Many of you don't know but I've been test driving a 2010 STi. Last time I had it was a week ago. Since I've seen it being test driven on SEVERAL occasions so I know it's been beat on. Regardless I loved the car. White which reminded me of my old car, already STi, and way more practical. Today I decide I'm gonna talk money and see what we can haggle on. I get to the dealership and I don't see the car in the lot. Thinking hmmm either it sold or it being joy ridden again I pull on around. I see the car in the shop with the hood up. I peek in and the engine is sitting beside the car. Curious I ask the Service rep what's up with the car. He recognizes me and says oh it's just fine and they are doing a "TSB" on it. Bull.......who agrees and bets it has a cracked ringland. Taking this as a sign and walking away.
Cause I really miss it. Just realize where the line is and lesson learned was buy new....not used. If/when I get one it'll be new and it'll stay stock turbo. Suspension, bolt-ons, and safe custom tune = DONE.
You nailed the combo. This makes sense in total value per dollar in every aspect of the car as well. Although i would still buy a 1 year old used car with sub 10k miles. The old Paredo rule, in this case 20% of money invensted in car gets you 80% of the performance.