Looking to buy a WRX Wagon
03-19-2003 | 07:20 AM
#1
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Looking to buy a WRX Wagon
I currently have a BMW 330Ci, which has been fun and all. But since I'm getting married, and we have a dog, it's going to be really impractical. Not to mention, BMW maintenance is not cheap, and is a pain. Especially since their electronics have proven to be less than reliable.
Thus, I am most likely going to trade up for a 2004 WRX wagon.
A few questions:
1. Is the short shifter worth it? Any noticeable improvements from the standard shifter?
2. Do most people bother with the 17" rim upgrades offered from the factory?
3. Is the rear spoiler included, and if not, how much extra?
4. Even though I do like the car for its sportiness, I also need something that is good for long family drives (I'm getting married soon). Is the WRX wagon comfortable enough for driving longer than a few hours?
5. How much below MSRP should I expect to pay?
Thanks in advance!
Thus, I am most likely going to trade up for a 2004 WRX wagon.
A few questions:
1. Is the short shifter worth it? Any noticeable improvements from the standard shifter?
2. Do most people bother with the 17" rim upgrades offered from the factory?
3. Is the rear spoiler included, and if not, how much extra?
4. Even though I do like the car for its sportiness, I also need something that is good for long family drives (I'm getting married soon). Is the WRX wagon comfortable enough for driving longer than a few hours?
5. How much below MSRP should I expect to pay?
Thanks in advance!
03-19-2003 | 07:35 AM
#3
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I think the stock WRX Sportwagon is awesome bone-stock.
Changing to larger wheels, etc. only compromises the ride.
Again, stock this car is my idea of the perfect balance of high performance, practicality and comfort.
The stock shifter feels fine.
Spoiler is stock.
We paid $250 over invoice in 2002 Approx. 24k out the door.
Changing to larger wheels, etc. only compromises the ride.
Again, stock this car is my idea of the perfect balance of high performance, practicality and comfort.
The stock shifter feels fine.
Spoiler is stock.
We paid $250 over invoice in 2002 Approx. 24k out the door.
03-19-2003 | 08:36 AM
#4
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Originally posted by shamr0ck
your name is kinda like my real name.
actually, shamster is my nick:d
your name is kinda like my real name.
actually, shamster is my nick:d
Thanks for the suggestions.
Another question. Do people generally find the factory performance parts (suspension, exhaust, etc) worth it? Do they really make a big difference in performance, or will you have to go aftermarket to really get improvements?
Last edited by shamster; 03-19-2003 at 08:39 AM.
03-19-2003 | 08:48 AM
#5
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I may be in the minority here, but as I said before, why mess with something that's not messed up to begin with?
0-60 in 5.8 sec. too slow?
My opinion is that ANYTHING you do going from stock is going to compromise something else that's great to begin with.
0-60 in 5.8 sec. too slow?
My opinion is that ANYTHING you do going from stock is going to compromise something else that's great to begin with.
03-19-2003 | 09:44 AM
#6
Registered User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,402
From: Bay Area
Car Info: 02 WRX wagon=dead; rollin' in a Craptastic Camry!
1. Short Shifter - I had it installed on my car, but would probably not do it now. It is not a terribly noticable difference and from what I've read the Kartboy kit is cheaper and provides a better feel. I drove my car for a little over a month without the short throw because parts were not available, and when I picked it up I actually went to another WRX on the lot to see if there was a difference! With the factory kit, the throws are only slightly shorter, but a bit notchier and more positive.
2. I'd look after market for 17" rims. I was planning on buying 17's as summer rims and keeping the stockers for winter (Tahoe trips), but instead bought a second set of OEM 16's for $250. The improvement of decent summer tires over the stock all seasons, even in stock size, is dramatic. Depending on your finances and driving desires, I'd consider that option. 17's definitely look better and will give a stiffer ride.
3. Rear spoiler is included.
4. I find the car very comfortable. The interior is going to be more spartan than the BMW and likely a little less comfortable on really long drives. However, I have found the car to be quite comfortable and accomodating on many trips to Tahoe (3.5-7 hours depending on traffic and weather).
5. I have no idea, I got one of the first ones in March 2001 and paid 2% over invoice. I'd think you could get a great deal on an '03 since the '04's will be on lots any day, if they aren't already.
Factory performance parts: The muffler sounds great, but is very expensive. I don't think you are going to get any noticeable performance gains. I have read really great things about the factory suspension upgrade, but I kind of agree with Maury, the stock suspension is an excellent "jack of all trades". I have upgraded the rear sway bar from 17mm to 20mm (I bought a bar off of a sedan owner who upgraded to an adjustable rear bar). The car has a lot of body roll and if you compare it to a "real" sports car it is very soft, and will likely feel a little looser than the 330ci. OTH, I have no fear of going over speed bumps or entering steep parking lots. Fire roads are no problem and even though there is a little body roll, the car settles nicely and predictably on mountain corners.
