Need your help ! 04 vs. 05 wrx - any improvements (i.e. tranny)? - looking to buy!
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Need your help 04 vs. 05 wrx - any improvements (i.e. tranny)? - looking to buy
Hey guys,
Great site here.
As you can see, i am new to this forum.
I am looking to purchase either a 2004 or 2005 WRX in the near future, but i have a dilemma.
The rates on the 2004 wrx is 2.8%, while the 2005 are 5.5% here in Toronto.
I can also probably get a purchase price on the 2004 over the 2005.
My concern after reading the forums is the transmission.
I do plan on adding a few mods, and the tranny may become an issue.
I have heard rumors that the WRX may have had an upgraded transmission in either the 2004 or 2005 models. Is there any truth to this? Or has the tranny been the same since inception in 2002?
I obviously would prefer to buy a 2004 as the finance rate is lower, and i can get more off of the msrp than the 2005.
However, if there really was a tranny upgrade or "fix" in 2005, i would not mind paying more for an 05 and the all the other updates like the centre console, new look wheels, single tip exhaust etc .. would be an added bonus.
Any help or info would be greatly appreciated, and i look forward to being a new Scooby owner in the near future!
Thanks,
HHH
Great site here.
As you can see, i am new to this forum.
I am looking to purchase either a 2004 or 2005 WRX in the near future, but i have a dilemma.
The rates on the 2004 wrx is 2.8%, while the 2005 are 5.5% here in Toronto.
I can also probably get a purchase price on the 2004 over the 2005.
My concern after reading the forums is the transmission.
I do plan on adding a few mods, and the tranny may become an issue.
I have heard rumors that the WRX may have had an upgraded transmission in either the 2004 or 2005 models. Is there any truth to this? Or has the tranny been the same since inception in 2002?
I obviously would prefer to buy a 2004 as the finance rate is lower, and i can get more off of the msrp than the 2005.
However, if there really was a tranny upgrade or "fix" in 2005, i would not mind paying more for an 05 and the all the other updates like the centre console, new look wheels, single tip exhaust etc .. would be an added bonus.
Any help or info would be greatly appreciated, and i look forward to being a new Scooby owner in the near future!
Thanks,
HHH
Last edited by HHH; Aug 24, 2004 at 08:01 PM.
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From: Are you too one of the few still living the past? Well I can change that! With a simple wicket. Yes, my friend, a wicket. PM for details.
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I'd post in the Suby Shopping forum.
In answer to your question, the tranny is, in fact, the same. The auto tranny is stronger, but the manual tranny is faster. Subarus are notorious for power hungry auto trannys. You could always get an RA gearset, and try to bulletproof your tranny. Eventually you might want to consider an STi 6 SPD.
In answer to your question, the tranny is, in fact, the same. The auto tranny is stronger, but the manual tranny is faster. Subarus are notorious for power hungry auto trannys. You could always get an RA gearset, and try to bulletproof your tranny. Eventually you might want to consider an STi 6 SPD.
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From: Mountains
Car Info: 2007 Nissan Frontier
Moved to the correct forum...
As to your question, i do not belive that there are any diffrences. BUT, the WRX tranny is not as horrible as people portray it is. In MOST cases, the tranny is just fine as long as you dont abuse it!! If you drive it in a normal way (i.e., no 5, or 6k clutch drops!) your going to not run into any problems most likely. So, as long as you dont abuse it you shouldnt have to worry too much about that.
Cheers
-Jeff
As to your question, i do not belive that there are any diffrences. BUT, the WRX tranny is not as horrible as people portray it is. In MOST cases, the tranny is just fine as long as you dont abuse it!! If you drive it in a normal way (i.e., no 5, or 6k clutch drops!) your going to not run into any problems most likely. So, as long as you dont abuse it you shouldnt have to worry too much about that.
Cheers
-Jeff
Registered User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 49
From: Roseville
Car Info: Blue 2004 WRX
Hard Question
I have spent a lot of time looking at the new 05 and wow there are some nice new thing in the car. Painted side molding, auto heat and air control, new rims and it looks to me that they might have improved on the stereo. O ya and new cloth interior that looks like its going to hold up better then the 04.
But here is the catch. PRICE
I bought my WRX 04 just as the 05's where coming off the shipping truck and well i bought the car for 20 grand out the door (including all the tax license and other crap they add on in California).
So if you got the cash get the 05. But you have to ask yourself is the new stuff on the 05 worth 5 to 7 grand??
:-)
But here is the catch. PRICE
I bought my WRX 04 just as the 05's where coming off the shipping truck and well i bought the car for 20 grand out the door (including all the tax license and other crap they add on in California).
So if you got the cash get the 05. But you have to ask yourself is the new stuff on the 05 worth 5 to 7 grand??
:-)
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Thanks for all the replies so far.
A friend of mine who recently purchased an '05 STi, claims he read some sheet that the sales manager handed him with information about improvements to the WRX and STi.
He stated that one of the "upgrades" was the manual transmission (better syncros, smoother shift).
