hi,

#1. what are the main differances between the classic (pre '97) and the classic facelift (post '97)?
If both versions had the same milage colours and conditions.... is it worth paying the extra cash for the facelift version? lets say a £1500 cost more

and

#2. apart from shape what are the main differances beween the facelift post '97 model and the bug eye version?
If both versions had same milage, colours and conditions worth the extra cash for the bug eye? lets say a £1500 cost more

cheers

 

Probably no response cos you called classics "old" in your heading ! LOL

 

LOL changed it.

 

Hi there,

For starters, the interior dash & steering wheel changed.

Try and find some pics in the gallery on here to get an idea of the difference.

As for engine, some guys who know more about this will probably be along in a bit.

 

Straight from Welcome to the SIDC :: The Subaru Impreza Drivers Club :: SIDC FAQ:

1.2 Model History

1994 & 1995

The Impreza was first introduced to the UK in 1994, initially as a five door hatchback/estate, and later as a 4 door saloon. A number of different models were available, with a choice of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 litre engines, and a choice of either front or four wheel drive.
1996

In the UK, the 1.6, 1.8 and front wheel drive derivatives were never great sellers, and were dropped from the range in 1996 (although many are still doing sterling service as Subaru dealers' courtesy cars!), leaving the 2.0 GL, 2.0 Sport and 2000 Turbo models. The last few examples of the '96 Turbo model received the revised brake callipers of the '97 model.
1997

Over the years, Subaru has constantly improved the cars, addressing many of the criticisms raised against the earlier cars. The most significant changes were introduced late in 1996 as part of the 1997 model year. The external changes were relatively minimal, with a new style bonnet and a more aggressive nose. The Turbo model received a revised engine with a higher compression ratio, low friction pistons, smaller turbo and revised engine management system. Power output was unchanged at 208 bhp, but maximum torque increased by 5% to 214 lb ft at a lower 4,000 rpm. The suspension was also revised and improved, with the turbo receiving a new/thicker rear anti-roll bar. Brake calipers were also revised.
For 1997, the turbo also received much improved sports seats, replacing the unattractive non-sporty seats of previous models. The seats are still not ideal though, as there is a difference of opinion amongst owners. Many owners find them somewhat lacking in lower back support, whilst others just report them as fantastic.
The ICE system was also changed from the Subaru badged Panasonic radio cassette to a badged Philips unit with removable fascia, and the heater controls changed.
1998

1998 saw a major overhaul of the interior, with the introduction of a new dashboard, taken from the Forester, featuring white dials, a computerised odometer and a low fuel light. Other improvements include a passenger airbag, Momo leather steering wheel, leather covered handbrake lever and a shorter throw gear lever. ICE equipment remained the same but the apertures and grills (and reportedly wiring) for the "tweeter kit" is supplied as standard. Revised inner door panels and centre console that includes the current trend for putting cup holders in cars, completes the changes. The only external changes are the 16 inch alloys on 205/50 VR16 Bridgestone Potenza tyres now fitted as standard to the Turbo model.
1999

The 1999 car continues the trend of fitting parts from the Japanese STi cars, including the front seats (although with a bit more padding) including height adjustment for the drivers seat; 4-pot front brake calipers and vented rear discs; and the high rear wing. Suspension, in line with STis, is now considerably firmer.
The front bumper has been slightly modified, being a little deeper and with just one vane (instead of two) and a naff orange plastic wedge outside the fog lights. The bumper now passes a 5 mph impact test. The fog lights and headlights have multifaceted reflectors and clear lenses.
The engine is a "Phase 2" boxer incorporating some changes to the head, and claimed power output is 7 bhp higher at 215 bhp (although torque stays the same).
Inside, the car benefits from cup holders and a slightly different Momo steering wheel. The car is at last fitted with a Thatcham "Category 1" alarm and immobiliser.
The price has risen by a very reasonable (in view of the changes) £1200, now taking the car over the £20,000 mark.

2000

The 2000 car added some minor but welcome changes to the 1999 model, following the theme of contunual development.
The most obvious changes are the wheel design. Out went the much loved curved 5 spoke design, to be replaced with a 6 slender spoke design. Opinions on the new wheel style are generally mixed, but more owners prefer the older 5 spoke design to the newer one.
Other changes include colour coded mirrors and door handles, adjustable intermittent wiper speeds, remote central locking (was already fitted prior to delivery for UK cars with the alarm system), a metallic fascia, map reading lights and a new gear ****.
The very popular Dark Blue Mica colour was replaced by a slightly lighted Deep Blue Mica, and a new Red Mica Metallic colour was added to the range.
The Impreza has been in the same basic form for nearly 8 years now, and a completely new model is expected for the 2001 model year.

 

anyone no the diffrances between the 2000 and the buy eye shape?

 

Answer to #2

I can only comment on jdm sti models cos that's what I have had, not certain about wrx / turbo 2000. I had a 98 sti4 which had the same interior as the 99/5 and 00/6 but not the improved bumpers and spoilers.

2001 jdm sti bug eye has 6 speed gearbox, AVCS, brembo brakes, 17" wheels, suretrac diffs, wider track, bigger clutch, reverse beeper, vf30 turbo, bigger intercooler, stronger crankshaft, head changes, more durable maf sensor than 99/00. Denso ecu is mappable. Car is heavier than earlier models.

Classic shape sti4 has subaru 4 pots, 16" wheels, 5 speed box, smaller clutch, no AVCS, vf24 turbo, none of the other bits mentioned. ECU is not mappable.

STI5 and 6 are similar to the ver 4 but have a different turbo (vf28 ??). The engine is also different, phase 2 instead of 1.5 ?? as are bumpers and spoilers. Jecs ECU is mappable.

There are models that have other bits such as the RA and Type R that have diff control, close ratio gearbox and stuff but standard stis are pretty much as above. There are probably other differences but It hink I have covered the main ones.

You would have to drive the cars to decide for yourself which you prefer as they are different. There are even differences between models, I test drove a ver6 sti ra limited and found it more exciting to drive than the standard sti, but noisier and a bit bumpier. I do most of my miles on the motorway so opted for the newage as I found it better suited.

 

cheers ken