markdl000

Thanks for your help and information. Due to your and others help, im not being scared off by a few of the 'higher mileage' outbacks. I've found this one with 91k I might go check it out tomorrow while im out. This look like what you were talking about? remember, for me, minimal work, maximal life. This year is in the range of good gaskets if I understood you correctly. Heres another... or this... Which looks most promising to you? I guess the only way to be sure is drive it and check the VIN. Another quick question: Does the Baja drive more like a truck, or more like a car. I can't figure it out. It must be meant for harder offroad use... When I expand my search radius I get some reasonable Bajas. Are the motors in the Bajas doing well? any known problems to steer me away from? ETA: I'm sure this can all be found with some searching in the forums, but I'm not a 'car guy' and would just get confused/frustrated with a lot of technical talk. simple newbie responses will suffice for me.

Your opinion is greatly appreciated. As I think about it more, and mull this decision over, I find that I cant decide what I want. Point blank: I can't find a subaru in my city/state with less than 100k miles and under $14k. I'm going to test drive the outback linked above, its literally the ONLY one i've seen thats reasonable. Is there any reason to be suspect of the 2.2 2003 engine? I read that they added a turbo to help with the sluggish acceleration in later years, and was wondering if you guys think I should just wait for a deal on one with turbo. Heres what I'm trying to do... 1-I want a car that is fun to drive (I've only driven/owned a 91 Ford Explorer and 04 toyota taco both with the smallest of engine choices, so a dog sled would probably wow me) 2-has enough 'oomph' to get around in the city and manuever (atlanta drivers...) as well as pass if need be on the freeway 3-doesnt suck gas, the crap's expensive! (20 mpg and up) 4-annual maintenance is not outrageously expensive 5-longevity of motor/tranny 6-has cargo capacity for my hobbies (wagons in general look good for this) Order of importance- 5,3,4,6,2,1 I realize this is nothing like my original post, as when I posted it I just wanted to hear about all the aftermarket accessories along the lines of what I mentioned, but if im going to lay down the cash for this thing, it has to perform where I'll be driving most... 25 mile commute to/from work... I suck at knowledge about cars. If any other make/model cars fits my description that you can think of, please let me know (even if its in PM so noone sees a non soobie name) ETA: I'm willing to fly and pick my car up... ROAD TRIP!!! whew, my fingers are tired. Thanks Mark

Thanks Brother!

This seems like a deal... anyone have CARFAX??? http://atlanta.craigslist.org/car/491671741.html I'd be able to nearly pay cash for this beast....

So tempting... Although i'll probably go for one a bit newer with a bit less miles, so ill have less to worry about. It needs to last at least 10 years from when I purchase it with minimal replacements, so lowish miles would be better for me. Thanks for the tip though, good luck selling. How long are subarus known to last...? impress me! Mark

This car makes my weep with joy. Yea that would be great, but look mighty expensive. I just want something i can load up and get the hell out of dodge with. I'm going to test drive some tomorrow, just to get a feel for handling,braking etc. I've never driven one, but a car that is so overengineered as these seem to be.. How can I NOT get one... So, are the Baja's discontinued? Why? Too unattractive? I kinda like em... Thanks for the years of good quality. I'd hate getting one that was a lemon. This thing will also have to accomodate a family in the next few years, so the wagon is a plus. Does anyone make brush guards for the outbacks? or is it usually custom work? And THANKS for the responses. I can already tell i'll like it here... Mark

I'm in the market for a new car. I've got my heart set on Subaru. They seem to be the perfect mix of performance longevity and fun. Here is my question: Aside from being an everyday (i have a total of 50 miles a day drive to/from work) vehicle, I'd like it to be capable offroad and for any emergencies that might happen. Basically, I'd like it kitted out with brush guard, big roof rack, flood lights. I want this thing to be 'mad max' looking. I'm going to keep jerry cans and such on it for emergency 'bug outs' in case of riot, flood, zombie attack... etc. Which subaru would you recommend for this purpose (I.E. year and model with what engine) where would I start looking for the accessories I'd like, and is there a company (I'm in Atlanta, GA) that you guys would recommend for the vehicle? I have no experience rebuilding or fabricating so can't buy an old one and frankenstein it like some of you have (beautiful jobs btw). My price range will be 0-$17k I hope this subject isnt beaten to death, I looked around but didn't see anything on this subject. Best, Mark