Norcalgirl

Steve, Thanks for posting that link--very helpful! As for the sedan vs. wagon issue, I think I was seduced by the the thought of driving a sedan again, and not something as utilitarian as a wagon. In the end, if I'm going to get a wagon, I'll probably stick with the Forester, since I also love the short length (lots of parallel parking to be done). Thanks again for link. Sara

Thanks for quick response! Only the Forester X has drums on the rear wheels (XS and XT are disks all around)--go figure. Am definitely heading in the direction of the roomier and handier Forester, if only it hadn't been such a super fun test drive in the sedan... Hmm. Just saw the note about the meet & greet, will try to make it if I can. Sounds like fun. Of course, right now I'm driving the ****iest rental GMC truck of all time. Not very appropriate to bring to a show and tell!

I'm new to the board--hello! I am looking to buy a 2005 Subaru to replace my beloved 2004 (sigh) MT Forester XS that just got declared a total loss after getting flooded by a high tide (it was a very high tide). I loved that car, and assumed I would simply replace it, but must admit I don't like the color choices of the '05 XS (shallow, yes). Today I drove an '05 Legacy 2.5i (auto trans, with sportshift) and to my surprise I loved it, but am loathe to give up the space and utility of the Forester (I ski, hike, camp, etc.) I also don't know how the sportshift may wear after time. I have always preferred manual transmissions. I have not yet driven a Legacy with a stick shift. As for the Forester X, which looks nicer to me, I also don't know how much I would notice the lack of disk brakes on the rear wheels (drum brakes on rear), as well as having no limited slip rear differential (I used to live in Vermont, where the latter was key)--perhaps here in (usually) sunny California it is unnecessary. Any opinions would be much appreciated. Thanks!