2004 Subaru WRX

Forester SUV

4 - Cyl.

Automatic

JF1SG69614H705112

Gasoline

Inspected: Just passed Massachusetts vehicle inspection (9-2-2011). WRX STi-ready Engine: When I bought it, this XT was a just-introduced new model. It was somewhat more expensive than the Impreza WRX, but it represented a much better choice because this one was equipped with the 2.5L STi engine while the Impreza had the smaller 2.0L engine. Both were boosted by the exact same turbocharger, so this one promised more effective power at lower RPM. And it delivers! [from Wikipedia] “The 2004 XT model uses the same Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger used in the Subaru Impreza WRX. The engine in the 2004 to 2005 Forester XT is identical to the American market Subaru Impreza WRX STi except for using the smaller TD04 turbocharger from the WRX, a smaller intercooler, different exhaust system, and different engine management programming. Those seeking additional power for their Forester XT can replace the turbocharger and intercooler with used STi components which are readily available.” You can easily boost this engine from 210HP to 300HP (but you don't have to -- it's amazingly powerful as-is). Practically New Engine: Buying a hi-mileage Subaru 2.5L can mean that you're buying potential trouble (Google "Subaru timing belt replacement" for detailed information). If you know of the cost and trouble of having to replace the Timing Belt (+ water pump, pulleys and other internal stuff) of a hi-mileage 2.5L engine, you should appreciate that this engine has less than 19,000 original miles and should be good for another 80,000 miles of lively use before requiring any extensive work. A Joy to Drive: It’s a pleasure driving this car. I LOVE it! So much so that I’ve kept it this long. Now it’s time to change wheels: I’m considering Lancer Evo, Audi TT or Mini JCW. But first I have to find a loving new home for this baby. Performance: This car has amazing acceleration, rated at 0-60 in 5.3 secs. It not only does this from standstill; when cruising in 4th gear at 65mph and you suddenly floor the accelerator, in seconds the other traffic is a mile behind you. And mark, I’ve never had to redline the engine, it does all that at normal RPMs of 2000-5000. It has enormous torque at very low RPM. Wheels perfectly aligned. Drives straight like on rails. Responsive steering and very small turning circle. Feels good to be behind the wheel of this one. New Rubber: Five new tires (full-sized spare). New wiper blades. Loaded: It's the XT Premium model. In addition to the obvious, it has: Cruise control; automatic climate control; fog lights; auto-dimming mirror w/compass, shock-sensing security system; dual-mode heated seats, heated wipers, heated outside mirrors; 6-CD changer; premium sound with sub-woofer; leather covered adjustable steering wheel, leather covered shifter, elevated center arm rest with extra storage. Talking of storage, it has lots of inside storage things and places. Mint Condition: I'm the original owner. Used it mostly for weekend joy rides and to go shopping. It's in as mint condition as can be expected of a car of that age. In those supermarket parking lots they (whoever THEY are) always manage to bump against and scrape my rear bumper. I have had the bumper fixed once in 2007, but they just keep scraping, so the scratches are back (see picture). I could have taken it to Maaco for a cheap fix. I didn't. You can take it to Maaco if you feel strongly about it. The asking price has been adjusted accordingly. Current Photos: I intentionally turned the camera's Date/Time thing ON, so all the pictures are visibly dated.