What does the USDM Spec B need to fire you up? [Archive]

Whitestar Pilot

07-28-2005, 02:05 AM

It intrigues me that Subaru is offering a limited edition USDM Spec B Legacy for '06.

Response to it on this forum, however, has not been kind. So what do we want the USDM Spec B, to be?

Personally, for me to have an interest in the car (which would involve trading my '05 LGT Sedan), here is what the car would have to have:

1) An increase to at least 280 horsepower. This is what the JDM Spec B is rated--and I know, its an entirely different motor set up over there--but when I think of "Spec B," I think of 280 horsepower. More would be fine :D

2) Unique badging (which I believe the '06 will have).

3) Unique 17 or 18" Spec B exclusive rims.

That's all it would take to get me fired up. Suspension and interior extras would be cool, but the car has to stay under $36K for me to stay interested, so they don't need to overdo it. Perhaps a boost gage. :cool:

Who is with me? If not, then what would it take to fire you up about the U.S. Spec B?

gt_ltd

07-28-2005, 02:12 AM

if i didn't have a 05 already... or find a very-good-paying job, or win the lottery.

nendo

07-28-2005, 02:34 AM

a big bump in hp needs it badly.. the spec b us style is gonna be half ass.......... if there was a spec b equal or greater to the sti power and upgraded brakes tires and wheels, then it would become a big hit!!!!!!!!!!! but nooooo,,subaru rather come out with cars without the extra bells and whistles and underpower their cars and take their cars to stupid ugly direction in the b9..... i bought a subaru cause of the great base it provides and mod it to more my liking.. i only wish they got their act together, if they didnt bring the sti here subaru would be dead in the water. now they murdered the front end of it and it looks cheaper and less sporty.. yuckk.. subaru has to get back on track and deliver us a monster to turn things around cause theres alot of people unhappy of the direction they r headed in

axis008

07-28-2005, 03:14 AM

More HP, six-speed MT (w/ DCCD maybe?), wagon variant, different bumpers maybe (like JDM Spec. B), and a few more color options would be nice. That's about it really for me.

I could do w/o the six-speed and HP, though. There's always AccessPort/ECUtek around the corner.

wukindada

07-28-2005, 03:40 AM

Basically make it a UN-LIMITED setup to save weight. Make the curb Wt around 3100lbs it is very attainable.. 6spd man and oh.......300HP/340FT-LB Stock!
Since it is a Un-limited model with very few frills price it for the ENTHUSIAST 32-34k;)

And while I am dreaming.....please do not put bridgestones as stock rolling rubber!

Slickvic

07-28-2005, 06:13 AM

How about a combination of these 2:

1) An increase to at least 280 horsepower. This is what the JDM Spec B is rated--and I know, its an entirely different motor set up over there--but when I think of "Spec B," I think of 280 horsepower. More would be fine :D

2) Unique badging (which I believe the '06 will have).

3) Unique 17 or 18" Spec B exclusive rims.

Basically make it a UN-LIMITED setup to save weight. Make the curb Wt around 3100lbs.. 6spd manual
Since it is a Un-limited model with very few frills price it for the ENTHUSIAST 32-34k;)

And while I am dreaming.....please do not put bridgestones as stock rolling rubber!

..... Friends dont let friends drive on RE-92's

PGT

07-28-2005, 06:46 AM

Correct me if I am wrong, but the JDM Spec B powertrain is identical to the non-Spec B in Japan. That means even there....this is an appearance and handling package akin to the 'sport' packages offered on BMW, Audi and Mini. Slightly different look, wheel package and stiffer suspension.

If this was an option when I bought my car (and available to the wagon), there is no doubt in my mind I would have sprung for it. Heck....I sort of did anyway since I am using that same suspension now.

melayout

07-28-2005, 06:50 AM

If you look at the differences between the JDM 2.0GT and 2.0GT SpecB models, the differences are only Bilstein suspension, 18" wheels, a different front spoiler and aluminum pedals.

Check this translated Japanese Equipment page : http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.subaru.co.jp%2Flegacy %2Fb4%2Fequipment%2Findex.html&langpair=ja%7Cen&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&prev=%2Flanguage_tools

Also, about us not getting the cosmetic JDM stuff, but if you look here http://www.subaru.co.jp/legacy/b4/lineup/index.html , the 2.0GT non-SpecB is exactly what we get in the US down to the rims, front bumper, etc.

