5k: OG Impreza: 2000 Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS

Subaru had been selling family cars for years before the introduction of the turbocharged monster known as the WRX, but most offered mediocre performance and reliability that was not on par with Honda/Toyota (with a few exceptions).  Subaru introduced the Impreza in 1993 as a sporty compact sedan but it was not until the 2.5RS model appeared in 1998 that performance was finally offered that matched the sporty exterior.  Find this 2000 Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS for sale in Milwaukee, WI for $5,500 via NASIOC forums.

Truth be told, this author test drove a new Impreza 2.5RS way back in the year 2000 as a potential daily driver and I was impressed with the tight handing and acceleration that was considerably better than the diesel Mercedes I had been driving around.  I passed on the 2.5RS and purchased a turbocharged German sedan, but that is a story for another time.

In the 2000 model year, the 2.5RS cost almost $20k, which was $4k more than the basic Impreza, but it offered a larger 2.5 liter flat-4 with 165-horsepower and (most importantly) Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system.  The 2.5RS also includes hood vents, scoops and a big rally-style wing on the trunk.  This one looks in decent shape for the miles (150k) and most importantly has had some major maintenance done in the past few months (headgasket, timing belt, water pump and rod bearings).  Expect another 150k miles of snow sliding with this red ride.

See a better snow ready coupe for less? tips@dailyturismo.com