I'm about to purchase either a used 2005 or 2004 STI and would like to know if the 2005 changes really made a big difference in handling. I have a 1999 M3 that I love to autocross and will be doing the same with the STI, so handling is pretty important to me. I want the 05 improvements to be noticeable if I'm going to spend another $2000 - $3000 on the 2005 model. Any opinions are greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

i think its worth the extra change, not just in the handling, but in the interior as well.

I know someone who had an 04 sti, sold it and go a 05 sti, he said it was a huge improvement

 

It's actually exact same thing. The only main difference is the interior and the radio being already installed rather than an option. In terms of handling, you can't go wrong with the STi. IMO (or even maybe a fact), it's one of the things you're paying for. You're going to love the handling and performance of this car.

 

I know people who have driven both (and by driven both, I mean autocrossed both and really got a feel for the suspension) like the feel of the 05 a lot more. From what I've heard, the upgraded pieces in the 05 are much nicer and have a much better feel then the 04 bits.

 

Thanks for the input guys. I think I'll go with the 05 once I sell my 99 M3.

 

Doesn't the 05 have a regeared transmission as well? And the 5x114.3 wheel bolt pattern (allows more wheel combinations).

 

05 differences

STi gets
new Helical Front limited slip differential
new power steering oil cooler
new wider 8" wheel (replaces 7.5")
new rear wheel arch flares, body colored (because the new 8" whl?)
new Immobilizer key, 3 supplied. Needed to start car
new Yaw sensor (part of the lateral G sensor)
new climate control
new air filtration
new smoked headlight lens
new re-designed keyless remote fob
new seat cushion side bolster material
new center console cupholders, replaces the one by the center vent
new sam/fm/CD changer w/ bass, mid, treble adjustments, 6 spkrs
new door armrest redesigned, now cloth, includes mirror controls
new colors
as well as alum. control arms

 

the struts are different as well