Legacy 3.0R vs Forester 2.0L JDM SG5 Autos

[cib24]

I am in the market for a second car that is more practical than my current only car, a Mazda RX-7 FD, but is still fun and involving. Really, it's to keep the FD off the road for more normal duties since it's just not that practical and not really comfortable at all (rides hard and is very cramped inside).

I am trying to find something interesting and I have been researching 05-08 Subaru Legacy 3.0R Estates in touring or Spec-B form as they seem like a great choice. Reliable, super practical, nice sounding, etc.

But then I stumbled upon the JDM Subaru Forester 2.0L Cross Sport SG5 from the same period and the boy racer in me really likes it. I have tried to Google and check the Forester forums a a guest but can't really find any information at all on this car other than it uses the EJ20. I have no idea how much power it makes or whether the 4 speed auto is a POS or decent to live with. And I have never even been in a Forester so I have no idea if they ride well or are reasonably refined but you would think they are given the raised ride height and thick tyres.

What are your thoughts on each? Is the Legacy the safer and better buy? More reliable and less of a headache?

[The Trooper 1815]

The SG5 is pretty uninspiring compared to a 3.0R but the JDM 2.0l Twinscroll Legacy GT Spec B is a much more interesting car.

http://www.goo-net-exchange.com/catalog/SUBARU__FO...
http://www.goo-net-exchange.com/catalog/SUBARU__LE...

The BP/BL 2004 - 2008 have 280 bhp in manual and 260 bhp in auto. The Leggy Spec B as Bilstein as standard with later facelift cars having a six speed manual box with Si Drive. The auto can be had as a flappy paddle too.
http://www.goo-net-exchange.com/catalog/SUBARU__LE...

Or a Legacy STi
http://www.goo-net-exchange.com/catalog/SUBARU__LE...

I have a JDM WR Ltd Spec B GT Legacy, the second one infact, and I love it. I have also owned the STI Forester which was a great torquey machine and was extremely capable but no bigger inside than an Impreza.

But what ever floats your boat.

Edited by The Trooper 1815 on Tuesday 28th November 18:45

Edited by The Trooper 1815 on Tuesday 28th November 18:46

Edited by The Trooper 1815 on Tuesday 28th November 18:49

Edited by The Trooper 1815 on Tuesday 28th November 18:50

[ericmcn]

I got a facelift SpecB saloon - really enjoyable car to drive and the handling is sublime.

No idea on the other models, mine is N/A of course and reliability is fantastic

I would drive a few types and see what you are comfortable with - make sure they have a decent service record of course.

[ericmcn]

forgot to add mine is manual, to enjoy the car to the fullest you need the manual box.

Some cars are suited to Autos but i think the Legacy SpecB needs a manual, its also more rare so probably will hold value better.

[Pete Franklin]

I have a 04 h6 spec b estate. Purchased as a short term punt as it was only £1500 but it is surprisingly excellent. Lovely engine although not much low down torque, and really capable handling and easily carts a family and camping gear when necessary.

Only issue with it is parts are pricy when needed and it has a bit of a drinking problem.