MATT DAMOND

dpram, you used to own a MS3, correct?

psychophd

interesting... I've been considering doing the same thing (s2k to ms3). I did some lurking on the ms3 boards, and while I can't compare the ms3 to the 6, here's what I found out:

1. with better motor mounts (esp rear), shifting is better.
2. most also suggest a short shifter.
3. The early probs with the engine falling out(!) are dealt with, although it sometimes it randomly still occurs. in a few cars - very rare - and yes, that would seriously suck.
4. mpg is pretty good, at least on par with the S, if not slightly better if one stays off boost (or us staying outta vtec land).
5. Other than the motor falling out(!), good reliability.
6. Bose system is decent, but not great.

After a test drive:
1. serious torque. I didn't find the torque steer scary, but it was significant.
2. the shifter wasn't as smooth as the S, but what is? It was...ok, not as bad as everyone was saying, but not smooth - it could be livable.
3. car tended to 'float' a bit going over RR tracks at 40mph. some suspension would probably address that.
4. Roomy car with lotsa potential (CAI will net 20+ hp - it's documented), good mpg, but limited by fwd. Kinda like my old EG with slightly more room.

budgy

i love my MS3, seems like most people have no clue what it is. I just have 3 simple bolt on's SRI, upgraded TMIC, and a test pipe...so for less than a $1000 in mods and I pull away from 335i's (with cargo in the back of my car), new Genesis Coupes, Mustang GT's, lots of cars that are not expecting it.

Stock shifter isn't the worst, but with the TWM SS its pretty good. The shifting and overall solidity of the car is much improved with a stiffer rear engine mount, a $140 part completely changes the car, makes it much better to shift.

I've never had a problem with the floaty feeling since I installed coilovers the first day I had the car. But I will admit the car is a pretty rough ride with them. I also never found the torque steer to be too crazy except you have to be smart or it can catch you off guard. Don't get WOT until you are getting closer to centre with the steering wheel, if the boost kicks in full while taking a corner aggressively you will either understeer a LOT or you will simply be pulled hard to one side and smash into a wall if you don't know what you are doing.

dparm

I had a Speed3 for a while but traded it for the S2000. I think it was not really a great idea. Sort of regretting it.

I'm also entertaining the idea of an 05 STI, they're about the same price as the MS3/MS6 and offer 4WD. Tempting.

MATT DAMOND

Go and test drive an 05 STI, it seems like a good median between the MS3 and the S2000.

It's a lot more sportier than the MS6, if that's what your looking for.

budgy

yeah who could argue with that, if you want AWD that can actually perform get an Evo or an STi

dparm

Well insurance rates on an 05 STI are even higher than my S2000. *gulp*

I pay $132/mo now and it'd go up to about $175/mo.


Local dealer 1 has an 05 STI w/46k for $18900...it has some silly fartcan exhaust on it, illegal tints, and a BOV. Local Subaru dealer has an 05 STI w/43k for $19995. No clue if it's stock (no photos yet). Neither has a warranty left so I'd likely get one.

Think I should offer $17500 on the first or maybe $18500 on the second one?

Snowmoto125

STI best sounding 4 banger ever!!

Abdizzle

They sound like lawn mowers, no idea what you're talking about LoL. Funny thing is MS3's with exhausts sound sorta similar to Subaru's.

XtC-604

Why would it not be an STI...the new one has all aluminum suspension parts, wider fenders(you can tuck phatter wheels) 305HP 290ftlb tQ, and various other STI goodies.