I found one for sale locally and it unfortunately has an auto tranny. Just wondering if the auto trannies are ok? I do have an awful long commute so it wouldn't be too bad. I mean as long as its not that slow. Also looking for gas consumption figures, things to look out for in these cars, maintenance issues, etc. Thanks for any input.

 

Thanks, I'll have to find out more about the car (mileage, accidents) before I go and look at it.

 

nKoan is right. I own a 97 Legacy GT (auto), and the Phase 1 engines that are in that year are notorious for blowing head gaskets. I just had mine repaired, actually. The good news is that I caught it early, so the engine hadn't been damaged yet. I'm back on the road now, and my GT is running like new!

If you're considering the car, the auto is not bad. My biggest complaint about it is hard shifting when cold. After a few miles, when the transmission warms up, it shifts fine. As far as durability, I'm about to roll over 150K miles, and mine is still working with no problems.