Help me find an AWD car. - Page 4

1killercls · 12-03-2008, 6:54 PM

We have a 2008 3 Hatch too. I wasn't trying to be a dick. Like I said, nice cars to me for the $$$.

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mrmako · 12-04-2008, 5:18 AM

The 3 is nice looking, as is the 6. But for me, the interior is a turn off. The whole circle thing in the middle of the center stack does nothing for me. I mean, the interior on my Legacy is good (not great), but fairly functional with its layout. It's not in the same league as the Acura, but that's not why I bought it, though. The beautiful interior is in the car with the McIntosh Stereo...See below:

Test drive the GT, or a 3.0 and you'll want one.

is300eater · 12-04-2008, 5:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrmako

Test drive the GT, or a 3.0 and you'll want one.

I still remember when I test drove the LGT, the salesman was in the passenger seat... and luckily he wasn't all uptight and anal... we were coming upon a left on arrow... but it was turning yellow... at that point I had to make a decision to either slow down and come to a stop at the light OR gun it and take this left turn full on... I was going to begin braking when the sales guy said "Go for it!" and I DID! Holy shit!! Damn! The handling was like on rails. So, we get to another light... and pulled up next to a MB CLK500. I had a feeling this guy wanted to race... so when the light turned green... I gunned it and sure enough the guy had the same thing in mind, he went along for about 50 yards... and couldn't pull ahead, then just bugged off and turned at the next intersection... keep in mind, I had 3 people in the car, and to be honest... I was a bit timid because it wasn't my car... so I wasn't giving it 100%

Rock2534 · 12-04-2008, 8:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by is300eater

I still remember when I test drove the LGT, the salesman was in the passenger seat... and luckily he wasn't all uptight and anal... we were coming upon a left on arrow... but it was turning yellow... at that point I had to make a decision to either slow down and come to a stop at the light OR gun it and take this left turn full on... I was going to begin braking when the sales guy said "Go for it!" and I DID! Holy shit!! Damn! The handling was like on rails. So, we get to another light... and pulled up next to a MB CLK500. I had a feeling this guy wanted to race... so when the light turned green... I gunned it and sure enough the guy had the same thing in mind, he went along for about 50 yards... and couldn't pull ahead, then just bugged off and turned at the next intersection... keep in mind, I had 3 people in the car, and to be honest... I was a bit timid because it wasn't my car... so I wasn't giving it 100%

Legacy handles good, but then again I thought my CL-S in stock form handled great and I know some disagree with that. One thing that bugged me with the LGT is the body roll, I always felt like I was leaning on the door going around any type of turn. I never felt that was the case in the CL, anyway, a set of aftermarket sway bars fixed that pretty quick.

Mako-is that the stock stereo over there? Looks nice. I like the stock stereo in that it plays mp3 cd's and has the aux in jack, but the speakers are pretty weak. I am not sure I am going to have the car for the longterm so I am not swapping out the stereo components.

mrmako · 12-05-2008, 7:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rock2534

Legacy handles good, but then again I thought my CL-S in stock form handled great and I know some disagree with that. One thing that bugged me with the LGT is the body roll, I always felt like I was leaning on the door going around any type of turn. I never felt that was the case in the CL, anyway, a set of aftermarket sway bars fixed that pretty quick.

Mako-is that the stock stereo over there? Looks nice. I like the stock stereo in that it plays mp3 cd's and has the aux in jack, but the speakers are pretty weak. I am not sure I am going to have the car for the longterm so I am not swapping out the stereo components.

The McIntosh setup is about a $3500 option, and can not be had aftermarket. They run fiber optic cables to the amps, and have speakers in 13 locations. I'd hate to try and duplicate it.

My pics on page 3 of this thread have the stock stereo set up, and you could probably get a Subie HU on ebay that will do the MP3's. And in stock form here, it has the 6 disk changer/MP3 (and WMA) unit. No aux plug, as I have the navi option.

And as far as speakers go, I chucked the POS factory ones and installed Polk 6 1/2 inch components up front, and 6 1/2 Polk coaxial in the rear. It makes a nice difference, and the job was not tough. I have a thread on LegacyGT.com, look here:

http://legacygt.com/forums/showthrea...+installation"

I know, I know.......

I just can't answer yes or no.....

S A CHO · 12-05-2008, 9:34 AM

Legacy guys, in your opinion would it be better to hold off for a few more months and look for a Spec B? Is it worth the extra money? I know it has a few more features which I really like such as Navi, 6- speed, and the upgraded suspension.

