Ok, I tried this thread in another forum and came up empty handed. Now i'll try my luck here.

I'm 18 years old and going to be going to college. I have a Job and I also will be commuting to and from school this year.

After much debate on which type of car to get I am sold on the WRX, all I have not done yet is drive one. But im looking to you guys for more info.

Is it a reliable car, will it meet the daily needs and also keep my hour and a half commute enjoyable?

Yes, I know that there are many other things that I could spend my money on. Some people sports are their thing, others its computers and gadgets. Mine is cars so thats the situation there.

Any info from you WRX drivers would be very helpful. Thanks

 

Here is my reply to your questions. First of all, when you do get your WRX, are you planning on modifying the engine at all? If you are, be prepared to pay for repairs. Are you planning on racing your car at all? If the answer is yes, then plan on paying for repairs. I am simply telling you this from all of the stories that I have heard about people breaking their WRX. Now, case in point, the WRX IS a very reliable car. It is a very reliable car for daily driving, it will definitely make your commute enjoyable, and it is a very fun car to drive. Oh, and as for it meeting your daily needs, well we all have different needs so I can't answer that for you. You have to determine that for yourself. This is actually my second Suby, my first was a '99 2.5RS, which was fun although I always lusted for a WRX. And of course now I have it. Even the 2.5RS was a very nice car, and it was much fun to drive, although it isn't quite the level of the WRX. One tip that I have for you though on your purchase. When you decide on where you are going to buy, order one to come over to you, don't take one off the lot. The reason that I say this, is the first test drive I took, the salesman out of the dealership entrance, did a 5000RPM clutch drop to try and impress me. Needless to say, I didn't buy that one, or from that dealer. Basically, the WRX is a awesome car to own, and I wouldn't think of getting anything else again, except for an STi. (rant mode off now...) Sorry it was so long, PM me if you have any other ?'s

 

Just thought that I would share this with you, my WRX is also modified, and I have yet to have any problems with it. Just a little FYI...

 

If I were using one for college, I'd look into the wagon. Moving to and from Kalamazoo for school was a pain in the kneck with my Escort hatchback! The wagon is cheaper and I think it has a better insurance rating too. Being 18 years old, the WRX is going to cost a lot to insure. Also, being 18, you might want to save a little money for upgraded speakers. The stock radio is fine, but the stock speakers are very lacking. Just keep an eye out for something on sale or whaterver.

Other than that, the WRX will be a dream car. To have a WRX while still a teenager... damn I'd of been a pimp! I'm not sure what car you're moving up from, but I'd hold off on up'ing the performance at first. I'm not knocking you for being 18. I was 18 once, and it wasn't that long ago - I'm just giving you a little of my experience.

Finally, with AWD the WRX is still easy to spin in the snow. In fact, I could control my Focus a bit better through a slide in the snow than the WRX. So, when you get it, find a huge empty parking lot and have some fun. It's better to learn what the car will do when there is no chance of hitting anything.

 

I totally agree with you, yes it may be more for insurance but either way you get shafted at my age anyway. I think i pay 1000 a year just for liability. and my car is an 1989 Buick Cenutry:P But yes insurance i'd have to deal with but that would be the thing i'd put my money into. Some people like electronics and stuff. Cars are my love, and im sick of driving a crappy car. Its been three years on the buick as a daily driver, not enjoyable. But it's gained me driving experience. Also looking for a little safer vehicle, ABS is a must in my next car. All this though depends on my finances after freshy year in College.

 

Unless your parents are bankrolling a substantial portion of your purchase and your education + living expenses, I'd say you have better things to spend your money on right now than a $25,000 depreciating asset and an enormous insurance tab. Classified sections are filled with 1-year-old WRXs for sale because folks around your age in similar circumstances got too far in over their heads. Just something to think about.