Subaru Crew - Meet The Members II

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Comments

  • ramonramon Member Posts: 825
    Eventhough the chat was nothing new. I think we should still owe a thanks to Mike Wheland for spending the time out and chat with us. I am glad that Subaru listens. And as long as they do and make improvements, I can assure you that I will stay loyal to the 6 stars of Pleiades.

    paisan : keep the xt6. it is light, nimble and it is fairly fast. Should be a great autoXer.
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    So long as your repairs aren't what a car payment would be (over $400/month nowadays), I agree.

    -juice
  • lucien2lucien2 Member Posts: 2,984
    there is a serious movement afoot over at i-club to get organized, with an eye toward sponsoring an SCCA sanctioned Rallycross in late Feb. I thought those of us in the region might want to know, especially since BugBomb joined us at Rocks this Summer...seems the Mid Atlantic i-clubbers are a couple three points up on the maturity meter over some of their peers. Especially those Kansas people, yeesh! :))

    NEways, things are kind of moving, so if you are interested, here is the link:

    http://www.impreza-rs.com/NonCGI/Forum19/HTML/000439.html
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Sorry if I seemed bent out of shape regarding the chat. I'm sure the next time around things will be better.

    Can you confirm if there is a "unbraked trailer" clause on the new WRX? The web site "implies" 2000 pounds for all(?) trailers. If so, this is different from current Subaru practice.

    When will we hear about the rest of the Impreza lineup?

    Thanks,
    Bob
  • fandcfandc Member Posts: 51
    If I still have it right (it's been a while since I crossed the pond), the UK doesn't have personalised plates as they do in the US. Last year they did allow you to sort-of customise a new plate.

    Licence plates used to be three numbers and three letters (ABC 123 or 123 ABC). Once they ran out of these combinations, they added a letter suffix (ABC 123A). Once they were all used up, it became a letter prefix (A123 ABC). What they will do next I have no idea.

    Anyway, if you play with number and letter combinations you can come up with something unique, personal or looks like a word. Plates like these can be bought and transferred to your current vehicle. The plate can be kept and transferred to later vehicles.

    This has become a fairly lucrative business. For example, a friend has a restored Triumph Cub motor cycle with the original 1961 registration. He has been offered a lot of money for the bike, not so much for the hardware but more for the licence plate which is worth even more.

    My favourite plate was on Paul Raymond's E-type. "FU 2".
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    When I was in the UK, four years ago, I noticed that the front and rear plates are different colors. One has a yellow background and the other is white. Why?

    Also, it appears(?) the UK plates are the same as those used throughout Europe. Am I correct?

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Brazilian plates are cool. You can get either US or European size/shape, and aluminum if you want, plus you can customize them. Anything you're willing to pay for is yours.

    Loosh: RallyX? Just don't tell my wife! ;o)

    -juice
  • ramonramon Member Posts: 825
    I like Brazillian and Vanezualan chicks. They are ohh la la. I used to know a Brazillina girl. She was an exhanged student. She came from where Ayrton Senna was born..... where is that? I forgot.
  • brekkebrekke Member Posts: 304
    What do you guys think of that new pontiac/toyota sporty wagon? I found a lot to like about it, and hopefully toyota input will help the reliability.
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    What was she "exchanged" for?

    Bob
  • brekkebrekke Member Posts: 304
    What do you guys think of that new pontiac/toyota sporty wagon? I found a lot to like about it, and hopefully toyota input will help the reliability.
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    This thing?
    image

    It is butt ugly. Not as ugly as the Aztek, but still quite uncoming. And their performance goal of 0-60 in "just above 8s" with a 180HP 1.8L is wishful thinking unless the car/SUV is a lot smaller and lighter than it looks.

    -Colin
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Ayrton was from Sao Paulo, I think.

    He and I share first names (slightly different spelling, but pronounced the same, "ah-EAR-ton").

    Reminds me, Brazilians also say "su-BAH-ru".

    The Vibe looks a lot better than the Aztec. At least they based it on a light, reliable platform, instead of a rather mediocre minivan.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Both the Vibe and Aztec share may of the same "Pontiac" styling cues, but the Vibe is much more attractive—sort of like the fine line between that of being a genius or an idiot.