Let me know

is300eater · 12-05-2008, 10:07 AM

I'd wait a few more months for a Spec B

mrmako · 12-05-2008, 7:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by is300eater

I'd wait a few more months for a Spec B

Mine is a spec B, and you get a Bilstien suspension (reverse strut/coil like a WRX), a Torsen LSD in the rear, and a better grill. If you want the good looks, the spec B is the way to go.

I would take a peek over at legacyGT.com and OZliberty.com for info on the cars themselves. And be sure you try to drive a spec B, then a GT to see/feel the difference.

aaronnn · 12-05-2008, 11:02 PM

i dont know if its the same here..

the specB here in the states doesnt offer the better looking grill.
the only other differences are the 6speed trans and the bilstein suspension.

i didn't think it was worth it for me to get the spec b for the extra cost, aat least here in the US. i upgraded to Tein Flex Race coilovers anyways.. which ride way better than the bilsteins.

the LGT on its own is pretty damn good. the spec b will add a little extra, but not completely necessary. its more of a cool factor.. getting the limited number stamp and suede inserts are pretty nifty.

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 3:06 PM

'07+ Spec B also has the R180 rear end from the STi, aluminum suspension bits etc...

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 3:12 PM

and since everyone else has been whoring...

nokiaman · 12-06-2008, 6:16 PM

^ If I saw it on the road, the first thing on my mind would be active outdoor lifestyle.

SRK85 · 12-06-2008, 6:31 PM

Jeez gas is so cheap why not go for a G35x or RL. But for manual why not go with say an S4 or even an IS350 AWD.

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 6:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nokiaman

^ If I saw it on the road, the first thing on my mind would be active outdoor lifestyle.

she gets up to the mountain in a hurry.

**Street Spirit** · 12-06-2008, 9:13 PM

mattg: I thought you had a wagon... ?

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 9:21 PM

nope. this is the car I've had since 2005 (crappy 1980's interior and all

). If I had it to do over again I may very well have ordered this car in wagon form.

**Street Spirit** · 12-06-2008, 9:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mattg

nope. this is the car I've had since 2005 (crappy 1980's interior and all

). If I had it to do over again I may very well have ordered this car in wagon form.

Okay, okay...I'll give the interior an upgrade to at least 1991-ish.

So who here has a wagon...I could've sworn someone had it in white and always thought it was you.

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 10:04 PM

you'll have to do better than that.

second one is mine. no my pic isn't as good.

mrmako · 12-06-2008, 10:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mattg

you'll have to do better than that.

second one is mine. no my pic isn't as good.

It's OK to whore...as long as you get paid

I know Acura makes some very nice interiors, and it was a step down to go from my 2GTL (with Nav) to the Subaru, but the point is the Subie interior is better than Toyota. There's look very spartan, and actually suck.

The point to the OP is this: There are a lot of nice cars out there, but if you want 4 doors, AWD, and some sporting flavor, the an Audi A4/S4, Subaru Legacy GT / specB (or a 3.0R if you're really open minded), Mazda 6 (do the still make the Mazdaspeed6?), or an Infiniti G35x (AWD) are the targets. And quite frankly, a GT can be built up so it has the same or more power than the A4/G35, and is lighter than those cars.

You went to the dealer, and saw the Subaru. Now on a good weekend, you need to do some back to back to back test driving, and take notes. This is a lot of money you're going to put down for a car, and you should be prepared.

Some of us feel (I think Mattg will agree) that the Subaru offers the best combination of sport, reliability, functionality, and comfort for the money. If money is no object, then there are other cars to consider, but I'm sure you are not made of money.

Peace

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 10:39 PM

agreed. It was definitely a step down interior wise from my CL-S to the Legacy. But I upgraded to AWD, 5MT and a much more extensive aftermarket to make up for it.

price was absolutely a consideration when I bought this car. mine was ~ 26k otd back in 2005. there wasn't much competition and it was actually the only car I looked at.

mrmako · 12-06-2008, 10:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mattg

agreed. It was definitely a step down interior wise from my CL-S to the Legacy. But I upgraded to AWD, 5MT and a much more extensive aftermarket to make up for it.

price was absolutely a consideration when I bought this car. mine was ~ 26k otd back in 2005. there wasn't much competition and it was actually the only car I looked at.

I paid $18.8 OTD for something 2 years old with 12K miles on the odometer, almost flawless exterior, and zero rash on the wheels. They look brand new (dammit, I just reminded myself to go wash it).

**Crazy Acura** · 12-06-2008, 10:58 PM

I want in!

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 11:01 PM

buying a low mileage car FTW! I wanted a particular color, option combo and there weren't any pre-owned available when I needed a car. plus I have been enjoying it for the last 3 years.

