Hi all, im in between buying two cars, a 1995 wrx ra import(totally standard bar an exhaust), and a 1996 wrx import(also standard bar exhaust/filter). I've read about the differences,light weight,low ratios,no elec windows etc. What im interested in is have any of you owned one of these,and your veiws on owning them,which is better,motorway use,difference in performance etc.
I will be tuning it,so this is also a consideration.
Your veiws are greatfully received!

Thanks,Tim

 

I own a 96 WRX RA, if you planning on using it on motorways it is pretty loud ! and it is geared for the bottom end. Not saying dont buy it but the other one would be better on the motorway.

Buy the RA and use B roads !

 

Iv got a RA altho i havent had it that long i love it


RA for me everyt ime

 

I have a sti ra 95 and love it. But if you are doing a lot of motorway miles it might not be the right car

 

Early RA bit too low geared for trackdays even - I was quicker round Brands Hatch Indy in my WRX than a pal in his RA who topped-out at 125mph.

 

Thanks for the replies. I won't be using it on the motorway too much,and i have a bike for track days! Andy,how did your WRX compare to your mates RA on handling and excelleration?

Tim

 

Got to be the RA, WRX's are 10 a penny (sorry WRX owners) If your not doing much motorway driving ( I don't do any) then the RA is the best. The gearbox is amazing, you can't throw gears at it fast enough.

Top speed is about 120 in mine, but it gets there very fast, untouchable on B roads. You will need to change the brakes if it still has the OE 2 pots as they are not up to much.

I love mine, it brings a smile to my face everytime I drive it, I still can't get over how quick it is even after 2 years of driving it. Buy the RA

 

my ra will push 140mph it has the stronger v5 gearbox on it so im notsure if that makes a difference but like T5OLF says u cant give the gears fast enuf

 

I'm lucky enough to own an imported colin Mc'rea RA and if you are looking for a car that will put a very big grin on your face every time you drive it , then go for an RA. That is if you can live without toys like electric windows / abs / airbags ect.. These cars are primarily stripped-out point and shoot rally cars. On the motorways , crusing should be kept to speed limits they don't like going fast for long journy's.
If your moding I've got a blitz exhaust clear indicators and a dump valve and eventualy 555 graphics. If your looking for driver satisfaction then get an RA!!!

 

mate i have a 97 sti version 3 and i think the car is the dogs for performance , and for mpg i have to say its fantastic . But must admit do,nt know much about the ra or wrx in terms of performce , i think its all down to personal choice at the end of the day , but be carefull as i got a qoute of my insurance company when i first bought my scooby and was qouted £800 for the wrx but had to pay £1000 for the sti
Goog luck in finding your car and let us know what you end up buying

 

I have a 1996 wrx import (currently 265bhp) with a few goodies it has the close ratio short shift gearbox too.
Recently had it delimited from 112 mph and it topped out at 147mph (thought it could do 150 but just short due to the gearing as i hit the rev limiter in 5th)
However the speed it hit 140mph is amazing very good low end pull due to the closer ratios and short shift

 

Well...i've just bought the RA! It's a fresh import,61000 miles with JUMVIA cert.It's basically standard,no spoiler,side skirts,elec windows,ABS etc,but does have a stainless system,F Win ally rad(?),uprated hoses,air con.
My next question is about kph-mph converters and de-limiting, but i'll post a new topic.
Again thanks for your replies,if i hate owning the car it's all your faults!!!!LOL

Thanks,Tim