The AUSubaru.com.au Forums

Hi guys,

i am looking at either 1999 gen 3 outback 184000klms or 2002 forester 256000klms both are autos and in excellent condition.
What do I need to know does one cost more to maintain than the other, or any known problems? i will tow a small caravan approx 800kg. Both around $8000. Can either of these be lifted easily?

thanks Brian.

Hi there, I think it comes down to the Suby you like the best, underneath thay are the same car but with a diffrent body on top, like I said witch one do you like the best.

The Forester is a little bit shorter then the Outback, and becouse of that the better one to take off road.

Both can be lifted easily as thay are the same underneath. (well all most the same)

I would pick the Outback becouse I think the Outback is made just that little bit better
then the Forester, but same would say that is becouse I have a Liberty.

So i am trying to say I dont think it maters a hole lot witch one you pick, just pick the one you like the best.

Rik.

They are different "underneath".
Forester's use the Impreza floorplan and chassis - and have McPherson type suspension all round.
Outback's use the Liberty/Legacy floorplan and chassis - front suspension is McPherson, rear is a multi-link set-up.

I'd pick the Outback over the Forester; more mod cons, more comfortable, not as "plasticky", 2.5L vs 2.0L.

Just check the usual services been done and on time, headgaskets, knocking noises etc.

Outback will be the better towing vehicle, assuming that Forester is only a 2.0L.

If the Forester is N/A 2.0 litre, the outback has better power output for towing.
Outback is more comfortable than Forester specially long distance driving- that is my opinion..
I know the Foz is newer but depend on the service history on both cars.
Cheers
AP