1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport (aka OBS) review from North America
"Best Enjoyment/Cost Ratio on the road!!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Mechanically:
No problems to date (I realize I am jinxing myself as we speak).
Comfort:
Road trips longer than a few hour are a literal pain in my ass.
Accessories:
Dounut-sized spare... full sized tire won't even fit in the tire well (this pisses me off).
Wheel covers seem to come off easily...I've replaced 2 so far at a cost of $55-75US each!
General comments?
Engine/Transmission:
You won't win any races against true sports cars, but 3rd gear on M/T is surprisingly wide. Pehaps slightly underpowered... newer ones have 165HP.
AWD:
This car is actually well suited to dirt roads, snow, and wet pavement.
AWD is pure driving nervana!
Fuel Usage:
Very decent... upper 20's miles/gallon.
15 gal tank will take you 350 miles.
Suspension:
One of the best handling cars in its price range.
General:
If you take a measurement of enjoyment that your car gives you and divide that by its price, you get an ejoyment/cost ratio. In my opinion Suby's OBS is number 1. And, when you throw reliability in the mix, it's even more obvious.
Don't get me wrong, If I could afford a BMW 3-series (Specifically the 330XI with 260 HP, 6-speed manual, and AWD), I would buy one, but I would keep my Suby also!
Price paid: $16,999US + TTL... A STEAL!
This car is just like my old 1986 Hyundai Exel GL, except better in every way!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2L H-4 DOHC with AWD transmission Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 17 miles |
| Most recent distance | 29000 miles |
| Previous car | Geo Storm |
| Date of Entry | 7th March, 2003 |