Which Impreza should I buy?

Hello Paul, I want to replace my Subaru Legacy 2001 with a turbo Subaru Impreza STI OR WRX 98-2000. Between 98,99, and 2000 models, which one would you recommend. Have Checked online dealers from Japan, but such cars are very expensive say CIF 5000. What is the price range of those from UK and what are the credible online UK Dealers? Where can I get performance and decorative products in Uganda, UK or Japan at genuine and low prices? Denis

Hello Denis, the original 1998 or pre 1998 Impreza WRX STI with a five-speed manual gearbox is the best if you are looking for a dose of adrenaline rush every weekend. History will prove that material and design updates in the subsequent 2000 WRX Sti produced a problematic more powerful ‘boggle eyed’ monster. The post 2000 Impreza WRX STI though bigger and more powerful does not really ‘bite’. They are not as tough as their predecessors and are more costly to repair. The 1998 WRX STI combines the light weight and compact fluid design with excellent grip courtesy of all wheel drive to guarantee good handling. The 1998 Impreza WRX delivers its 155KW of power promptly. Perhaps that explains the high speed crashes when some gear heads get carried away by the thrilling performance. The issues to look out for when buying the 98’ Impreza include potentially damaged engines which can be detected by looking out for extreme sludge buildup under the oil filler cap, very dark engine oil and a failure of the compression test (if buying locally).

Look out for signs of major accident repair on the seams and door /bonnet lines. A manual gearbox that struggles to shift and a clutch that shudders or slips will point to a damaged driveline. Prices in the UK for the 1998 Impreza WRX range from £.2,500 - 3,000 before shipping.
You can check out available options on autotrader.co.uk. Accessories and performance parts can be found on www.brilliantsave.co.uk. Be adventurous as long as you can make online visa card purchases.
Also, make friends among the local Subaru Impreza fraternity. The fan club and rally chasers are generous with information on how to get car replacement, parts and repair facilities locally.