First Car Blues... technically.
VIP Member
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 2,023
From: Phoenix, AZ
Car Info: Subaru Impreza WRX 2002
Not to hijack an unusually productive thread with a random comment, but DAMN does that Civic SI look just like a Ford Focus! It is a rare day when Japan takes a style note from Ford, but that is a nearly identical profile, down to the mini-wing at the top of the "tail"...
Guest
Posts: n/a
When it comes to the WRX interior vs the Mz3 interior, year the Mz3 interior is more refined, but I have to say that I really like the WRX stock interior--the STi interior gave me a cargasm (blue is my favorite color).
For the WRX, I've narrowed down my options to: Premium Package, Air Filtration, (single) Turbo Boost Gauge, and Security Upgrade. And I'm gonna get a stick... regardless, because I want to drive one all the time. I just want to. Heh
I've started a thread in the shopping forum, and it was very interesting seeing people getting new 04s without a trade in for well under 25! I really need to shop around or something, because if I can net one for those prices (22, 23, etc) then the price of a WRX should be an issue no longer! Then again, I guess it also means that a Mz3 would be around 20... interesting.
For the WRX, I've narrowed down my options to: Premium Package, Air Filtration, (single) Turbo Boost Gauge, and Security Upgrade. And I'm gonna get a stick... regardless, because I want to drive one all the time. I just want to. Heh
I've started a thread in the shopping forum, and it was very interesting seeing people getting new 04s without a trade in for well under 25! I really need to shop around or something, because if I can net one for those prices (22, 23, etc) then the price of a WRX should be an issue no longer! Then again, I guess it also means that a Mz3 would be around 20... interesting.
Consider dropping the air filtration. Word around the campfire is that the elements filter well for a few days, maybe a week. Then they become inefficient and need to be replaced. Let's just say this info came from a place that sells Subaru products.
-Mirror
-Mirror
Registered User
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 92
From: Foster City, CA
Car Info: sonic yellow 03 WRX sedan
Kaeden: you really really should find out how much insurance is going to be for the WRX. Someone in this thread mentioned 2000 a year, and that's certainly at least the minimum for you, presumably 18 out of highschool. I've read posts elsewhere on the forum where people have to pay ridiculous amount for insurance.
But I will be damned if the WRX is not so likable.
But I will be damned if the WRX is not so likable.
Guest
Posts: n/a
Eheh... it was $13,000 when I checked online a few months ago--not including any discounts I qualify for. (And I just made up the coverage plan; I'm not sure how much coverage my parents want me to have.)
EDIT: By the way, I'm 16; currently a high school junior; I graduate next year.
EDIT: By the way, I'm 16; currently a high school junior; I graduate next year.
Guest
Posts: n/a
**Update**
Okay, I've been thinking about this stuff. I'd like to know what other cars you think have exceptional potential in the aftermarket modifications aspect yet still remain relatively inexpensive.
Here's a list of cars (* means I've driven it) and my opinion on them [some have been mentioned already]:
- Hyundai Tiburon GT V6 *
It's okay, the interior (leather) is nice, and I like the stock body style. I've also seen some really nice wide body kits available. The only problem is that it's not exactly the most practical choice for me due to the lack of real passenger seating. (I want a car that I can take people places.)
- Honda Civic *
It's... a'ight. The only thing tempting about it is the plethora of aftermarket modifications available. Then again, everybody and their mothers has a Civic, and I'm not about to drive around looking like a wannabe.
- Subaru WRX *
Like I've said before: it's the best car I've driven as of yet. It's all good. The only thing that is stopping me is the price (relatively expensive--wont be a problem provided I shop around) and the insurance (rough, rough estimate of $13,000). Besides that, it--to me--is pretty well outfitted stock. [And there are somethings I'd be hesitant to add on my own when it comes to engine parts.] Not to mention that the AWD is a real bonus for me. (At this very moment, you can't even get up my driveway without 4WD/AWD due to snow/ice.)
- Mazda3
Definitely seems to be a nice choice; however, the more I look at it, the funnier it starts to look (from the front at least). And since it's new, there's of couse a lack of non-generic mods available.