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I agree. The Vibe is like an Idiot Savant. It has the Pontiac cues but somehow the package works in ways other Pontiacs don't. A reliable (Toyota platform and power?), 8s to 60mph crossover wagon could be a worthy competitor.

    We should have a lot to talk about tonight. The first Subaru Crew live chat starts in about 5 hours, or 6pm pacific, 9pm eastern time.

    I'll be hosting with some help from our Edmunds pals (please don't throw me to the sharks!).

    This is meant to be for regular Crew folks, so I expect to recognize paisan, Kate, Dale, Ken, Bob, Drew, Mike, Hutch, Graham, Dave, Dave, Dave, Dave, and Dave. Oh, and David too, plus WDB (middle name Dave).

    I'm sure I forgot about 12 or so Daves, but join us anyway!

    -juice
  • brekkebrekke Member Posts: 304
    I found the Vibe interesting because there aren't many small sporty wagons/hatchbacks with AWD for < $20K US, especially since I'm feeling ambivalent about the looks of the new age OBS.
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    is just a plain idiot!

    Bob
  • fandcfandc Member Posts: 51
    I don't know why the UK plates are reflective white at the front and reflective yellow at the rear. That's just the way that it was mandated. Before that, they were black with silver/white characters as can be seen in older films (movies to you foreigners). Maybe it was so that the police could tell which way the car was going? :)

    I don't think that the EU has gone to a common licence plate. France and Germany used to have different plates, as did Denmark, Italy, etc. I'm sure that the EU will try to regulate it so that everyone is the same. Sigh.

    I hate to admit that I'm old enough to remember UK plates that had raised white characters, before they went to the stamped aluminium plates.
  • lucien2lucien2 Member Posts: 2,984
    Ok, so then what is the deal with the letter "Q" ?
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Follow the link at the top of this page.

    See you there!

    -juice
  • nailitnailit Member Posts: 14
    Darn it, I missed it again. First the WRX and now our owner's club chat too. Something about "work" keeping me occupied when I would rather be chatting about Subes. Oh well... as they say... there's always next time (note to self - be available for chats on Thursdays between 6-8 pm, don't let anything interfere)

    Interesting note that my wife just relayed to me... She continues to be amazed by the Forester's tractability under adverse driving conditions. She was motoring down the freeway this afternoon in a pretty solid downpour when the guy ahead of her decided to stop in the middle of five lanes of traffic. No problem. My wife puts on her turn signal, checks to make sure the lane is clear and moves over one lane to the left. Out of the corner of her eye she sees a full-sized (F250 size) lifted 4x4 barreling down on her from the next lane over to the left. The guy driving it was really moving and there was a huge patch of standing water next to her in his lane. I'm gonna guess he saw hydro-planing written all over it (especially with those oversized 10.5 x 31" tires he had on it) because he swerved right to avoid it (no signal, just pointed it over and hoped for the best).

    Of course he started to break loose and slide right at my bride who saw what was happening, stomped on the gas and steered back across three lanes behind the cars ahead of her into the far right lane. The Forester never lost traction and to hear her describe it, it was the most natural and easy lane change in the whole world. She had just been to the store and I guess the whole back end of the Sube was chock full of groceries and stuff. The lane change must have been pretty severe because it flung stuff all over the back but she said that she personally didn't feel tossed around by the maneuver. She was really excited and animated in describing it (I've done a lousy job of describing it for you because I can't use my hands too) and wanted me to pass on to you all how safe, secure and nonplussed she felt through the whole event. She was jazzed to say the least.

    On another note... we head up to the mountain tomorrow for the weekend. They've gotten about 12" of snow so far with more expected tonight and then again tomorrow. I'm optimistic that we'll get some play time to try out the Forester in heavy snow or at least be able to drive it on some crappy roads while we're up there. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch up when we get back (with luck, I may even have some pictures to show you all). Which reminds me. How do you post individual pictures to the Sube Crew Owner's Club? Best regards to all, Dale
  • thecatthecat Member Posts: 535
    Juice - Good job last night .. keeping things together. Sorry I left suddenly. We lost power here for about an hour last night.

