Hi,

I'm a newbie and am looking to purchase a wrx w/n the next month. I've been floating around the boards recently doing research and it's great to see such a loyal fan base for the car!

One question I had was trying to decide between an '04 vs '05 wrx. I am looking for the premium package due to the added benefit of heated seats for the cold winters. I've read about the changes this year, but none of them seem important to me except for the change in the transmission to dual cone (sp?).

I test drove a new wrx w/ the short throw sti shifter and the shifts seemed very balky and rough. Later I test drove a 2002 w/ an aftermarket shifter that was much better. Does anyone know if the new tranny will make a difference in shifting and warrant the price diff. between '04 and '05?

I'm planning for upgrades in the near future, but nothing crazy (likely turbo back exhaust, chip, and rims).

Thanks!