- Lexus IS300
The interior is excellent, but I wouldn't want to change it! And it's too expesive.
- Dodge SRT-4
Dodge Neon... enough said.
- Honda S2000
Too expensive for me right now. Not very practical at all.
- Acura RSX
As time goes on, the less and less I like the way it looks. Although, I really like the Ro Ja Pure kit for it... I don't really like the people who frequent RSX communities (ClubRSX)--they tend to get on my nerves.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart *
I liked the way it drives, and the new look is a leap forward when compared to the previous body stylings of the Lancer. I don't like the interior though... especially the seats and the steering wheel... and the audio setup.
- STi/Evolution
Too expensive. The insurance would drive my family into the poor house and we'd be on welfare. (Okay, so I exaggerated... but you get the point.)
- Nissan Altima
I don't like it enough.
- Nissan Sentra SE-R
From the pictures I've seen, the interior is fugly. I'm not to happy about the exterior either.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse
It's nice... not really practical. Stereotypically a "girl's car;" however, the kits available for it make it look a lot better.
- Ford Mustang
Umm... it's ugly.
- Ford Focus
Are you kidding me...
- Mazda RX-8
I like it; but the base, unequipped model is on the cusp of my budget. I also have a feeling that the insurance is pretty up there with the WRX; not as much... but not necessarily cheap.
- Toyota Corolla S
Generic Fugly-ness.
- Scion xA & xB
Hell no and Hell no.
Some Elaboration: I love the Nissan Skyline R34 look; especially like head/tail lights. (Apparently, though, you can get the lights on your car. I saw a [heavily] modified Integra with Skyline head/tail lights; it looked sweet--except for the front bumper lines of the DC5.)
Help me! lol
I'm in a wierd position; a lot of the cars that I see that look good are either already too expensive sans aftermart mods, or are Civics/Integras. Ugh!
Okay, I've been thinking about this stuff. I'd like to know what other cars you think have exceptional potential in the aftermarket modifications aspect yet still remain relatively inexpensive.
Here's a list of cars (* means I've driven it) and my opinion on them [some have been mentioned already]:
- Hyundai Tiburon GT V6 *
It's okay, the interior (leather) is nice, and I like the stock body style. I've also seen some really nice wide body kits available. The only problem is that it's not exactly the most practical choice for me due to the lack of real passenger seating. (I want a car that I can take people places.)
- Honda Civic *
It's... a'ight. The only thing tempting about it is the plethora of aftermarket modifications available. Then again, everybody and their mothers has a Civic, and I'm not about to drive around looking like a wannabe.
- Subaru WRX *
Like I've said before: it's the best car I've driven as of yet. It's all good. The only thing that is stopping me is the price (relatively expensive--wont be a problem provided I shop around) and the insurance (rough, rough estimate of $13,000). Besides that, it--to me--is pretty well outfitted stock. [And there are somethings I'd be hesitant to add on my own when it comes to engine parts.] Not to mention that the AWD is a real bonus for me. (At this very moment, you can't even get up my driveway without 4WD/AWD due to snow/ice.)
- Mazda3
Definitely seems to be a nice choice; however, the more I look at it, the funnier it starts to look (from the front at least). And since it's new, there's of couse a lack of non-generic mods available.
- Lexus IS300
The interior is excellent, but I wouldn't want to change it! And it's too expesive.
- Dodge SRT-4
Dodge Neon... enough said.
- Honda S2000
Too expensive for me right now. Not very practical at all.
- Acura RSX
As time goes on, the less and less I like the way it looks. Although, I really like the Ro Ja Pure kit for it... I don't really like the people who frequent RSX communities (ClubRSX)--they tend to get on my nerves.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart *
I liked the way it drives, and the new look is a leap forward when compared to the previous body stylings of the Lancer. I don't like the interior though... especially the seats and the steering wheel... and the audio setup.
- STi/Evolution
Too expensive. The insurance would drive my family into the poor house and we'd be on welfare. (Okay, so I exaggerated... but you get the point.)
- Nissan Altima
I don't like it enough.
