Steve,
kart_man mentioned this post to me.
I previously had a 2000 UK model standard impreza turbo (215 bhp).
What I liked about that car was it's chuckability and it felt small around you. Plus a lack of turbo lag.
It felt choked at about 5500/6000 rpm though. Not a big car. More like a hatchback in my opinion.
I now have a 2001 GTB. 280 bhp (I think). A little lag on the big turbo so if you want to play on a corner you need to plant it a fraction of a second earlier (takes a little confidence and practice). I think I need more practice!! It is a proper family sized car. Doesn't attract too much attension from those fine young lads in shiny white track suits. Properly fast. In Germany if you are at a ton and plant it in 4th (5th too) it takes off from that point like a rocket and makes a great noise. B roads are great fun still. Handling is very secure. I think porche had some involvement in the suspension (not sure what though!).
It is fairly chuckable and has quite neutral handling. Turn in is pretty decent. Standard brakes are so off the mark it is a joke though. I have standard discs with EBC Red stuff at present which is working out like a good comprimise but I don't think the discs will last. I really need a decent AP or Brembo setup.
I would personally not bother with a UK spec car. I would go for a grey Jap import. Take a look at dhcars.co.uk (David Hendry Cars). That is where I got mine. They were good helpful dealers and have some decent cars I reckon.
The new GTB is the same twin scroll engine now as the Imprezas so it will be more tuneable. If you can stretch to it then I'd go for a new model GTB
Any more queries or if you want a look-see-spin Steve then let me know (I'm in Ayrshire)
Paul