I'm not sure if he read it properly, but i guess i believe him at this point.
Not sure what to believe at this point.
A friend of mine who recently purchased an '05 STi, claims he read some sheet that the sales manager handed him with information about improvements to the WRX and STi.
He stated that one of the "upgrades" was the manual transmission (better syncros, smoother shift).
I'm not sure if he read it properly, but i guess i believe him at this point.
Not sure what to believe at this point.
Registered User
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 9
From: Cow Hampshire
Changes from 04 to 05 STi's
Aside from the new steel gray color....
The limited slip in the front is a Helical-type and the rear is mechanical.
Aluminum Lateral rear suspension links.
17 Inch x 8 Inch BBS Wheels.(04's were 17x7)
Underbody cover for improved aerodynamics.
Rear wheel arch protector.
Smoke-tinted headlight lenses.
Climate control and Airfiltration system for the cabin.
Engine Imobilizer(anti theft).
Power steering fluid cooler.
That's the major stuff the rest is all trim
The limited slip in the front is a Helical-type and the rear is mechanical.
Aluminum Lateral rear suspension links.
17 Inch x 8 Inch BBS Wheels.(04's were 17x7)
Underbody cover for improved aerodynamics.
Rear wheel arch protector.
Smoke-tinted headlight lenses.
Climate control and Airfiltration system for the cabin.
Engine Imobilizer(anti theft).
Power steering fluid cooler.
That's the major stuff the rest is all trim
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Posts: 4,499
From: town / kaneohe
Car Info: gc w/ neons and a wrx that needs neons
the 05 got a few more bells and whistles, i'd hit it.
i don't think the tranny is beefed up, but i "heard" this guy is racing his 05 and dumping the clutch, it hasn't broke yet. i'm sure its just a matter of time though.
i don't think the tranny is beefed up, but i "heard" this guy is racing his 05 and dumping the clutch, it hasn't broke yet. i'm sure its just a matter of time though.
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Found some info
Hey guys,
Thanks for all your replies.
I think i may have found some answers to my tranny question.
According to what i have read, it does appear that the manual tranny has improved syncros in for the '05 wrx models.
I copied and pasted the info i got from wrx links.
All the other "upgrades" are an added bonus.
Littleboyblue: The '05 does have a Momo steering wheel, the logo is just smaller.
See below.
Thanks,
HHH
2005 IMPREZA: What's New?
Model Line Up-Changes:
For 2005 the main changes to the model line involve the 2.5TS and 2.5RS sedan and sport wagon. For 2005 the base car (sedan and wagon) will be renamed to the 2.5RS. The 2.5RS will replace the existing 2.5TS sedan and wagon as the entry level model for Impreza sedan and wagon, however the level of equipment will remain similar to the 2004 2.5TS. The 2.5RS wagon will have 16" alloy wheels as standard equipment.
There will now also be a 2.5RS "Sport Package" sedan that will offer several of the features of the WRX STi and WRX. This model takes the place of what was the 2004 Impreza 2.5RS. The 2.5RS "Sport Package" Sedan will feature the STi type front bumper with fog light covers, side sill and rear WRX spoiler. It will also offer a leather wrapped steering wheel, aluminum sport pedals, sport seats (WRX type), a center mounted tachometer and an upgraded audio system and a power glass moonroof.
There are several new colors added for 2005:
Crystal Grey (All models except Outback Sport)
Regal Blue (All models except WRX and WRX STi)
Obsidian Black (All models)
Product Feature Changes:
For the 2005 Impreza a number of changes have been implemented to refresh the interior design as well as a few subtle exterior revisions. The interior significantly changed with a new instrument panel, new door trim, new seat fabrics as well as new sun visors and new center console mounted cup holders. New design 3 spoke steering wheels are featured on all models. There is a new audio system for Impreza WRX, STi and 2.5RS with significantly improved audio performance. WRX will also get full automatic climate control. STi receives a new gear selector and standard anti-theft immobilizer system.
There is a new rear bumper for Impreza sedans with a wider rear wheel arch to accommodate a wider tire (from 7.5" to 8.0") on the STi models. New alloy wheels and a new large single tip muffler will be featured on WRX. All 2005 Impreza WRX models will feature new 10 spoke alloy wheels except the Outback Sport which will have a new 7 spoke design.
WRX manual transmission will be equipped with a double cone type synchronizer. All models except WRX switch to a drive by wire, electronically controlled throttle. All models with 4EAT except WRX switch to a new direct control type transmission.
STi will get aerodynamic underbody covers and a new helical limited slip front differential as well as a yaw rate sensor for the DCCD system.
Both WRX and STi receive suspension revisions as well as a new steering rack for improved driving performance.
Thanks for all your replies.
I think i may have found some answers to my tranny question.
According to what i have read, it does appear that the manual tranny has improved syncros in for the '05 wrx models.
I copied and pasted the info i got from wrx links.
All the other "upgrades" are an added bonus.
Littleboyblue: The '05 does have a Momo steering wheel, the logo is just smaller.