PGT beat me to it, the Spec B won't get a power increase or a weight decrease, just the stuff I mentioned above, which is confirmed by the spy pics we got earlier.

wukindada

07-28-2005, 07:08 AM

You can keep it then, which if they try to price it more than 2-3k more than a LGT limited they will all sit in the showrooms! You are much better off purchasing a GT & upgrading it. Forget the badging & that boy racer interior.
Although if cosmetics are your thing........step riiiight up.......maybe they will even give you a kiss!

IwannaSportSedan

07-28-2005, 10:49 AM

Ok... you asked... here goes.

An option package. The Spec B should not remain a limited run. OK, SOA, run your 400 Titanium Silver and Red interior cars... Then turn it into an option package. Just like FHI is doing in Japan and elsewhere.

The Spec B as it stands right now would probably be fine with me, if I could get it without NAV, and the 2k that it adds to the price. I'd like it better if I could get it in another color besides titanium silver, since my wife isn't big on silver, and we both like blue or red better.

You guys are right. Spec B in other markets is a suspension based sport package. I would not say no to a couple extra horsepower via a catless up-pipe and an ECU reflash. Even if it means 1 or 2 less mpg. The extra horsepower, even if it is just 10 or 20, will be marketing material. But the suspension is where it's at, an no extra power doesn't bother me. (I'll save for stage 2 anyway...)

I should be able to go into a Subaru Dealer, and make the following decisions, each independent of the other options.

Sedan or Wagon

Legacy (lower) or Outback (taller)

Engines: 2.5 w/o Turbo, 2.5 Turbo, or 3.0 H6. (with a 3.0R Legacy sedan, 3.0R Outback sedan may be moot point, maybe outback is wagon only. haven't decided...)

Transmission/AWD: Standard 5MT/Symetrical, Optional 5EAT-SS/VTD, Optional 6MT/VTD (like Legacy 3.0R Spec B in other markets)

Interior: Black, Taupe, or Grey interior.

Limited package or not. (leather and Sunroof)

Spec B sport suspension package or not; available for GT and 3.0R, standard 6MT, no-cost 5EAT option, 18x7.5" wheels, RE950s 225/40-18, bilstein struts, specific STi springs, aluminum control arms, 20mm rear sway bar, and unique front bumper cover, with Spec B larger grille. Spec B/Bilstein badge on trunk.)

NAV or not. Dealer installable after-sale, as well. All models.

Convenience Package: Memory seats/Homelink/HID, maybe more (standard on 3.0R models, optional on GT/2.5i)

Garnet Red should become a color choice for the whole line, and Solid Red added for 2.5 GT and 3.0R. WR Blue optional on Spec B package, or a commemorative edition, like 04 JDM WR Limited Spec B. Somehow to get at least a few WR Blue Legacys built in the US.

That way if you wanted cloth interior, no sunroof with a 2.5 Turbo/6MT and Spec B suspension in a wagon, you could order that.

If you wanted a Fully loaded leather, memory seats, 5EAT, no spec B suspension 3.0R sedan with NAV, you could order that.

Even if they only build certain of the most statistically viable option combinations for dealer's stock, a knowledgeable customer, (like say ME!) should be able to go in to the dealership, sit down with a salesperson, and hash out the exact combination I want on each one of those options, and order that car.

I know SOA isn't so keen on JIT manufacturing, but most other car companies offer MUCH more in terms of Build-to-Order capabilities, even if it isn't quite Just-In-Time. Subaru needs to be able to cater to it's customers like that, if it wants to acheive it's brand image goals of being seen as a near-premium brand. Plus it is just good business to offer what customers want to buy. Heh, who would have thought that?

rao

07-28-2005, 10:50 AM

Once again; an additional 150 hp :D

Deer Killer

07-28-2005, 10:54 AM

1. Twin scroll, even if the power output remained the same.
2. 6MT if twin scroll, otherwise just a better box.
3. Fix the refinement problems in the current engine.
4. Better brake feel, not necessarily brembo's
5. Seat inserts/alcantera vs red leather. How about subaru blue inserts?
6. Available NAV with MT.
7. Non-brilliant silver or rally blue pearl.
8. Mcintosh.

dark_rex

07-28-2005, 11:41 AM

6spd

wunderkind

07-28-2005, 11:58 AM

gas mileage must be that of an echo!

