New advice on buying a new car

[ylimert01]

seriously dont wait go for the spec b! you have no idea how rare those are..if you miss this opportunity it will most likely never come up again. driving a gt to get a feel wont be the same.

[Kracka]

"In North America, early sporty models were known simply as the Sport Sedan and Touring Wagon. Later models were given the GT and GT Limited nomenclature. The 2006 Legacy model brought forth a limited run of 500 Spec B models. Starting in 2007 the Spec B became a regular production model (albeit a somewhat limited run). All Spec B models feature an improved suspension system by Bilstein, navigation system (making the Spec. B the sole MT Legacy to get one), exclusive (to the Spec B) interior, 18" wheels, and additional aesthetic modifications. 2006 Spec B models have a 5-speed manual transmission while 2007-on models have a 6-speed manual transmission."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_Legacy

Seems silly to not at least take a drive to check it out.

[Halon]

Agreed, if you're set on a manual it's worth the drive to test it out. I still think test driving a Speed 6 would be worth your time as well. It's what my old roommate / best friend has for his DD. I love them. Nice looking car, decent power, manual tranny, interior is cleanly done (not weird race/rice seats and colors).

Also, I haven't priced them out, but I loved my Saab 9-3. It was a FWD 2.0 turbo, but they make them in awd now, but not sure if awd would be in your price range.

[Trogdor]

Another option, since you seem to like Subarus might be the Forester XT. New, these start mid 20s, so you'd be looking at low miles used for the budget you're working with.

[Kracka]

How about a used '09+ Ralliart? Are they below $20k yet?

[Trogdor]

How about a used '09+ Ralliart? Are they below $20k yet?

Yes
http://www.edmunds.com/mitsubishi/lancer/2009/?sub=ralliart

But they're hard to find. People aren't trading them in just yet, especially since the car has hardly changed a bit since '09 (a few very minor things). I looked through Rydell's inventory and I didn't see even one.

[tpunx99GSX]

2009-2010 Lancer GTS... ::runs and hides::

[Trogdor]

http://www.mnsportcompacts.net/forum/showthread.php?103845-2006-legacy-gt-limited

[FattyBoomBatty]

Hey man, CO is overrun with subarus. Don't do it. Get a kia.

[goodhart]

http://www.mnsportcompacts.net/forum/showthread.php?103845-2006-legacy-gt-limited

My buddy checked that out, said its pretty beat up