Ask the Car People.SM


Subaru Outback/Legacy Buying Advice

126 messages,  Last post on Jul 27, 2009 at 11:01 AM

You are in the Subaru Legacy & Outback Forum.

What is this discussion about? Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Car Buying, Sedan, Wagon

Messages Page 11 of 13

#97 of 126 For 2000-2002 Outback, H6 LL Bean, Ltd or VDC edition? by mountainwalker

May 12, 2008 (9:28 pm)

After getting the editions sorted for each year 2000-2002, and getting great recommendations from many forum members, I would only go with a 6 cylinder, and I definitely think either the LLB or Ltd 6 cylinder 2000-2002 or the VDC Ltd 6 cylinder 01-02 (VDC apparently wasn't available in 00).
 
Wanted to ask:
 
1) What do people like about the LLB edition over the Ltd edition for 2000-2002?
 
2) Do you prefer the LLB 2000-2002 to the VDC Ltd edition 2001-2002?
 
3) I realize the VDC for these years commands a premium. Is it worth it?
 
4) If price were no limitation, would you go for the 2001-2002 VDC Ltd over the LLB and Ltd editions?
 
5) Does getting the LLB mean paying a premium just for the LL Bean name?
 
In the last day I've narrowed my choices to these model years and editions, and Edmunds has been a HUGE help. Thanks everyone for the great advice and information.

#98 of 126 Replying to 3 posts by ateixeira

May 14, 2008 (1:49 pm)

The new head gaskets came as a running change in MY2002. So a late 2002 model should be OK. 2003 and later also, of course.
 
The VDC model was the H6 so it has more power (212hp vs. 165hp) and stability/traction control. I'm sure it will cost more and premium fuel is recommended for the H6.
 
2005 the new model arrived. For those the prices will be higher, of course.
 
A 2003-2004 should hit the sweet spot, 2005 if you can afford it.
 
They are all AWD. Should be fine for the conditions you describe.
 
I'm selling a 2002 Legacy L MT5 (non-Outback) but frankly your requirements are a bit unrealistic, so I would look for less demanding buyers, and mine's still under a Subaru Gold warranty!
 
You may want to ease up on some of those, FWIW.

#99 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [ateixeira] by mountainwalker

May 14, 2008 (2:39 pm)

Replying to: ateixeira (May 14, 2008 1:49 pm)
Thanks for the advice. Where have I posted requirements that are unrealistic? I'm only looking for a used Subaru Outback H6 VDC or LL Bean in good condition that has had a good service record and checks out well in inspection. Can you explain what's unrealistic about that?

#100 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [mountainwalker] by ateixeira

May 15, 2008 (10:48 am)

Replying to: mountainwalker (May 14, 2008 2:39 pm)
I was referring to having 2 inspections, especially given you're not in the area.
 
As a seller, I'm willing to get my vehicle MD inspected, VA inspected, or DC inspected, so they can be registered in any one of those jurisdictions.
 
2 inspections seem like a bit much to me.

#101 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [ateixeira] by mountainwalker

May 15, 2008 (12:15 pm)

Replying to: ateixeira (May 15, 2008 10:48 am)
Think you misunderstood, I wasn't referring to 2 city municipal or state inspections, but two 2 mechanical inspections (by a garage and by another expert or garage). That is not at all excessive for buying a car remotely.

#102 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [mountainwalker] by ateixeira

May 15, 2008 (1:08 pm)

Replying to: mountainwalker (May 15, 2008 12:15 pm)
As a seller, that's more than I'd be willing to do.
 
I'd do one state inspection, to make sure it passes and the buyer could register it.
 
If they wanted a mechanic to look at it I guess I'd be OK with it, but I'd let them make all the arrangements.
 
Have you found any with some warranty left? Or maybe CPO?

#103 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [ateixeira] by mountainwalker

May 15, 2008 (2:43 pm)

Replying to: ateixeira (May 15, 2008 1:08 pm)
Right, I'm talking about having a mechanic inspect the car carefully. Anyone who buys the car without a thorough mechanical inspection is really asking for trouble. A simple state or city inspection for registration doesn't even begin to cover all the potential problems. Only one with warranty left, and it is a way overpriced dealer model and they don't have any history (run from that one).

#104 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [mountainwalker] by ateixeira

May 16, 2008 (8:47 am)

Replying to: mountainwalker (May 15, 2008 2:43 pm)
Gotcha. A simple compression test will tell you if the head gaskets are sealing properly.

#105 of 126 Re: Replying to 3 posts [ateixeira] by mountainwalker

May 16, 2008 (9:00 am)

Replying to: ateixeira (May 16, 2008 8:47 am)
Did the compression test on the first car I had inspected and fyi even though it passed the compression test, had head gasket, oil pump and other leaks. It's VERY important to thoroughly (as in a 2-3 hr check) inspect any used car.

#106 of 126 99 Legacy by jeffmc

May 26, 2008 (9:54 pm)

Looking at a '99 Legacy L 30th Anniv. Wagon, automatic, 160k miles, as an extra knockabout vehicle for now. Could serve a couple years as a daily commuter, 40 miles RT, mostly open rural/suburban highway. I'm specifically avoiding the early 2.5L engines, so don't want an Outback or a newer Legacy. '99 was the first year of the Phase II 2.2L. I like the HP/torque bump, and the tranny is supposedly smoother-shifting. Is this as bulletproof as the Phase I 2.2? Anything to be wary of? I'd expect the Phase I to go at least to 250k miles with regular maintenance... can a Phase II do it just as well?
 
Good condition, clean, 160k miles, auto, nice winestone (burgundy) color. 30th Anniv pkg adds to the L model's standard goodies: power moonroof, height adjustable driver's seat, roof rack, alloy wheels, power antenna, color coordinated door handles and bodyside moldings. Oh, and of course a 30th Anniv. badge. I'd like to get it for $4k-ish. Thoughts on the vehicle for the price?
See more Car Pictures at CarSpace.com

Messages Page 11 of 13

To POST a message, please Sign In.

Advertisement

Browse by Category

Browse by Vehicle
   View All Vehicles

Browse by Board
Browse by Topic
View All Topics

Edmunds Community

Advertisement