2004 to 2009 Subaru WRX STI
The Draw: The draw to the Subaru WRX STI is easy: it’s a rally car you can drive to work, to the store, or to coffee with your friends. The turbocharged boxer engine with over 290 horsepower drew owners in, and the boy-racer looks and roller-coaster handling helped seal the deal. Add in the standard AWD system and instant recognition from your local tuner community, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind sports-car.
The Checks: Finding a used STI that isn’t modified will be difficult. Be sure all upgrades are of high quality, both in terms of the parts and installation. Avoid models with non-factory engine internals, turbocharger components or electronics modifications unless you’re very familiar with Subaru engine tuning. Be sure the engine is cold before you start your test-drive, in case the seller pre-warmed it to conceal an unwelcomed sound or smoking issue.
When driving, note that any hesitation or sputtering from the engine could be caused by a bad sensor or worn out turbocharger. Note that frequent, high-quality oil changes are important for long turbocharger life. A compression check, which can help determine the health of the engine, is strongly advised, since some STI owners have reported broken ring-lands on their pistons, which will be very pricey to repair.
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| Photo: Subaru |
The Draw: The draw to the Subaru WRX STI is easy: it’s a rally car you can drive to work, to the store, or to coffee with your friends. The turbocharged boxer engine with over 290 horsepower drew owners in, and the boy-racer looks and roller-coaster handling helped seal the deal. Add in the standard AWD system and instant recognition from your local tuner community, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind sports-car.
The Checks: Finding a used STI that isn’t modified will be difficult. Be sure all upgrades are of high quality, both in terms of the parts and installation. Avoid models with non-factory engine internals, turbocharger components or electronics modifications unless you’re very familiar with Subaru engine tuning. Be sure the engine is cold before you start your test-drive, in case the seller pre-warmed it to conceal an unwelcomed sound or smoking issue.
When driving, note that any hesitation or sputtering from the engine could be caused by a bad sensor or worn out turbocharger. Note that frequent, high-quality oil changes are important for long turbocharger life. A compression check, which can help determine the health of the engine, is strongly advised, since some STI owners have reported broken ring-lands on their pistons, which will be very pricey to repair.
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| Photo: Subaru |