IwannaSportSedan

07-28-2005, 12:11 PM

Deer Killer, I think you are spot on with wanting that stuff, but some of it isn't all that likely.

1 Twin Scroll... Doubt it, but it would be nice. I've heard it is denied on emissions something or other. I'd love it if it would appear.

2 6MT would be nice with or without the twin scroll. They already have one in the 3.0R spec B Legacy. Not hard, just do it SOA, even at a cost-option basis (standard on Spec B, though.)

3 Rumor has it that the refinement issue is taken care of for 06.

4 Agree on the brake feel, even from just one test drive. Felt somewhat linear, but didn't bite much. different pads (and tires) might be the ticket.

5 I'd love blue alcantara interior. Not with silver, though. Too cold. Blue with blue, or blue with black. Red alcantara with solid red... hint hint.

6 Spec B Already has NAV and MT. Only car in the lineup to have it, GT Sedans can't get manual and NAV together (one or other), and Wagons get neither regardless. I wish NAV were optional on the Spec B, so I could get one without NAV. I wouldn't argue with a 5EAT option, even though I want a manual trans.

7 Non-brilliant silver... Spec B is Titanium silver. a slightly darker tinted silver, specific to the Spec B. I definitely would buy one, almost regardless of content, if it were WR Blue pearl.

8 McIntosh, oh yeah. I'd buy that option, too. Especially if there were some sort of way to get a aux line into it.

franklin

07-28-2005, 12:58 PM

6 speed, some more HP than a regular Gt (275-290?), Upgraded suspension and some trim to distinguish it from a "regular" Gt.

pdw

07-28-2005, 01:11 PM

2 6MT would be nice with or without the twin scroll. They already have one in the 3.0R spec B Legacy. Not hard, just do it SOA, even at a cost-option basis (standard on Spec B, though.)

The 6MT in a Legacy is highly unlikely because the Feds will make them recrash test it. Every engine/body/transmission combination has to be seperately crash tested. This is part of the reason SoA's discontination of the 5MT GT Wagon is so stupid. They already paid a big fixed cost.

DKB_SATX

07-28-2005, 02:03 PM

Wagon, MT, 300+ hp.

IwannaSportSedan

07-28-2005, 02:31 PM

The 6MT in a Legacy is highly unlikely because the Feds will make them recrash test it. Every engine/body/transmission combination has to be seperately crash tested. This is part of the reason SoA's discontination of the 5MT GT Wagon is so stupid. They already paid a big fixed cost.

Daft bureaucracy crap. Mandate every little thing, then charge money to test it all over and over again... There is a reason "deregulation" has become a word. It is either the gov't charging tens of millions of dollars to the car manufacturers for the service of crash testing their cars, which BTW, is mandatory... And if they didn't charge the car company, who charges me in the price of the car...

The gov't would otherwise raise taxes and charge me anyway. I know nothing is free, but what happens when everyone has to pay for bureaucratic inefficiency, and gov't waste...

You are right on about it being stupid to pull the 5MT from the wagon in that case.

I just wonder what they'll do with the WRX STi when the impreza goes to a shortened legacy platform, and the STi wants to keep it's 6MT, when all the rest of the cars get 5MTs... OR if they want to offer a higher-performance legacy, like an STi model.

Flanders

07-28-2005, 02:40 PM

Wagon!

GardenWeasel

07-28-2005, 02:48 PM

Telescoping steering wheel, a 13:1 steering ratio, and 1 g on the skidpad :lol:

Opie

07-28-2005, 03:30 PM

I wish it was coming with:
6-Speed
availible in as 2.5 Turbo and 3.0 H6
HID
Avail. Sat radio
3.0R lower body cladding and wheel arches

[U]I know it is coming with:[?u}
Bridgestone RE050A's

Edited for clarity! :D

rao

07-28-2005, 03:33 PM

Opie,

Is that for real?

What a waste......

melayout

07-28-2005, 03:49 PM

Opie, are you serious?

