with your shoes on ? With shoes on I occasionally get two pedals at once. I don't have seven toes either. It might only happen six times a year, but you always remember the event for a long time afterwards. Personally, I prefer to take my shoes off when I drive, moreso in a car with smaller footwell.

The pedal spacing [or pitch] in cars is something that is usually not reported by car magazine reviews & I for one could not buy a car without do a test drive. I would never buy a Proton on their sales channel decision of internet sales. I guess that is why they have failed in the Australian market.


Stocky

[Heli]

Dark Side? ;) I finally gave in after 10 years, and finally bought +1 a convertible last Saturday. Nearly as fast as the Grange, but quite different to drive.

Dare I admit that I like it? :D



http://www.helicopterservice.com.au/photos/Ski/Boxster%2004b.jpg

[Hubble80]

Stocky, i'm 6'3", 110kg, have size 13 feet, and big shoulders. And i fit into my MY05 WRX Hatch just fine. Matter of fact, i've got MORE legroom than i had in my VYSSII uterus.

You're right about backseat room though. If i ever have kids (god forbid), once they get to about 12, they'll be too big for the backseat of a WRX...

Rogue,

I am only slightly shorter than you and have found that WRX's with sunroof's are a little harder to sit in. The sunroof really takes up some headroom.

But I am in the same basket as Rogue. I had two LS1's before my Rex. The Rex is an awesome car to drive. Handle and are fairly quick too!

But unfortunately I have to sell the car for financial reasons. But I am pretty sure my next "TOY" car will be a V8 again. I just miss the noise and the "rough power" and being thrown back in the seat. AWD Rex just didn't do that for me. Don't get me wrong though, the Rex was as quick in a straight line as the VYII Maloo I had which some of you will remember.

Be sad to see it go, but a V8 will definatley be next, made even with some forced induction!!!