Manual Trans vs. Automatic

[Princeli]

Hey everyone,

I have been looking for a 3rd generation Outback for months now, and can't seem to find what I am looking for. I love to drive, and most of my cars have been standards... except for a couple hot rods I had as a teenager! My 2002 GT wagon has 250,000 miles on it, I've had it for 10 years and I'm ready to upgrade.

I can't believe how things have changed. It looks like barely any cars out there have all the options I'd like... and if they do exist, they're gone as they're posted!

My question... Those of you who prefer manual trans... do you think they handle better than the automatics? Frustrated, I tried driving an 09 LTD today, in auto. It felt so boaty to me... The tires were very tall too, so that may have played a role, but in general, is there a difference in "handling" between the two?

Thanks in advance!
Lisa

[subiesailor]

I bought a 01 legacy GT because the OB was floaty - handled poor and the 4spd AT was terrible.

I have a 2.5 OB CVT today - its still floaty and handles poorly but at least the AT has more than 4 lethargic gears. CVT is probably my only favorite thing about the new OB. I would get a legacy WAGON in a heart beat if they sold em.

If you do not need a wagon - look for a legacy 5spd MT. Subaru sold a couple of years the model was called the Legacy Limited which was basically a Non Turbo Legacy GT in wagon and sedan form. Nice car I think they were sold up till 07.

That is the closest thing to the old non turbo kitted out Limited GT they sold back in the day. I miss my 01 GT Limited every day I drive the OB.

[ScoobyRu]

I think what you're feeling is the outback vs GT wagon. AFAIK, the autos and manuals use the same exact suspension. (maybe there are different spring rates?). I think you'll either have to look at another Legacy wagon, or an Outback XT. You can always change the struts out too if you're willing to pay a few hundred dollars in addition to the vehicle price. Larger sway bars are an option too.

[Princeli]

Thanks for the response! I've actually driven a bunch of Outbacks, ranging from '05 through '09, all MT except today's '09 LTD. The MT's felt much more solid on the road... and they felt especially diff around the corners. ???

[Princeli]

Sorry, I missed your response, subiesailor!

You have the new 4th gen? I'm not hugely fond of them, for some reason... but did try driving the Impreza wagon with the CVT and have to admit, I had a lot of fun!

I do need the wagon -- I am a photographer, have a huge dog, and well.... lug around a bunch of equipment!

I guess I'll just keep looking for the MT Outback. :-( They're just not easy to find with decent miles.

[Seabass]

Handling is the same, but the 4eat is extremely sluggish! It ruins the car IMO.

[BlueCorn]

Originally Posted by Princeli

Sorry, I missed your response, subiesailor!

You have the new 4th gen? I'm not hugely fond of them, for some reason... but did try driving the Impreza wagon with the CVT and have to admit, I had a lot of fun!

I do need the wagon -- I am a photographer, have a huge dog, and well.... lug around a bunch of equipment!

I guess I'll just keep looking for the MT Outback. :-( They're just not easy to find with decent miles.

I hear ya Princeli, I have a tiny dog but understand the amount of gear. I stumbled on my MT nearly at random. They're out there, just keep looking.

Cheers

[Princeli]

Should I just forget about getting one with a sunroof then?

[BlueCorn]

I don't have any idea what's available on the East coast but mine has sunroof as well.

[Princeli]

Uy, patience is NOT my virtue, but I will try and hold on...

Is there any difference in suspension between the '05/'06/'07's and the '08/'09's?