Forester vs. Outback

[Porsche944]

My wife is looking to replace her '93 Legacy, and I need some advice.

I'm looking at '99 to '01 Forester and Outback, but I'm not really sure
what things to look for, like luxary options, engine/tranny choices,
appearance options and so forth, as well as what things to avoid.

My question is, (and this applies to both Forester and Outback owners) What
(if anything) would you do differently, or change about your vehicle had you
known about it before you bought the car? For example, my wife complains
that the cup holder in the Legacy blocks the clock and the radio. Minor
detail, but it annoys her. Go figure. Anyway, I'm concerned about things
like engine/tranny choices, suspension options, that sorta thing, and she is
more concerned about comfort, visibility, and appearance, so any help will
be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[Pete D]

I would buy the one my wife prefers. If a bit better clearance and easier
entry and exit are important, go with the Forrester. I have a 98 OBW and
when I have the money I will buy a Forrester because I prefer the better
offroadability of the Forrester.

 

[Alan]

Uhhhm, the OBW actually has better ground clearance (about 1/2 inch) than
the Forrester.

 

[BBB]

Uhhhm, the OBW actually has better ground clearance (about 1/2 inch) than
the Forester.

Though not so good clearance angles front and back, from what I've read
here.


--

 

[Ken Lyons]

Uhhhm, the OBW actually has better ground clearance (about 1/2 inch) than
the Forrester

I thought I had read that, but subaru.com gives ground clearance for all
Forester models as 7.5 inches and 7.3 inches for the 4-cylinder OBW. All the
H6s are reported as 7.9 inches. What's with that? More power...must ride
higher?

I think the clearance measurement is drivetrain related. I wonder how the
sill clearances compare. Putting your wheel on a rock will avoid the
differential and sump, but could whack the rocker panel after you come down.
Must take my tape measure when I next go to the store. If you see some
looney in the parking lot with a tape measure next to your OBW, please don't
shoot.

 

[Alan]

None of these vehicles should really be intentionally taken to where you
need to worry about it.

 

[Pete D]

Alan,

It would seem that you know little about offroad driving. I also have a
Suzuki Sierra that only has 185mm ground clearance with the same size wheels
that my OBW has but I assure you that my Suzuki will go far further over
much more difficult terain.

The Forester will also go many more places that the OBW will because of the
following contributing factors.

1. Shorter wheelbase.
2. Better takeoff angle.
3. Better departure angle.
4. Higher drivers seat position allowing better forward view.
5. I will put chunkier tyres on the Forester to replace the H/T's.

Cheers.

Pete D

 

[Alan]

True. Just don't call me when you get stuck.

Alan,

It would seem that you know little about offroad driving. I also have a
Suzuki Sierra that only has 185mm ground clearance with the same size wheels
that my OBW has but I assure you that my Suzuki will go far further over
much more difficult terain.

The Forester will also go many more places that the OBW will because of the
following contributing factors.

1. Shorter wheelbase.
2. Better takeoff angle.
3. Better departure angle.
4. Higher drivers seat position allowing better forward view.
5. I will put chunkier tyres on the Forester to replace the H/T's.

Cheers.

Pete D

 

[Pete D]

Ummm, okay.

True. Just don't call me when you get stuck.