2. I'd look after market for 17" rims. I was planning on buying 17's as summer rims and keeping the stockers for winter (Tahoe trips), but instead bought a second set of OEM 16's for $250. The improvement of decent summer tires over the stock all seasons, even in stock size, is dramatic. Depending on your finances and driving desires, I'd consider that option. 17's definitely look better and will give a stiffer ride.
3. Rear spoiler is included.
4. I find the car very comfortable. The interior is going to be more spartan than the BMW and likely a little less comfortable on really long drives. However, I have found the car to be quite comfortable and accomodating on many trips to Tahoe (3.5-7 hours depending on traffic and weather).
5. I have no idea, I got one of the first ones in March 2001 and paid 2% over invoice. I'd think you could get a great deal on an '03 since the '04's will be on lots any day, if they aren't already.
Factory performance parts: The muffler sounds great, but is very expensive. I don't think you are going to get any noticeable performance gains. I have read really great things about the factory suspension upgrade, but I kind of agree with Maury, the stock suspension is an excellent "jack of all trades". I have upgraded the rear sway bar from 17mm to 20mm (I bought a bar off of a sedan owner who upgraded to an adjustable rear bar). The car has a lot of body roll and if you compare it to a "real" sports car it is very soft, and will likely feel a little looser than the 330ci. OTH, I have no fear of going over speed bumps or entering steep parking lots. Fire roads are no problem and even though there is a little body roll, the car settles nicely and predictably on mountain corners.
03-19-2003 | 10:23 AM
#7
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Thanks for all the tips so far!
Actually, my 330Ci is pretty uncomfortable. The seats can be tiring to sit on for long drives for some reason. Maybe cause of the still leather, and the positioning. Also, my car is pretty stiff. Sports suspension makes it feel brutal on bumps.
I guess I'm not into aggressive performance driving as much now. A good overall balanced car that can grip the road and has good acceleration will do the job for me.
Actually, my 330Ci is pretty uncomfortable. The seats can be tiring to sit on for long drives for some reason. Maybe cause of the still leather, and the positioning. Also, my car is pretty stiff. Sports suspension makes it feel brutal on bumps.
I guess I'm not into aggressive performance driving as much now. A good overall balanced car that can grip the road and has good acceleration will do the job for me.
03-19-2003 | 11:05 AM
#8
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Keep the Bimmer!
I have an E46 BMW 323i and a WRX wagon. Every time I take the WRX on long trips, I wish I were in the BMW. The BMW handles better, tracks better, has better seats, is MUCH quieter, and rides much more smoothly (although I have the standard suspension, not the sport setup like on your coupe). The WRX's power is nice, but even my lethargic BMW can easily maintain 100 MPH on the highway and keep up with the most insane drivers. I am sad every time I go from my 323i to my WRX, so I can only imagine how much of a disappointment it would be going from a 330ci to a WRX.
People here will call this blasphemy, but I recommend a 325i without the sport suspension given your needs. It comes with 3 years free maintenance and they are offering amazing deals right now. If you're not into the raw power of the WRX, I don't see the point compared to the BMW. Incidentally, I have had my WRX back to the dealer half a dozen times for everything from check engine lights (3 times and counting) to no reverse (rebuilt trans). The BMW has been problem-free.
Mike D.
People here will call this blasphemy, but I recommend a 325i without the sport suspension given your needs. It comes with 3 years free maintenance and they are offering amazing deals right now. If you're not into the raw power of the WRX, I don't see the point compared to the BMW. Incidentally, I have had my WRX back to the dealer half a dozen times for everything from check engine lights (3 times and counting) to no reverse (rebuilt trans). The BMW has been problem-free.
Mike D.
03-19-2003 | 02:29 PM
#9
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Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,402
From: Bay Area
Car Info: 02 WRX wagon=dead; rollin' in a Craptastic Camry!
Re: Looking to buy a WRX Wagon
Originally posted by shamster
BMW maintenance is not cheap, and is a pain. Especially since their electronics have proven to be less than reliable.
BMW maintenance is not cheap, and is a pain. Especially since their electronics have proven to be less than reliable.
Definitely drive both cars, though. Comfort is such a subjective thing, and the torque curve of the 3.0 straight six you have is going to be much fatter than the turbo H4. Both the 3 series wagons and Audi A4/6 Avants are sweet cars that would prove more practical with your dog and new lifestyle...for me the most important thing was a fun car with awd, hence the previous ix.
Happy shopping!
03-19-2003 | 04:56 PM
#10
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 4,568
From: Rockland County...NY
Car Info: want a WRX
I think it would be better to go with a Kartboy short shifter instead of the factory upgrade. The wheels are not worth $3000 and you will be able to find the samething on bbs.com for much lessn (I think). The spoiler is not extra and you should definately test drive it and see how it feels with different options. If you are looking to buy a '04 you probably could get it for $24,000 with no options, but if I were you, I would ask somebody who has recently purchased a wagon and lives nearby. I have heard that the $800 suspesion is not worth the money. If you were to drive the car with and without the upgrade, you would probably prefer the stock suspension because it is much better going over bumps.
GOOD LUCK!
Have they changed the font on the website?
GOOD LUCK!
Have they changed the font on the website?