See below.
Thanks,
HHH
2005 IMPREZA: What's New?
Model Line Up-Changes:
For 2005 the main changes to the model line involve the 2.5TS and 2.5RS sedan and sport wagon. For 2005 the base car (sedan and wagon) will be renamed to the 2.5RS. The 2.5RS will replace the existing 2.5TS sedan and wagon as the entry level model for Impreza sedan and wagon, however the level of equipment will remain similar to the 2004 2.5TS. The 2.5RS wagon will have 16" alloy wheels as standard equipment.
There will now also be a 2.5RS "Sport Package" sedan that will offer several of the features of the WRX STi and WRX. This model takes the place of what was the 2004 Impreza 2.5RS. The 2.5RS "Sport Package" Sedan will feature the STi type front bumper with fog light covers, side sill and rear WRX spoiler. It will also offer a leather wrapped steering wheel, aluminum sport pedals, sport seats (WRX type), a center mounted tachometer and an upgraded audio system and a power glass moonroof.
There are several new colors added for 2005:
Crystal Grey (All models except Outback Sport)
Regal Blue (All models except WRX and WRX STi)
Obsidian Black (All models)
Product Feature Changes:
For the 2005 Impreza a number of changes have been implemented to refresh the interior design as well as a few subtle exterior revisions. The interior significantly changed with a new instrument panel, new door trim, new seat fabrics as well as new sun visors and new center console mounted cup holders. New design 3 spoke steering wheels are featured on all models. There is a new audio system for Impreza WRX, STi and 2.5RS with significantly improved audio performance. WRX will also get full automatic climate control. STi receives a new gear selector and standard anti-theft immobilizer system.
There is a new rear bumper for Impreza sedans with a wider rear wheel arch to accommodate a wider tire (from 7.5" to 8.0") on the STi models. New alloy wheels and a new large single tip muffler will be featured on WRX. All 2005 Impreza WRX models will feature new 10 spoke alloy wheels except the Outback Sport which will have a new 7 spoke design.
WRX manual transmission will be equipped with a double cone type synchronizer. All models except WRX switch to a drive by wire, electronically controlled throttle. All models with 4EAT except WRX switch to a new direct control type transmission.
STi will get aerodynamic underbody covers and a new helical limited slip front differential as well as a yaw rate sensor for the DCCD system.
Both WRX and STi receive suspension revisions as well as a new steering rack for improved driving performance.
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Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 3
anti-theft system
Hi there,
I'm new to these forums, and am close to buying a 2005 WRX. Can someone tell be what is included in the Subaru Anti-Theft System that is an option on the WRX (not the STI)? I asked the dealer if it included some kind of immobilizer. They weren't sure, and checked with Subaru, who told them that it does include an immobilizer. I'm not sure if that's correct, as I haven't seen that mentioned anywhere?
Any info would be appreciated.
I'm new to these forums, and am close to buying a 2005 WRX. Can someone tell be what is included in the Subaru Anti-Theft System that is an option on the WRX (not the STI)? I asked the dealer if it included some kind of immobilizer. They weren't sure, and checked with Subaru, who told them that it does include an immobilizer. I'm not sure if that's correct, as I haven't seen that mentioned anywhere?
Any info would be appreciated.
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Posts: 3,312
From: UCIrvine
Car Info: '05 Crystal Grey Metallic WRX Sport Wagon
According to the brochure from SOA, the WRX upgraded security system does not have an immobilizer. The immobilizer is only on the STi, and is a standard feature. The WRX standard security is basically key-less entry. The upgrade gives you an alarm.
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Posts: 793
From: San Jose CA
Car Info: '09 accord, '14 2 seater chevy
I thought there were two syncros that were changed? Having test drive an 04 and I'd say with my car the 1-2 and 2-1 shifts are MUCH better. I have no trouble getting mine back into first even at 15mph. The 04 I had to almost completely stop before I could get it back to 1, and going the other direction I misshifted going into second twice, but no troubles with the 05. I test drove 3 different 04s and 2 different 05s, and it wasn't a singular case. All three 04s had the same problem, and both 05s seemed to be happier.
I think the interior is sexier on the 05, the psuedo auto climate control is a little jumpy(even my 4 year old accord v6 had a more stable auto control). Most of the time I just set it as cold as I can and adjust the fan for comfort because the full auto mode is a tad erratic for my taste.
Mod wise I haven't had any troubles, if it fits an 04 it fits an 05 just fine.
There is no immoblizer, but you can have you alarm set for auto arm and it passes as a passive security device.
I think the interior is sexier on the 05, the psuedo auto climate control is a little jumpy(even my 4 year old accord v6 had a more stable auto control). Most of the time I just set it as cold as I can and adjust the fan for comfort because the full auto mode is a tad erratic for my taste.
Mod wise I haven't had any troubles, if it fits an 04 it fits an 05 just fine.
There is no immoblizer, but you can have you alarm set for auto arm and it passes as a passive security device.
Last edited by illusion; Sep 11, 2004 at 08:15 PM.