Some questions about the 2004 Impreza 2.5 RS sedan

[kman10587]

1. Is the front/rear power distribution 35/65 like it is on the STi, or did they make it more front-biased in the 2.5 RS?

2. What are some typical 0-60 and quarter mile times for a five-speed 2.5 RS? Also, is braking and handling in the 2.5 RS noticeably duller than in the WRX, or is it about the same?

3. I've heard a few complaints about the strength of the five-speed transmission in the WRX. Is this an issue in the 2.5 RS? How is the reliability in general?

In case anyone is wondering, I'm going to test-drive one at noon tomorrow, and I just thought I'd get a little info beforehand

[freakray]

1. No, the power split is dependant on whether you have a manual transmission or an automatic transmission. On the auto, it starts 60/40 and once above 35mph shifts 80/20 front/rear (anyone is free to correct me if I have my low speed split wrong, I am going from memory), the manual split is 50/50. The STI has a DCCD, this allows the driver to control the power split, it is not computer controlled like the WRX and RS.

2. Yes, there is a difference in the handling between the two cars, but they both handle great. The WRX is noticeably tighter.

3. Overall reliability is excellent, I have 2 Subaru's right now, a '01 and an '03 and both run flawlessly, as did my '98 up until replacement last year. The RS transmission is pretty solid, I certainly haven't managed to hurt it. A lot really comes down to the driver though and how well you can drive a manual trans.

[kman10587]

Thanks a bunch. As for the suspension, I'm sure I can tighten it up on the aftermarket pretty easily, can't I? I would think that the WRX's suspension aftermarket would work on the 2.5 RS.

[freakray]

Subaru sells kits through SPT for the RS which will work for lowering the suspension slightly as well as tightening the suspension.

[LjasonL]

The only differences in the suspension are the sway bars and springs. They make a difference but you can get aftermarket parts that will outdo the WRX parts for cheap.

[kman10587]

That's good to hear. I'm heading down there to test-drive it in about 20 minutes.