    I'm gonna call Darlene later today an order the 18mm bar. Get your tools ready bud. :) Tell the family, lunch will be on me!
    - hutch
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Sorry bout that, I was tied up @ work :(

    -mike
  • rangerron7rangerron7 Member Posts: 317
    I tried to get into the chat a dozen or so times from 9:00 to 10:20(EST). I kept getting the Edmunds "Chat room is closed.." page.
    -Ron
  • ramonramon Member Posts: 825
    what chat?
  • armac13armac13 Member Posts: 1,129
    I've ever been in a chat. Quite enjoyed it. Hopefully next time I'll not be called away. Thanks for the fun everyone.

    Ross
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    for your choice of the most interesting vehicle (concept or production) of either the LA or Detroit Auto Show.

    Despite my interest in the WRX, my first choice has to go to the Ford EX concept off-roader. It looks like a cross between an ATV and a dune buggy, with just a hint of an F-150 grille. This thing is absolutely wild!

    It has been rumored that Ford will bring out a production vehicle that will go head-to-head with the Jeep Wrangler. This could be hint of what that vehicle might end up being.

    My second choice is the Mazda RX-8, 4-door coupe. As most of you know, I'm a big fan of the 4-door coupe concept. I can't help but think Mazda will put this into production. I only hope Subaru is thinking along the same lines for a future coupe.

    Bob
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    "FRIDAY FREEWAY"
    Car Trivia Chat
    Date: Every Friday
    Time: 5-6pmPT/8-9pmET

    About This Chat
    This chat is a place to meet others with similar interests, play Car Trivia, and talk cars.

    We look forward to you joining us!

    Ask about our Upcoming Winner's Circle!

    Click here!
    http://www.edmunds.com/edweb/chat/freewaychat110300.html
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    to be seen at both auto shows, is that the Japanese are finally getting serious about offering performance sedans here in the States. Besides the WRX, Lexus is now offering a 5-speed manual on the IS 300 (although a 6-speed would have been better yet!), and Acura has added an "S" version to the TL lineup. All this is very encouraging. :)

    Bob
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    I find them to be kinda useless. Anyone who can comfortably sit in the back seat, can easily climb into it on the rare occasion they have to go back there, if you have people who are regularly back there, then you should get a 4 door sedan. :)

    Now I'd like to see a 4 door hardtop make its way back, like my '74 old 98!

    -mike
  • subearusubearu Member Posts: 3,613
    I kind of like the looks of the Ford 49 concept. And I don't like Fords!

    Last nights Subaru chat was a first for me too. Despite a couple of connection problems on my end, it was fun to participate.

    -brian/subearu
  • yellowbikedonyellowbikedon Member Posts: 228
    Juice,

    Thanks again for taking the lead with the Subaru Chat. This was the first time I've ever participated in a chat and other than struggling to find out how to enter a message, it was a ball!

    You do a great job and, along with the "usual cast of suspects", I extend my appreciation to all of you!

    Don
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    For us "older" folks who want a coupe, and not a sedan&#151;and... who don't bend as easily at the waist as we used to, 4-door coupes are a blessing sent from heaven.

    Because of my bad back, I would probably never sit back there, but I would certainly put packages in the back seat. Having 2 small suicide-like doors would be a tremendous help for me and others with back problems.

    Bob
  • fandcfandc Member Posts: 51
    If it's still the same, Q plates are placed on cars that were purchased for export. Meaning that no taxes were paid, on the assumption that you will pay taxes at the destination. You can drive the car normally, but have six months to take it out of the country.

    You can play games with this, of course. 'Export' it every six months and 'reimport' it a few weeks later, saying that you will be leaving the country 'real soon now'. Or, if you are really leaving the country, it may now qualify as a used car elsewhere. Fun and games.
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    is interesting, but somewhat predictable.

    It seems everybody these days has to do a "retro" concept vehicle. The '49 Ford concept is a natural for Ford to do. However, it doesn't (for me) have near the impact of the Prowler, which was the first of this breed of vehicles. It's much like the (soon to be produced) retro Chevy pickup. It's nice, but so what... To me, it's a "been there, done that" kind of thing.