Th3Franz

07-28-2005, 03:57 PM

A better gearbox, more like the WRX STi's drivetrain. 5-speed is fine, but most people would want a 6-speed.
Wider wheels with wider tires, RE-050's would be good since that's what the GT should have come with from the start.
Spec B suspension that offers good handling with pretty good ride comfort
4 piston brakes with better pads stock -- I heard that even the regular 06 WRX will get 4 pots

But I'm not going to sell my 05 GT, regardless. :)

pdw

07-28-2005, 04:06 PM

Daft bureaucracy crap. Mandate every little thing, then charge money to test it all over and over again... There is a reason "deregulation" has become a word. It is either the gov't charging tens of millions of dollars to the car manufacturers for the service of crash testing their cars, which BTW, is mandatory... And if they didn't charge the car company, who charges me in the price of the car...

The gov't would otherwise raise taxes and charge me anyway. I know nothing is free, but what happens when everyone has to pay for bureaucratic inefficiency, and gov't waste...

You are right on about it being stupid to pull the 5MT from the wagon in that case.

I just wonder what they'll do with the WRX STi when the impreza goes to a shortened legacy platform, and the STi wants to keep it's 6MT, when all the rest of the cars get 5MTs... OR if they want to offer a higher-performance legacy, like an STi model.

Meh, regulation can be bad or good, largely depending on the amount. Too little and we'd still have carburated engined spewing filth into the atmosphere (I remember driving around with my parents in the late 70's, the air was BAD). Cars wouldn't be as safe either. I have no faith that the auto makers would have cleaned up their products on their own. Half the time they refuse to fulfill their warranty obligations.

Crash testing every engine/body/trans combo is a bit ridiculous though.

bgsntth

07-28-2005, 04:17 PM

Spec B wagon. Bilstein suspension, no sunroof, re050's-hooray!, leather, 12-13" 4-pot brakes, and telescoping wheel.

Sad to say, though I thought I could live with it, my OBXT's soft suspension, hideous tires, miserable braking, tag team duo non-telescoping wheel and sunroof-I cannot get comfortable, are causing me to have second thoughts about the car. I would swap it out for a Spec B as described above. I'm also taking a hard look at the Volvo V70R, really hard.

Jedi Pimp

07-28-2005, 06:32 PM

Fold down rear seats
Other color leather besides red
Brembos

Opie

07-28-2005, 06:35 PM

Opie,

Is that for real?

What a waste......

I editted my post for clarity...but if your question was regarding the RE050A's....yes, I'm serious....

RayDhaIn

07-28-2005, 06:40 PM

I talked to a Subaru sales guy a couple of days ago when i was doing my 15k service, and he said a spec B should come out next week and will be displayed on Polaris Mall here in Columbus,OH.
Oh yeah, he also said that there's gonna be 555 spec B available. Hmm,i wonder what is the significance of the "555" number??

iyamdman

07-28-2005, 06:45 PM

If the Spec B. is just a suspension option, then all it would need to justify a $2-3k cost is simply to become a Legacy GT option for C-Dan and Wagon - no matter what color.

Ditch the colored leather and add some little details like 18" x 8" rims with 235 tires, right side mirror that tilts down when you hit Reverse, obviously a radio with AUX IN (F-ing duh SOA!!!) and tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

Now, if you want to talk about what I would want in a Legacy STI for $40K, that is another matter - and maybe another thread.

PGT

07-28-2005, 06:49 PM

Oh yeah, he also said that there's gonna be 555 spec B available. Hmm,i wonder what is the significance of the "555" number??

http://www.rally.f-1.ru/rally/s2002/pic/subaru%20555/04.jpg

Rally car designation

rao

07-28-2005, 07:45 PM

I editted my post for clarity...but if your question was regarding the RE050A's....yes, I'm serious....

Thanks :)

IMHO, the Spec B is a waste of time and money :(

Tommyh

07-28-2005, 08:56 PM

Ok... you asked... here goes.
.....
I should be able to go into a Subaru Dealer, and make the following decisions, each independent of the other options.

Sedan or Wagon

Legacy (lower) or Outback (taller)

Engines: 2.5 w/o Turbo, 2.5 Turbo, or 3.0 H6. (with a 3.0R Legacy sedan, 3.0R Outback sedan may be moot point, maybe outback is wagon only. haven't decided...)

Transmission/AWD: Standard 5MT/Symetrical, Optional 5EAT-SS/VTD, Optional 6MT/VTD (like Legacy 3.0R Spec B in other markets)

Interior: Black, Taupe, or Grey interior.