**mattg** · 12-06-2008, 11:01 PM

that was a nice car jiznezzal.

**Crazy Acura** · 12-06-2008, 11:10 PM

Yours too!

Im shocked how low the A4 was. Cant believe i drove it like that for 3 years. I talked to the current owner recently and guess its at 70k miles with no issues. Should have kept it!

mrmako · 12-07-2008, 4:24 AM

That is one sweet Audi. I've always said they make some of the best interiors in the world (and VW, their parent, does a decent job as well). It's one of those things. I really love my car, but if I were in Europe again, I might go for an S4 or RS4.

S A CHO · 05-31-2009, 9:28 PM

Well, the time has come to start looking. The Taurus needs a few things here and there and I have the option to put it under classic car insurance ($230 a year, 15,000kms/year) so I don't have to get rid of it and can fix it as I choose.

I'd be lieing if I didn't say I was strongly considering an 05 BMW 330CI-M Sport for a few weeks but then I kicked myself with some sense - the winters, maintenance, and price were all factors.

Now the hunt is on. I'm actually surprised at the lack of 05+ manual GT's there are for sale in the area. I thought there would be more but seeing as it's an 05 there should be more on the market soon as all the 4 year leases are coming to an end.

Also, for any current Legacy GT owners, I've been reading of an issue - the clogging of a banjo bolt filter in the turbo oil cooler line that starves the turbo of oil and eventually ruins it. How worried should I be of this in a car with anywhere from 30,000 - 60,000 miles? That wouldn't be a good way to kick off the car's ownership with a turbo replacement a few months after purchase.

mrmako · 06-01-2009, 3:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by S A CHO

Well, the time has come to start looking. The Taurus needs a few things here and there and I have the option to put it under classic car insurance ($230 a year, 15,000kms/year) so I don't have to get rid of it and can fix it as I choose.

I'd be lieing if I didn't say I was strongly considering an 05 BMW 330CI-M Sport for a few weeks but then I kicked myself with some sense - the winters, maintenance, and price were all factors.

Now the hunt is on. I'm actually surprised at the lack of 05+ manual GT's there are for sale in the area. I thought there would be more but seeing as it's an 05 there should be more on the market soon as all the 4 year leases are coming to an end.

Also, for any current Legacy GT owners, I've been reading of an issue - the clogging of a banjo bolt filter in the turbo oil cooler line that starves the turbo of oil and eventually ruins it. How worried should I be of this in a car with anywhere from 30,000 - 60,000 miles? That wouldn't be a good way to kick off the car's ownership with a turbo replacement a few months after purchase.

The only thing you should worry about with the 30 - 60K range is the timing belt. You want that checked / inspected before you purchase. And I believe the banjo bolt issue was solved with the 06 model, but I could be wrong. Ask MattG or Sly Raskal.

Also, you can poke around on http://LegacyGt.com and search for that problem.

virtualbong · 06-01-2009, 8:27 AM

I am looking forward to my first AWD car...picking up a 07 BMW 328xi coupe this week!

12-05-2008, 9:34 AM	#126
S A CHO That was uncalled for... 1993 Ford Taurus Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Toronto, Ontario Age: 21 Posts: 6,351	Legacy guys, in your opinion would it be better to hold off for a few more months and look for a Spec B? Is it worth the extra money? I know it has a few more features which I really like such as Navi, 6- speed, and the upgraded suspension. Let me know __________________ . My 1993 Taurus SHO: Click Here 1991 Ford Mustang GT - 5.0L, 5-speed.

12-05-2008, 10:07 AM	#127
is300eater I Paint Faces Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: 626 Posts: 13,585	I'd wait a few more months for a Spec B __________________ 03' FX45/Stillen STB/Eibach Pro/LMS intake/22" Element114-462 multi pc. forged wheels/Nismo cat-back exhaust/8k HID/TechnoSquare Reflash/Beltronics Pro RX65/GTSpec Rear Lower Tie & Lateral Bracing/blacked out headlight housing MY Gallery

12-06-2008, 3:06 PM	#130
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	'07+ Spec B also has the R180 rear end from the STi, aluminum suspension bits etc... __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 3:12 PM	#131
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	and since everyone else has been whoring... __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 6:16 PM	#132
nokiaman Registered Member Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: May 2007 Location: Maryland Posts: 5,695	^ If I saw it on the road, the first thing on my mind would be active outdoor lifestyle. __________________ Mark

12-05-2008, 11:02 PM	#129
aaronnn Acura-Less Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Jersey Age: 24 Posts: 3,173	i dont know if its the same here.. the specB here in the states doesnt offer the better looking grill. the only other differences are the 6speed trans and the bilstein suspension. i didn't think it was worth it for me to get the spec b for the extra cost, aat least here in the US. i upgraded to Tein Flex Race coilovers anyways.. which ride way better than the bilsteins. the LGT on its own is pretty damn good. the spec b will add a little extra, but not completely necessary. its more of a cool factor.. getting the limited number stamp and suede inserts are pretty nifty.