- Nissan Sentra SE-R
From the pictures I've seen, the interior is fugly. I'm not to happy about the exterior either.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse
It's nice... not really practical. Stereotypically a "girl's car;" however, the kits available for it make it look a lot better.
- Ford Mustang
Umm... it's ugly.
- Ford Focus
Are you kidding me...
- Mazda RX-8
I like it; but the base, unequipped model is on the cusp of my budget. I also have a feeling that the insurance is pretty up there with the WRX; not as much... but not necessarily cheap.
- Toyota Corolla S
Generic Fugly-ness.
- Scion xA & xB
Hell no and Hell no.
Some Elaboration: I love the Nissan Skyline R34 look; especially like head/tail lights. (Apparently, though, you can get the lights on your car. I saw a [heavily] modified Integra with Skyline head/tail lights; it looked sweet--except for the front bumper lines of the DC5.)
Help me! lol
I'm in a wierd position; a lot of the cars that I see that look good are either already too expensive sans aftermart mods, or are Civics/Integras. Ugh!
Registered User
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 155
From: So. California
Car Info: 2004 PSM Impreza WRX
If AWD doesn't matter, I would suggest the Mazda3 as well. They've been getting plenty of good reviews. If I had extra cash for a car to just drive around other than the rex, I'd probably go with the Mz3.
But it seems like you've narrowed it down to pretty much a sporty car with plenty of oomph and a reasonable price. Looks like you're gonna end up with the WRX. As far as options for the WRX, the premium package is in my opinion, not worth it. When I went shopping for the car, I wanted just the moonroof, but it only came in the package. It also included the compass rearview, heated front seats and side mirrors and the stock wing. None of which really appealed to me. Plus, it bumps your price up $1500. All these options are nice and all, but if you look at it.. they're just options, you don't really need a boost gauge.
Also, I noticed you said hell no to the Scion line. Well, they've got a new sporty compact out called the TC. Looks RSX-ish and almost new 5/6series BMW-ish front end. I'm lookin into that as a second car when my little brother starts to drive, I might have to give up my corolla. Scion, being a product of Toyota, you can guarantee the quality of car, if it's ugly or not.
Good luck!
But it seems like you've narrowed it down to pretty much a sporty car with plenty of oomph and a reasonable price. Looks like you're gonna end up with the WRX. As far as options for the WRX, the premium package is in my opinion, not worth it. When I went shopping for the car, I wanted just the moonroof, but it only came in the package. It also included the compass rearview, heated front seats and side mirrors and the stock wing. None of which really appealed to me. Plus, it bumps your price up $1500. All these options are nice and all, but if you look at it.. they're just options, you don't really need a boost gauge.
Also, I noticed you said hell no to the Scion line. Well, they've got a new sporty compact out called the TC. Looks RSX-ish and almost new 5/6series BMW-ish front end. I'm lookin into that as a second car when my little brother starts to drive, I might have to give up my corolla. Scion, being a product of Toyota, you can guarantee the quality of car, if it's ugly or not.
Good luck!
NASIOC Slut
iTrader: (2)
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 4,723
From: Roseville, CA
Car Info: 1995 Subaru Impreza 1.8 L
Take a look at a base model Forester as well as the RS and maybe the TS wagon too.
$25,000 is alot to work with for a 16 year old... I only got $4000 to work with
Dont shoot for something too high in price (if you stay well under your limit, that might make them extra happy and accomidating 
) or something too fast, since you do need to get some more experience under your belt. I wouldnt jump into a sports car right away either. The WRX might even be too much (You can always get new seats or upholstry later on in the RS btw)
Definatly get a manual tranny car if you can, its easier to learn now then learn later.
Oh and use places like carpoint.com and edmunds.com as well as kbb.com to check on MSRP and invoice prices, along with using their nice pricing programs to price out options and such. (Im having trouble getting the RS up over $22,000 like you did
)
$25,000 is alot to work with for a 16 year old... I only got $4000 to work with
Dont shoot for something too high in price (if you stay well under your limit, that might make them extra happy and accomidating ) or something too fast, since you do need to get some more experience under your belt. I wouldnt jump into a sports car right away either. The WRX might even be too much (You can always get new seats or upholstry later on in the RS btw)Definatly get a manual tranny car if you can, its easier to learn now then learn later.