Limited package or not. (leather and Sunroof)

Spec B sport suspension package or not; available for GT and 3.0R, standard 6MT, no-cost 5EAT option, 18x7.5" wheels, RE950s 225/40-18, bilstein struts, specific STi springs, aluminum control arms, 20mm rear sway bar, and unique front bumper cover, with Spec B larger grille. Spec B/Bilstein badge on trunk.)

NAV or not. Dealer installable after-sale, as well. All models.

Convenience Package: Memory seats/Homelink/HID, maybe more (standard on 3.0R models, optional on GT/2.5i)

Garnet Red should become a color choice for the whole line, and Solid Red added for 2.5 GT and 3.0R. WR Blue optional on Spec B package, or a commemorative edition, like 04 JDM WR Limited Spec B. Somehow to get at least a few WR Blue Legacys built in the US.

That way if you wanted cloth interior, no sunroof with a 2.5 Turbo/6MT and Spec B suspension in a wagon, you could order that.

+1

That would be what I would've ordered.

So, now if my car gets totaled there is nothing on the market that I'd want. Including the '06 offerings from Subaru, but they'd rather not listen to what some of their customers want.

rfd425

07-28-2005, 10:11 PM

Okay, I'm going to give two answers: what I would want in a Spec-B, and what I would want in a Legacy STI.

Spec-B: Bilstein suspension, max-performance tires (I'd pick Bridgestone S-03's, but that's negotiable), bigger front brakes, an extra 20-30 horsepower, and different wheels, possibly but not necessarily 18's. Short-throw shifter and Momo knob would be standard, and the price would be no more than $3K more than a standard LGT. Also, there would be a choice of colors, so that I don't have to take a red interior in order to get the performance mods. Additional badging would be subtle, but would indicate the Spec-B package.

Legacy STI: STI coilover suspension, max-performance tires, really big brakes, at least 330-350 hp (possibly in the form of a turbo H6), lightweight 18" or 19" wheels, 6-spd transmission with short-throw shifter and unique STI knob, and a price in the $36-39K range.

Basically, the idea is that the Spec-B would be a reasonably priced performance option package for the LGT which would include most of the mods enthusiasts commonly choose to do. The Legacy STI would be a totally different car, a legitimate M3 fighter for the serious performance enthusiast.

IwannaSportSedan

07-28-2005, 11:32 PM

Tommyh, I think you'd have to find another 2005.

RFD425, I am with you on the STi stuff...

Basically, I have said the same in the past. Many times.

Spec B being an option package on top of the GT. 2500-3k seems like a good price. not as much margin for SOA as 2.5k for cow interior and a glass panel in the roof, but I can't imagine people opting for it if it costs more than that.

Legacy STi being a separate model above the GT Spec B. It would have all of the Spec B stuff installed standard, but I am not sure if any manufacturer will put full-on aftermarket-grade coil overs on a production sedan. Probably just Bilstein struts, STi progressive springs, decent size roll bars, and aluminum arms. Like Spec B, but valved and sprung correctly for the weight of the H6TT

The H6TT that they installed in the B11S concept car made a whole lot more than 330hp. More like 400. That is more like it. More than the Charger RT. (although not as much as SRT) More than non-M BMWs, and non-S4 A4s. 6MT with Variable Torque Distribution AWD is a must. 5EAT optional for those who really want an auto in a car like that... (but why? just kidding! :D )

STi's brembo brakes would do quite nicely for a ~3400lb car.

I would think mid 35k-38k depending on NAV option, and sunroof. (all of them would get black leather / blue alcantara / red stitchwork interiors, regardless of sunroof. Of course the spec b would get a little bling of a badge, and the STi would get it's little jewelry...

I'd save, beg, borrow, trade, whatever to get an STi like that, but who knows if it is going to show up. A Spec B package on any GT would be a definite start, though.

iyamdman

07-28-2005, 11:45 PM

If Subi wants to reposition the brand upmarket, then it is going to need an M3, and the only way they could do that is an STI Leg with a Turbo H6.

We are talkin' 400 horse kinda M3 eater.

Now, that I would pay $40k for, or even more!!

Hell, I would pay $45k for a wagon!!

If it is $50k, then I would get an M3.

Subi will never have that kind of brand equity ($50k worth) - or at least in this decade.

