[drivemusicnow]

technically the transmission problem was "fixed" in 94... i'll bet you we have quite a few members that would wave a certain finger at that remark from subaru. In my opinion, if you are going to be replacing the transmission with a manual.. get one that the trannys already going on, this way you can save a little in the purchase price, but then pay for the transmission swap. (would you be doing some of this work yourself??) The other route you could go is pay a little bit more for the car, and sell the auto box to someone and come out maybe even on the swap. (again... depending on labor) the biggest differences between a 96-97, and a 94-95 is going to be the OBDII system. the newer cars have the more electronic system, which I think is a benifit, although some do not. as to what to pay, depends mostly on the miles, and whether the person was an enthusiast (read: took good care of it) or someone who just beat on the car. if it was well taken care of, and has under 50K miles, i can definatly see a 97 being over $12k, ( my moms was) if i were you, i think i would go with a 96 (maybe 94, 95.. but i kinda like the OBDII), with low miles, good auto tranny, and well taken care of. it would probably be $8-10k. then, as you have the money to spend, drop the STi 6speed or the normal 5 speed, a "Porter suspension special" and the other normal modifications. you might also think about the supercharger kit that is being made. this is definatly a great car to buy with cash, and then still have money left to modify...