What to do, what to do... (Thinking of buying a Subaru)

#1 07-04-2003, 01:41 PM

I went and looked at this Subaru RX today. I'm thinking about getting it. I'm sure it can be had for less than $100. The lady that owns it is the original owner, and it has had all the proper service done since it was new. (Checked the records at the dealer where I work.) It recently failed the PA safety inspection because there is excessive rust on the car. (On the underside.) I was thinking about getting it, and using some bondo and undercoat to cover up the rust enough that I could get it to pass. What do you all think?

Here are some pictures.

Mike

#2 07-04-2003, 01:42 PM

The car seems very well maintained as the paint is very shiny and all the plastic is in good condition.

Chicane · #3 07-04-2003, 02:01 PM

Notice the front plate.

Go for it.

nordique14 · #4 07-04-2003, 03:44 PM

As with all used cars, looks are secondary to the mechanical condition. If the rust isn't too bad and can be brought under control, then drive it away. If the rust is too far along, the frame could fall apart and then you are screwed (especially if you are driving at the time).

Put a nice set of wheels on it and it would look good.

Matt

#5 07-04-2003, 06:39 PM

yeah I kind of like it and if you can get it for under a hundred bucks you should be able to easily make your money back. if you decide it sin't for you.

I'll tell you what to help you fund it I'll buy your two peice front lips for 100$. Am i a great guy or what.

LarryIII · #6 07-04-2003, 07:21 PM

Mike,

No mater what we say, you know you're going to get it.

Uncamitzi · #7 07-04-2003, 08:30 PM

Mike,

Is the rust structural or just ... like the floorboards?

SVXRide · #8 07-04-2003, 09:00 PM

If the rust isn't structural and the engine/trans are strong...Go for it! I'd suggest getting a good welder to weld in new floor plates - I had a similar problem with my '68 Camaro and the inspector failed it when I tried the Bondo route - said exhaust gases could still find their way through the floor boards...
Good luck!
-Bill

ensteele · #9 07-04-2003, 11:58 PM

Just remember, that after the SVX, the rest of them are all down hill.

#10 07-05-2003, 12:43 AM

Well, I was going to say that if you didn't buy it, that I would, but my boyfriend said that same thing...So, if you don't, for some reason, let me know.

I want to find something just like this (I was actually just about to post about it), so I can drive it to and from college. I kind of feel nervous taking the SVX to school...And if it gets stolen, I am just crap out of luck w/just liability.

#11 07-05-2003, 01:03 AM

But to answer your question, I think you should buy it as long as that rust issue is fixable. That is a good deal.

#12 07-05-2003, 10:16 AM

get some bondo and spray it with that rhino linings stuff. Should last for an eternity

Subafreak · #13 07-05-2003, 11:39 AM

What would you use it for? Winter beater? It looks alright as long as the heads arn't cracked you should be in good shape. Is it a manual?

#14 07-05-2003, 12:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Subafreak
What would you use it for? Winter beater? It looks alright as long as the heads arn't cracked you should be in good shape. Is it a manual?

I would use it as a winter beater. Although, I'm sure I would start fixing it up 'till it looked very nice. (My SVX started out as a winter daily car prospect.) It is a EA82 Turbo with 5 speed. The owner bought it new from the dealer where I work, and I have access to all the service records since the car was new. It was maintained very well.

Mike

Subafreak · #15 07-05-2003, 12:31 PM

I say go for it.