Tommyh

07-29-2005, 02:04 PM

Heck, all I really want is for SOA to have decided to continue to build my car and not decided that people don't want a Sport Wagon, since BMW is heavily advertising its 5-series SPORT WAGON.

keith05legacyGT

08-03-2005, 11:48 AM

Hmmm I have an '05 limited black on black with factory short throw, Cobb Stage 1, Anthracite SSR 18" wearing Bridgestone Pole Positions. Over 17k trouble free miles already. Getting the STI spec springs and some beefier sway bars to finish off the ride and a B Spec rear spoiler.

Unless the B Spec has a 6 speed and same variable AWD as the STI I don't really think it would be worth it.

MtnSub

08-03-2005, 12:30 PM

Pretty much what IwanaSportSedan said with these comments:
1. Must have a wagon option for me to buy.
2. 340 to 375 torque is okay by me.
3. Get real on price. $37k-$38k, before NAV, for all the power, 6MT, H6TT, Brembos, suspension, 18s with great tires, upgraded audio, interior upgraded, even better seats. We are asking for a M3/S4 level car and $2k-3k under $40k USD is a major bargin. No reason for Subaru to offer a Halo or Flagship car to crazed, market fringe enthusiasts for a loss. I do think Subaru will get major promo/press and brand uplift from such a super machine.

A question for all you pro gear heads. Can Subaru produce the H6TT and meet their historic reliability expectation? We and Subaru do not need a costly pain in the "ARS" (Audi Reliability Sucks) syndrome.

BatChips107

08-03-2005, 12:57 PM

it needs a better stereo and BREMBO's :) !!!!

akm3

08-03-2005, 01:32 PM

Minimum:
Wagon, Badging, Wheels

Better:
6MT, 280+hp/tq

Best
World Rally Blue

IwannaSportSedan

08-03-2005, 07:14 PM

1. Must have a wagon option for me to buy.
2. 340 to 375 torque is okay by me.
3. Get real on price. $37k-$38k, before NAV, for all...
I do think Subaru will get major promo/press and brand uplift from such a super machine.

A question for all you pro gear heads. Can Subaru produce the H6TT and meet their historic reliability expectation? We and Subaru do not need a costly pain in the "ARS" (Audi Reliability Sucks) syndrome.

Not to have a wagon option on a Legacy STi would be preposterous. It would be a grand tourer (the WRX STi is more of a sporty/rally car) and what is better than a touring wagon getting more power?

I have a feeling that FHI won't do it if they can't make the 3.0 TT as reliable as they expect it to be. They have likely been working on it for quite some time.

akm3:
I'm with you... wagon should be there, especially with the demise of the GT 5MT wagon. a GT Spec B Manual wagon would at least be a bone thrown to enthusiast drivers who want a wagon.

The US Spec B is already getting the 18" Spec B rims from Japan, I just wish they were wider than 7". They look nice, though, especially with a bit of lowering.

A 6MT would be a real substantial selling point, and Subaru already has it in other markets on the 3.0R Spec B.

280hp/torque: mild ECU re-flash will get it there, as it's almost there already (underrated at 250 now) It'd be a nice touch for enthusiasts, a marketing tool, and not much trouble for SOA no significant cost increases.

WR Blue. I've already said I'd crawl over people to get a WR Blue legacy. :D

godwhomismike

08-04-2005, 07:31 AM

We have 43 postings and no images of the Spec-B - what gives??? Post some pics :)

wukindada

08-04-2005, 07:42 AM

4-5k more for Suspension..Badging...Wheels & a ugly interior:lol::lol:

IwannaSportSedan

08-04-2005, 08:06 AM

Here are opie's earlier pics, from the "New Info" thread... Pics he took covertly at a SOA dealers meeting earlier this year. Note that red leather color may not be completely accurate due to the close flash, but we are thankful just to have any pics at all...

[pics taken down, out of date]

MtnSub

08-04-2005, 01:41 PM

Who does Subaru think anyone will buy a Spec B (as we think it will be equiped) for any more than $1,500 over LegGT/Ltd? Take a look at what you get from BMW for $1,600, 325i Sport Package.
1. Anyone with an existing LegGT would be crazy to trade up for the Spec B, IMHO.
2. Old guys like me with $, that are new Subaru buyers and do not want a wagon like me, may consider the Spec B, but will laugh/walk if price is more than $1,500 over LegGT/Ltd list and I am not sure this group even exists.
3. Younger WRX move up types know thay can do better with their own aftermarket mod program.
I just cannot see why anyone would opt for the Spec B, over a LegGT/Ltd if it cost more than $1,500 extra. What the hell is Subaru SOA thinking? If this car is intended to keep the LegGT in the press, it will and it will gen bad press.

