Topic: Modern Classics: Subaru WRX, 2002-2007

[Autos_Editor]

A great combination of power and practicality, the Subaru WRX and WRX STI offer powerful turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive and two body styles: sedan and hatchback.  "The WRX was cousin to Subaru's very successful World Rally Championship (WRC) model," points out author, Jeff Burry.

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[Mike]

Well, I am overly biased being a WRX owner, but I agree in the modern classic.  This car already has a cult following similar tothe EVO, SRT-4, etc.  There are many people who would never drive anything else ever again (I'm not quite there, I like to dabble in all things automotive  )

[D70]

Well, I am overly biased being a WRX owner, but I agree in the modern classic.  This car already has a cult following similar tothe EVO, SRT-4, etc.  There are many people who would never drive anything else ever again (I'm not quite there, I like to dabble in all things automotive  )

  I'm with you Mike, dabbling is great

I've driven several Subaru over the years both in N.Am and NZ great driver cars.

Variety is the spice of life

http://www.flickr.com/photos/d70w7/5121705511/

[lebowski]

+2 this car is not only a modern classic - but IMO the most iconic car of the 2000's.

[johngenx]

1996 and the introduction of the Outback was a major event for Subaru.  It gave them an identity that they had been missing, and created the "crossover" segment that is now very popular.  They changed things up again in 2002 when they brought the WRX to North America.  Subaru was finally clear of their "odd little car" reputation, now known for both AWD utility and performance.

I've toyed with the idea of buying an 04 or 05 WRX.  Prices have come down a lot, and the 2.0L, while lacks the grunt of the 2.5, has a ton of aftermarket mods available.

[JoBlow]

Torsonnial stiffness increased 100% wow the car was probably build on a pasta frame.  Piece of crap  anyway especially the engine.

[WRX_Pilot]

I drive an 02 World Rally Blue WRX Wagon... it is a dog under 2500-3000rpm, but the boost ramps up quick and slings you out fast after that!  C&D was able to wring 0-60 in 5.8 seconds... but you really gotta abuse it to get that.  And it's so easy to mod.  Currently I'm at the stock 227hp, but with a new downpipe and tune it bumps it up to 285hp/285tq.  That's next on my list   

[greengs]

Had a 2006 WRX and a 2010 WRX.  06 in my mind was more fun to drive.  The problem in my opinion is from 02 on they added a little more power here and there but handling in these cars hasn't improved much over the years.  Haven't driven the new 2011s yet so they may be better but I know my 2010 leaned in corners way too much stock and it understeered early even with summer oem tires. 

I think if I had an option to get one of these cars I'd go for the 06-07 STI.   

[aaronk]

Had a 2006 WRX and a 2010 WRX.  06 in my mind was more fun to drive.  The problem in my opinion is from 02 on they added a little more power here and there but handling in these cars hasn't improved much over the years.  Haven't driven the new 2011s yet so they may be better but I know my 2010 leaned in corners way too much stock and it understeered early even with summer oem tires. 

I think if I had an option to get one of these cars I'd go for the 06-07 STI.   

From what I hear (have never had the chance to drive one) you're right in that the 06-07 STI and even base WRX with the 2.5 were claimed to be some of the best. I think they tuned the '08-'10 versions more for comfort and it lost a bit of its edge, but that probably paid dividends to those using their Subie's for daily commutes. Apparently the new 2011 brings back some of that old character, the car is apparently harder-edged and sharper handling, all with that great new bodywork.