Impreza wagon 2.5 RS vs. Outback Sport

[jchristopher]

Thanks everyone for your comments on the Impreza trunk space issue. Looks like I've got it narrowed down to this body type and I'll just go with a roof or hitch type rack to drag my bikes around.

 

So it looks like it's Impreza wagon vs. Outback Sport. From what I can gather (Subaru isn't real clear on this) it's the same drivetrain, etc., with the Outback version having:

some different look body panels and 2 tone paint

more ground clearance,

in-dash CD changer.

 

Since they seem to be within a couple hundred bucks, is there anything else I should be aware of that might sway me one way or the other? (Only huge thing I can think of is that the Impreza is available in the WRX turbo version, but not the Outback Sport)

 

Thanks!

[outback_97]

www.cars101.com is great for comparing models and difference in years too.

 

We opted for the TS (now called RS wagon) in '03 because we could get a new one for the price of an '02 OBS with 20k miles. Also, we prefer the single color (like the WRX has) over the two tone... the two tone seems very '90's to me, but that's what my OB looks like and maybe we just wanted something different. That's all personal preference.

 

In '05 there's probably even less difference than the "bugeye" models. Ours lacks disc brakes in the rear and previously lacked a map light, cargo area light, fog lights, and 16" alloys. All (except brakes) added for around $400 and some labor and shopping around. As far as the in dash cd changer, I've never been crazy about those, but to each his/her own. I think you'll want to upgrade the speakers at least if you care at all about sound quality. We did this too and even with the stock HU it's a big improvement. Writeups for the map light, speaker, and fog light install are available, just ask.

 

Unless you feel you need the "extra" ground clearance (which amounts to what, a cm or two plus a little more body roll probably?) go with whatever you prefer and can get a better deal on. I think you'll like either one very much

 

Steve

 

EDIT: Took my own advice and perused the cars101 site. It's .4 inches, or 1 cm of ground clearance. That's not much. Other than projector beam fog lights and a rear 12v outlet (and of course the different look) I didn't see much else that seemed important. I've used my rear 12v outlet in my OB about 3 times, so fog lights are the only thing IMO. And those can be added, all these cars are wired for various accessories even if they're not there.

[subeman90]

I got a banging deal on my OBS that I just bought. It is a Special edition package too which has an armrest ext., 6 disk with prem speakers and sub, rear wing, and special wheels. This is why I bought the OBS as opposed to an RS wagon. In the end I saved money and gained an inch of groung clearance. (big deal right)

 

Matt

[jchristopher]

I got a banging deal on my OBS that I just bought. It is a Special edition package too which has an armrest ext., 6 disk with prem speakers and sub, rear wing, and special wheels. This is why I bought the OBS as opposed to an RS wagon. In the end I saved money and gained an inch of groung clearance. (big deal right)

 

Matt

Matt, did you happen to also test drive the Impreza WRX model? Just wondering if the OBS seems underpowered as some have stated. I'm looking for something that's fun to drive (I'll never race it or anything like that) and have no interest in "speed tuning" the WRX. Does your OBS have enough "pep" for daily driving?

[Setright]

If you are looking for the most entertaining drive, then the standard version is the choice. The Outback ride height does not improve handling.

 

In terms of performance, go for the WRX if you budget allows for the added fuel and insurance costs.

[subeman90]

I drove a left over wrx wagon and I liked it but you need to rev the crap out of it in my opinion to get it to move well. I think it is a little too peaky for my tastes as an everyday car to go to work in. It also requires premium and gets worse gas mileage. I like to go fast but I don't have to do it right now (I'm not a 0-60 freak....I like running up to 80-90 and crusing there)

 

The wife hated the seats in the WRX ( I liked them but she said they were uncomfortable)

 

As for around town power...oh heck yeah it is fine. (I haven't really opened it up since it is still in break in period (550 miles))

 

I am also concerned about longevity of the car....I plan on owning this car for a very long time...

 

Lets not forget about price too....my 05 stickered at 20,070 and I got it for a few bucks under invoice and got a very good trade (on top of dealing from the below invoice price) on my 95 OBS. The 04 WRx was in the high 23's to low 24's and I couldn't get cheap financing on it because it was a leftover (I got 2.9 for 63 months on the 05)

 

You really need to drive one and you'll see the difference trust me. They both have strong points and both have weaknesses too.

 

Matt

[outback_97]

I'll throw in my $.02

 

The 2.5 in the Impreza has plenty of power for normal driving IMO. We have driven many miles with camping gear / luggage in the car at high altitudes from 5,000 to 10,000 feet, never felt like it was too weak. Around town it's just great. We have taken it on two 2500 mile road trips to Oregon / Northern Cal, and numerous treks through the mountains and deserts of MT, ID, UT, and AZ. It's been on pavement, gravel, dirt, sand (beach on the Oregon coast), snow, ice, and has been a great little car.

 

We paid around 17K for it brand new, at that time WRX's were 22K to 23K. No regrets getting the 2.5 N/A over the WRX. Actually the 2.5 is probably better around town since our car is a 4EAT (automatic). Only problem in over 15K miles so far was a bad radiator cap that was replaced for $15 or so.

 

Steve

[jchristopher]

Thanks for the info Steve! What you've described is exactly how we'll use the car.