Trade in the old horse....

[Steve B]

The trusty old twin stick '87 GL Wagon is due for retirement (over 300,000 miles). I'd like to go with a 2002, 2003 or 2004 Outback (don't care for the Forester). My question to you guys is is there a significant difference or advantage from one year to another?

 

For example, '87 was the only year for the single point fuel injection. Had I known about the inherent drivability problems that came with the SPFI, I would have gone for an '88 instead with the multi-point FI.

 

I love the twin stick, and it has been great when using the car as a jeep, but alas I Know the newer models are more civilized, and the kids are getting bigger etc.. So here are some questions:

 

Any significant differences btween the 2002 2003 and 2004 models?

Manual or auto trans better?

Options to look for?

Options to stay away from?

Weak points?

 

Thanks guys, (and by the way) I plan on keeping the old horse for the jeep work.

 

Steve

[Legacy777]

Steve,

 

I don't think there's much difference between those models. I'm not sure how many forester owners there are on here, but in terms of the newer generation cars. They are definitely more civilized and what not.

 

If you don't get any further replies, you may want to check out the forester forum on http://forums.nasioc.com/forums I think edmonds may have a forester specific forum too.

[Suzam]

The years you mention are pretty much identical. Only differences would be model: Outback, Ltd., LL Bean or VDC. and maybe a cup holder move.

 

The only major change I can think of in this model style would be the brake size from the first year (MY00) which were too small.

[Capri]

Hi,

 

You don't actually mean trade in through the dealership? They will give you nothing for the car unless they jack up the price you pay for the new one. I'm not even sure who would pay anything for a car with so many miles privately.

 

Good luck!!!

 

P.S. - Regarding new Foresters, your like or dislike is a personal preference. Look at those people who buy the Honda Element with that square back. I wonder what the coefficient drag is on that SUV, lol!!! Okay, getting back to the Forester, I don't know about previous years since I was a Honda Accord Sedan driver, but I love my 2006 Forester. It has very good gas mileage and the pick up is great.

 

For this year, the Forester has 5 more horsepower than the Outback and starts at about $21,800. where the Outback starts at $24,000 and I'm not sure why there is such a big difference in price that makes it's more worthwhile.

 

Bye, Capri

[Gnuman]

Of course, if you keep it, like you said you were, then I'm certain that no one will give you any money for it. Is there a significant reason that you prefer the Outback to the Legacy? As far as I can see, the Outback is still a Legacy that has been lifted a few inches and given a few options extra. Can someone point to when, or if this has changed? The lower slung Legacy will handle a lot better on the road than the Outback, and since you are keeping the GL for offroad stuff. . .

 

In either the Outback or Legacy, any of those years are fine. I believe the 04 is the year they put out the Anaversary Edition, which gives you a nice set of features. As for tranny preference, I persoanlly prefer the manual, but it all depends on what you plan on doing with it.

[charlierh2]

If you can cut it look at the 05's now that the 06's are out. There IS a big difference between the 04's and 05's.