Oh and use places like carpoint.com and edmunds.com as well as kbb.com to check on MSRP and invoice prices, along with using their nice pricing programs to price out options and such. (Im having trouble getting the RS up over $22,000 like you did
)
Guest
Posts: n/a
Christian: Heh, that's what I can't stop saying to myself; although I do see the point in getting it instead. However, it almost seems pointless to me.
Kostamojen: I've been too cars, edmunds, intelliprice, etc. I'd probably end up getting new seats in the WRX eventually. (I saw some new Recaros that I like.) But the RS just doesn't seem like the same car to me... I see your point though.
Traffic: Yeah, I know about the tC; at first I thought it looked pretty cool. However, after looking at it (all of its pictures) for about 10 minutes... it turned ugly on me. [Definitely uglier than the Mz3 got after over 4 hours.] When it comes to the premium package, I think the worst thing would be for me to grow to dislike the wing [which will probably happen]; the boost gauge, I guess I don't need that (especially because I don't even know how to read it or its significance).
Kostamojen: I've been too cars, edmunds, intelliprice, etc. I'd probably end up getting new seats in the WRX eventually. (I saw some new Recaros that I like.) But the RS just doesn't seem like the same car to me... I see your point though.
Traffic: Yeah, I know about the tC; at first I thought it looked pretty cool. However, after looking at it (all of its pictures) for about 10 minutes... it turned ugly on me. [Definitely uglier than the Mz3 got after over 4 hours.] When it comes to the premium package, I think the worst thing would be for me to grow to dislike the wing [which will probably happen]; the boost gauge, I guess I don't need that (especially because I don't even know how to read it or its significance).
Registered User
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,020
From: How do you swap an RSTi?
Car Info: 2001 Impreza 2.5RS(Ti)
I think the Mazda 3 doesn't have the performance you're looking for. It certainly doesn't compare with the WRX. Have you already ruled out the MazdaSpeed Protoge. If you can deal with the wing, I think that car would be much better for you. Although the power difference isn't really that great (10 hp) compared to the price difference.
Good choice going with the stick shift. And definitely reconsider the premium package on the WRX. A lot of the options can be had after the initial purchase. I do reccomend the auto-dimming mirror. If you can live without the spoiler, heated seats and moonroof, this car will be much more affordable. All those options just add weight anyway.
Good choice going with the stick shift. And definitely reconsider the premium package on the WRX. A lot of the options can be had after the initial purchase. I do reccomend the auto-dimming mirror. If you can live without the spoiler, heated seats and moonroof, this car will be much more affordable. All those options just add weight anyway.
Registered User
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,013
From: california, LOS ANGELES
Car Info: dream car Subaru STi
bought an 04 WRX for $26,200 out the door tax included.. came with short throw shifter, spoiler....haha, and low jack system, and factory boost gauge.
if you buy it bone stock with no options at all, im sure u can get it for cheaper.
if you buy it bone stock with no options at all, im sure u can get it for cheaper.
Guest
Posts: n/a
Does the wiring for the heated seats pose any major problem if I want to replace them? Though I don't plan on doing anything like that for a while... I really want the moon roof though; the heated seats are a definite plus in weather like we are having right now. (Can you say: "my *** is frozen!")
I'm sure you could sort out wiring for aftermarket heated seats, but be forewarned: any aftermarket seat worth a s**t with heaters will be big big big $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.
Drive an RS to make sure its not what you want. It doesn't have all the power, but there's a lot to be said for good throttle response and low end torque......two areas where the standard WRX is sorely lacking.
Insurance is a big issue. Sort that out with the folks before you do anything else.
Drive an RS to make sure its not what you want. It doesn't have all the power, but there's a lot to be said for good throttle response and low end torque......two areas where the standard WRX is sorely lacking.
Insurance is a big issue. Sort that out with the folks before you do anything else.
Last edited by The Mirror; Feb 2, 2004 at 11:56 PM.
