Okay so after finishing up with some modeling deal I had to do this morning, I had some downtime before I had to go class. I decided to stop by the local Subaru dealership just to kill time and see if they had anything nice on the lot. Turns out, they had one Spec-B sitting out front. As I was looking it over up close, a salesperson who recognized me (we've purchased 3 subi's from them so they should) came out to greet me. I said hello and we started the typical small talk and then he went back inside because there was a slight mist compliments of ****ty ohio weather. Surprisingly enough, about 5 minutes later he comes back out with a set of keys and hands them to me. Pretty cool guy eh? So there I go, leaving the parking lot in the LGT spec b for a short drive. Needless to say I did not go out and beat the **** out of the poor car because it's no faster than my GT limited, however, I did do my best to push it through corners a little bit just to see if I could feel the difference in suspension between the two. From what I noticed, the Spec B's ride is slightly stiffer and there is not quite as much body roll under cornering. While it was an improvement, I was still not very impressed. After returning the car, saying my goodbyes and getting back into my own legacy, I actually felt better about the car I was in. Not just because I'm bias, but because I don't think that the Spec-B's deserve all the hype. Here's why:

Sticker price...$35,600...kind of rediculous when you take into consideration what all you're paying more for.

Suspension...yeah it's different and it's an improvement but it's still nothing really to get overly excited about

Wheels...wow, cheap, factory 18" wheels...oh joy.

Interior...the red definitely makes a statement. too bad i thought it was kind of ugly compared to my all black interior. It just doesnt seem to fit the car in my honest opinion

Navigation...can't ever go wrong with a nav unit...

I guess that since there are only going to be a limited number released to the US this year (500 or so) that they are going to be an item of value. However after getting to play with one, I'm in no hurry to trade my car in for a glorified version of what I am already driving.

Please don't think I'm bashing anything or the company, I'm just a tad bit disappointed!! Has anybody else had experience with the car?

Byers?

yes. Great people to do business with if you ask me

Suspension improvement is nice, and I really liked the look of the car, interior and exterior. I wouldn't get a NAV system as a option (usually 'bout $1-2 K). Disappointed engine not upgraded and MT not 6 sp. Ended up buying a 05 MT LGT Limited wagon for many thousands of $ less. Will upgrade suspension, engine performance, etc. as time goes by.

I've spoken w/ Larry there, he was really cool and whatnot.

I agree. Spec B name means nothing in US but red seats and Navi. 6MT and STi motor would truely seal the deal.

However, I am happy that Subaru is trying new things and bringing fun cars over. That is a good trend that if continues, will bring us real STi models of Legacy and Forester.

Agreed. The 6speed would have made me trade in my 05 GT. A power boost would have been nice too.

But, its still a good idea regardless. I hope SOA brings more limited edition vehicles over here.