Now, for a real LegGT/Sti, incl a wagon, like IwanaSportSedan has profiled, I can see how a number of very different small groups of buyers would fight for every unit shipped in the $37-$39K range.

SOA must be too smart to do this and we must have bad info on the content or price of Spec B being considered for NorAM.

akm3

08-04-2005, 06:07 PM

You know, this discussion sounds VERY familiar to me when we were talking about the "new" STi before it was released and everyone said "Why would people pay more for 30hp and some bodykit changes?".

This is when everyone still thought the STi was going to be a 2.0l and 260ish hp. Then Subaru dropped a bomb on everyone with the 300/300 2.5l . . . And they kept the secret GOOD too...Maybe they have something up their sleeves for the SpecB that they haven't released yet...

Hmmm....

But still, damnit, I want a fricking wagon. With standard transmission. And easy aftermarket radio :)

-Allen

MtnSub

08-04-2005, 06:50 PM

Wagon, wagon wagon, wagon, get it, we are talking Subaru, wagon, wagon, wagon. Subaru owns the wagon segment, don't walk away from it so you can compete in the oh so non-competitive sedan segment.

Tide

08-04-2005, 06:54 PM

I've talked to a few different dealers and many feel that it will come with an HP bump, which is why its not immediately listed with the rest of the model information.

iyamdman

08-04-2005, 08:22 PM

F4yoshi

08-04-2005, 08:39 PM

Argh...I'm tempted to put one on order, but without knowing if it'll have a bump in power, I can't justify paying MSRP. Well, that and not knowing what the price will be.

Realistically, the changes they've made are okay...but making a wagon version and having the NAV as an option would boost sales a lot. Giving a modest boost in power...say from 250 to 270-280 would really boost sales and yet keep the exclusivity of the WRX STi having the most HP. And it wouldn't take much modification to do.

wunderkind

08-04-2005, 10:04 PM

you guys quoting 270-280hp bump to the legacy..... the car is already producing around that much anyways! Oh... you want Subaru to ammend the published figure is it? ;)

inthedeck

08-04-2005, 10:14 PM

Also quite weird that you cannot see the strut/spring in the picture with the tire only...what's with that? someone photochopped it out? Oh well, guess we will wait and see...the end of august is almost around, and that's when things will start making waves.

Whitestar Pilot

08-05-2005, 01:59 AM

I've talked to a few different dealers and many feel that it will come with an HP bump, which is why its not immediately listed with the rest of the model information.

If this happens then suddenly I become a contender to purchase one.

The wife loves the silver titanium exterior, so I think I could talk her into it. ;)

Leonardo

08-05-2005, 07:54 AM

I could do w/o the six-speed and HP, though. There's always AccessPort/ECUtek around the corner.

BINGO!!!

Give this boy a candy bar!!!

IwannaSportSedan

08-05-2005, 07:22 PM

I talked to a salesman in Des Moines today... Supposedly the "Subaru Guy." The first one was evidently could only try to sell me a mazda, even though I pulled up in the one I already have.

I asked "the Subaru Guy" if he knew anything about the upcoming GT Spec B. He thought a Spec B was a japanese-only twin turbo. Hasn't been that for several years now, and I didn't say RSK. Maybe he was playing dumb, but I have a feeling he makes his commissions peddling WRXs and Outbacks, and Legacys aren't exactly buying his lunch.

No literature, no nothing on the 06 cars, and only one new '05 Leg 2.5i sedan on the lot. No other Legacy to be seen. The unknowledgeable salesman says the Legacy grille has changed a tad bit for 06, though. I can't say I noticed that from the 06 pics thread...

They did have a pair of 06 outbacks, a 2.5i limited, and a green LLBean. Chrome headlights, and standard "Air Filtration". That'd be about the only changes. I wonder if the glovebox is hacked up with a handsaw as OEM on those...

El Salesman says it will likely be around the end of August when they get the 06 Legacys. But yet they'll get 2 Porsche Cayman S's in January, right as they become available. (yeah, sure they will)