12-06-2008, 6:31 PM	#133
SRK85 intelligentsia Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Land of cheap vodka, hot girls, and great nightlife Age: 24 Posts: 4,045	Jeez gas is so cheap why not go for a G35x or RL. But for manual why not go with say an S4 or even an IS350 AWD. __________________ 1997 3.2 TL dark Blue My web site http://www.cardomain.com/memberpage/619420

12-06-2008, 9:13 PM	#135
Street Spirit Moderator Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Mar 2004 Posts: 8,340	mattg: I thought you had a wagon... ?

12-06-2008, 9:21 PM	#136
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	nope. this is the car I've had since 2005 (crappy 1980's interior and all ). If I had it to do over again I may very well have ordered this car in wagon form. __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 10:04 PM	#138
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	you'll have to do better than that. second one is mine. no my pic isn't as good. __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 10:39 PM	#140
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	agreed. It was definitely a step down interior wise from my CL-S to the Legacy. But I upgraded to AWD, 5MT and a much more extensive aftermarket to make up for it. price was absolutely a consideration when I bought this car. mine was ~ 26k otd back in 2005. there wasn't much competition and it was actually the only car I looked at. __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 10:58 PM	#142
Crazy Acura Moderator 2009 BMW M3 My Garage Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Chicago Burbs Posts: 33,376	I want in! __________________ "I'm, young enough to know the right car to buy yet grown enough not to put rims on it" -Shawn Carter

12-06-2008, 11:01 PM	#143
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	buying a low mileage car FTW! I wanted a particular color, option combo and there weren't any pre-owned available when I needed a car. plus I have been enjoying it for the last 3 years. __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 11:01 PM	#144
mattg Mega Moderator 2005 Subaru Legacy Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: OR Age: 34 Posts: 21,280	that was a nice car jiznezzal. __________________ 2005 Legacy GT (stage 4e) pic 2001 CL Type S / Retired..pic

12-06-2008, 11:10 PM	#145
Crazy Acura Moderator 2009 BMW M3 My Garage Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Chicago Burbs Posts: 33,376	Yours too! Im shocked how low the A4 was. Cant believe i drove it like that for 3 years. I talked to the current owner recently and guess its at 70k miles with no issues. Should have kept it! __________________ "I'm, young enough to know the right car to buy yet grown enough not to put rims on it" -Shawn Carter

05-31-2009, 9:28 PM	#147
S A CHO That was uncalled for... 1993 Ford Taurus Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Toronto, Ontario Age: 21 Posts: 6,351	Well, the time has come to start looking. The Taurus needs a few things here and there and I have the option to put it under classic car insurance ($230 a year, 15,000kms/year) so I don't have to get rid of it and can fix it as I choose. I'd be lieing if I didn't say I was strongly considering an 05 BMW 330CI-M Sport for a few weeks but then I kicked myself with some sense - the winters, maintenance, and price were all factors. Now the hunt is on. I'm actually surprised at the lack of 05+ manual GT's there are for sale in the area. I thought there would be more but seeing as it's an 05 there should be more on the market soon as all the 4 year leases are coming to an end. Also, for any current Legacy GT owners, I've been reading of an issue - the clogging of a banjo bolt filter in the turbo oil cooler line that starves the turbo of oil and eventually ruins it. How worried should I be of this in a car with anywhere from 30,000 - 60,000 miles? That wouldn't be a good way to kick off the car's ownership with a turbo replacement a few months after purchase. __________________ . My 1993 Taurus SHO: Click Here 1991 Ford Mustang GT - 5.0L, 5-speed.

06-01-2009, 8:27 AM	#149
virtualbong Luke 1:37 Trader Rating: (0) Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Boston, MA Age: 30 Posts: 4,551	I am looking forward to my first AWD car...picking up a 07 BMW 328xi coupe this week! __________________ 2007 BMW 328xi Coupe \| 2005 Infiniti G35 Coupe (Gone 2009) \| 2005 Acura TSX (Gone 2007) 2008 Ducati 848 \| 2006 Yamaha Raven R6 (Gone 2010) \| 2003 Honda CBR 600RR (Gone but not forgotten)