    Bob
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Great job on the CHAT Juice!

    Bob
  • hammersleyhammersley Member Posts: 684
    For making me feel welcome as well... Great job, Juice... Drew, nice to finally talk to you live...and all the rest... thanks again! I look forward to more!

    Cheers!
    Paul
    (no longer a chat virgin!: :)
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    Likewise Paul! Hope you and everyone else can attend tonight's Friday's Freeways chat at 5-6pm PT (see post #629 for the URL if you haven't already).


    Drew
    Host
    Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards
  • grahampetersgrahampeters Member Posts: 1,786
    G'day

    Actually Q Plates are used on vehicles built up from components from various sources. Try this link to look at a descriptin of UK licensing http://www.dvla.gov.uk/vehicles/vehicle.htm and here for a link on personalised plates http://www.dvla-som.co.uk/ The prices paid in England for special combinations of numbers is something to be seen to be believed.

    Cheers

    Graham
  • kenskens Member Posts: 5,869
    I think we covered this a waaaaays back, but does anyone know why the front/rear disc brake diameters on the Forester S went from 10.9"/10.5" to 10.7"/10.3" between MY98 and MY99?

    I was just talking with my buddy who owns a MY00 and couldn't think of a logical reason. I wonder if it would have a measurable effect on performance.

    Ken
  • rick127rick127 Member Posts: 3
    Considering purchase of my first Forester. I have found this site & think its great. I would appreciate some advice: 1) Do the 16" tires make a material difference? 2) As I intend to use to use the Forester also for canoeing, fishing, hunting, etc. --- What mild off-pavement capabilities can I realistically expect? Your experiences? 3) How much negotiating room can I expect from my friendly local dealer? Thanks!
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Fascinating links! Trivia to the max!

    Bob
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    You can post images through this site, although I've never tried it. Folks who have, say it's fairly easy to use.

    Bob

    http://www.photopoint.com/
  • hammersleyhammersley Member Posts: 684
    Subies were well represented! I counted three of us... but I got there late, so that could be off... amazingly few attendees overall, though!

    Drew.. got booted before I could reassure you... it was merely a Level I HazMat incident... easily mitigated by readily available resources... :)

    The rest of you really don't want to know what I'm talking about... trust me!

    Cheers!
    Paul
  • kenskens Member Posts: 5,869
    Rick,

    1)The 16" tires give slightly better on-road performance due to their lower profiles and wider tread. It's hard to tell the difference under everyday driving conditions.

    2)The Forester has been designed for light off-roading with it's long-travel heavy duty suspension. I've taken it through rutted dirt roads without problems. You'll be suprised how far you can take it -- check out http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/subaruforester for some owners that do serious off-roading.

    3)I've found that dealers in the SF Bay Area will sell for invoice price + 3-5%.

    Ken
  • prouloproulo Member Posts: 26
    The ads in today's papers have the 2001 Foresters listed for $100 under invoice and 3.9% financing.

    Phil
  • ccatheyccathey Member Posts: 1
    Phil - Where did you see this ad listing Foresters at $100 under invoice. I just offered a dealer $400 over invoice yesterday - too much? It's not too late for me - I want to seal the deal on Tuesday. Please help! Christie
  • subaru_teamsubaru_team Member Posts: 1,676
    Bob - I'll check on that information on Monday. I've been out of the office for a few days.

    I'll try to stop into the chat next Thursday. I'd like to witness Juice in Action!!

    Have a great weekend!
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Please check to see if the following items will be available, either as standard or as options on the WRX and/or other 2002 Imprezas:

    Sunroof/moonroof

    Outside temperature gauge

    All-Weather-Package, with heated seats, heated windshield, and heated outside mirrors. I would think/hope that this would be available on the new Outback Sport, at least.

    Thanks! :)

    Bob
  • prouloproulo Member Posts: 26
    The ad is from Tri City Subaru and is in the Fosters Daily Democrat for Friday.

    It Says:

    Now through January 31st Buy Brand new 2001 Foresters $100 below actual invoice plus get just announced 3.9% APR financing.

    Their web site is http:/tricity.subarudealer.com

    Check them out to see if they have what you want.

    Phil
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