03-20-2003 | 11:53 AM
#11
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The problem is, BMW doesn't build cars like they used to. My 330Ci, even though it has been fun to drive, has also given me lots of headaches. Multiple electronic sensor problems, sunroof rattle, passenger door lock stuck sometimes, etc. Quite frankly, I've had enough. This year's consumer reports has stopped recommending the 3 series as well, due to their electronics reliability issues.
The 36k/3 year warranty is nothing. I've used it up already. I'm already starting to cringe at the thought of how much I have to pay for all the services I'll need. Not to mention, I'm sure other things will break prematurely too.
The problem with BMWs, and many German cars, is that they use proprietary computerized systems. When certain things go wrong, only the dealer can diagnose and fix it. And we all know how much dealers charge for their servicing.
I think the WRX wagon has a good balance of everything I'm looking for. Fun to drive, good all weather mobility, reliable, low maintenance, roomier on the inside, etc.
The 36k/3 year warranty is nothing. I've used it up already. I'm already starting to cringe at the thought of how much I have to pay for all the services I'll need. Not to mention, I'm sure other things will break prematurely too.
The problem with BMWs, and many German cars, is that they use proprietary computerized systems. When certain things go wrong, only the dealer can diagnose and fix it. And we all know how much dealers charge for their servicing.
I think the WRX wagon has a good balance of everything I'm looking for. Fun to drive, good all weather mobility, reliable, low maintenance, roomier on the inside, etc.
03-20-2003 | 01:12 PM
#12
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i sold my 2001 330i with sport package to get a WRX wagon, mainly because my big dog didnt like the rear seat of the beemer....with about 6k miles now on my rex wagon i can tell you it is a great car, comfort-wise, economy-wise, performance-wise....and it was dirt cheap, looks great but most importantly, my dog absolutely loves it, the rear seats have been folded down since day one and have never been up, thats his area!
skip the factory 17" wheel option, its a rip off (looks cool but way over-priced). if you have that dog, be sure to get the rear bumper protector (its a rubber piece attached to top of rear bumper to prevent scratches from dogs, etc, as they exit the rear hatch).
skip the factory 17" wheel option, its a rip off (looks cool but way over-priced). if you have that dog, be sure to get the rear bumper protector (its a rubber piece attached to top of rear bumper to prevent scratches from dogs, etc, as they exit the rear hatch).
03-21-2003 | 09:22 PM
#13
Registered User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 28
From: Chatsworth, CA
I've owned my WRX wagon for 3 months and absolutely love it. My folks each have newer 3 series BMWs and although they are plush and have a better fit and finish, I feel the WRX was my best choice for the money. I needed AWD and more room than a sedan so it was a no-brainer for me. Good luck!
03-23-2003 | 04:56 AM
#14
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I now have an 03 WRX Wagon. Prior to the WRX I had a 1995 BMW 318ti. I had H&R springs, Bilstein Sport shocks, Downing Atlanta supercharger (200hp), exhaust.... etc.
While I am very pleased with the WRX I don't have the same emotional attachment with it that I had with my BMW.
Every part of a BMW is over engineered and built to last.
I find that the handling felt more precise on the BMW but I may eventually upgrade to 17" wheels/tires and possibly go with better shocks/springs.
One of the biggest complaints I have with the WRX is the feel and stopping power of the brakes and the sensitivity of the ABS.
One thing I notice with the WRX is that there seems to be very little brake dust. I wonder if Subaru didn't go with a brake pad that dusts less but doesn't stop as well.
One of the main reasons I sold the BMW was I got tired of having the BMW sitting in the garage most of the winter. I got tired of having to drive a 1993 Ford Escrot wagon in the winter and having to maintain two cars, two insurances etc.
All in all the WRX is very practical and allot of fun to drive. To me the WRX was a good compromise and I couldn't find a car for under $30k that I would rather have.
While I am very pleased with the WRX I don't have the same emotional attachment with it that I had with my BMW.
Every part of a BMW is over engineered and built to last.
I find that the handling felt more precise on the BMW but I may eventually upgrade to 17" wheels/tires and possibly go with better shocks/springs.
One of the biggest complaints I have with the WRX is the feel and stopping power of the brakes and the sensitivity of the ABS.
One thing I notice with the WRX is that there seems to be very little brake dust. I wonder if Subaru didn't go with a brake pad that dusts less but doesn't stop as well.
One of the main reasons I sold the BMW was I got tired of having the BMW sitting in the garage most of the winter. I got tired of having to drive a 1993 Ford Escrot wagon in the winter and having to maintain two cars, two insurances etc.
All in all the WRX is very practical and allot of fun to drive. To me the WRX was a good compromise and I couldn't find a car for under $30k that I would rather have.
04-08-2003 | 07:31 PM
#15
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Ah its nice to see that Im not alone. I owned a 2002 E46 M3 before buying my 03 wrx wagon. I had to part with the M3...mainly because of the wife and dog (no way my dog was going in the M3!!!), plus the fact there is no room to take advantage of the speed in hawaii. Ah well...there will always be another day. Until then...the suby suits me fine.