Used 1998 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 Impreza, so we've included reviews for other years of the Impreza since its last redesign.
My '97 Outback Sport
dbfrmarc, 08/22/2011
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
Well lets start with the fact that this is my first car but I have driven many cars before but I love this car. I can take turns down mountain passes at 85 and this car wont have a problem doing it. I dont get great mpg but my work is at the top of a mountain and so i drive up and down a mountain pass everyday so i didnt expect it to be great. All my family has replaced on it is the clutch system and a transmission bearing. Considering this car has 269,000 miles on it, im pretty damn impressed by it. We also replaced the stereo system but if you dont feel you need an extra loud stock stereo, I would recommend this car to anyone and everyone.
15 years and counting
thomas68, 02/24/2011
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought the car new. It has never left me stranded. Have had to replace multiple CV Axles. The car has been spring leaks like crazy the last few years and I have had to replace just about all the hoses, gaskets and seals. That said it is still fun to drive and the engine runs as smoothly as the day i bought it. If you find one for sale by owner that has all the maintenance records you will probably be getting yourself a great car for around $3,000.
1998 Subaru Impreza for sale near you
Showing 2 of 2 listings
- L WagonMSRP: $5,9992,372 mi away
- Outback Sport WagonMSRP: $3,9952,383 mi away
Oil Leak
thunder22, 03/20/2014
1998 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
When I purchased this car I knew it had an oil leak but for a 1998 with 57,000 I didn't car. I've had it for four years now and have hardly had any problems with it. I didn't have the money when i bought it to repair the oil leak (broke college kid) Finally got it fixed four yrs later and it has 105,000 wheel bearings had to be replaced but other than that i haven't had to invest much into it. for 18 yrs old she runs great!! And i plan on keeping her till she dies
First Car, First Love
cameronkelly82, 06/21/2014
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
After months of reading the reviews on Edmunds my parents had enough and bought the Outback without my knowledge. I was mad for all of a second. I truly loved this car. Purchased at 135,000 I took it to 180,000 without a single problem be for it was murdered in a hit and run accident. Gas milage averaged 23 mpg's consistently. I had the joy of taking it to the snow ALOT, and not a single problem. If this car didn't get hit I would be giving it to my kids (I'm 21). A great first car the roof racks are great for surfboards, the seats lay flat for the snowboards, Mt. Bikes, Skimboards, dogs, and naps if you lay diagonally. If you have the chance this is a great first car!
As reliable as death and taxes
denisen, 07/28/2004
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My third Subaru. The all wheel drive is a dream. If you mess up and go around a corner too fast in the rain, this car holds on to the ground like it has CLAWS. Short of recklessness, it just does not skid. We bought it used with 30K miles and have put 15K more on it. It has only had routine maintainance (includidng new belts) and it has never faltered. With it's styling my friends thought it was new, not six years old! I guess that's good, because I'll be driving it for many more years. A little too much road noise is it's only fault.
Loved my Suby
W Baker, 02/02/2016
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my OBS from the original owner with about 75k on it. I got a super deal but had to do a little body work on it. Never had any major problems. I did fix a small transmission fluid leak by replacing the pan gasket. I did some routine maintenance. My car ran smooth as silk and shifted smooth also. I wish I still had it but unfortunately it was totaled in a wreck @ 89k. I owned it almost 5 years and it was It is probably the best car I had ever owned. I was hoping to find another to swap my engine over but ended up parting it out.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Subaru Impreza built to last
yomom, 07/16/2007
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My husband, who is absolutely not into cars at all, who wouldn't know a ping from a thump, and who therefore could conceivably really run a car into the ground without even knowing it, has been driving this vehicle for 11 years now completely problem free. I make sure that all the regular maintenance is up to date, so that does help, but seriously, I think this is a super-car, to have survived this long this well. Utterly great in snow, and we're in a snow-belt area, so we really know. Fantastic car.
Winter wonderful
scott120, 01/29/2009
1998 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Most of the year this car is a reliable, economical smart choice, but every time it snows it becomes one of the best cars on the road. The all manual control (no traction control, no ABS) feels fantastic, it's still stable but really playful.
Wheel Bearings
Ian Tummon, 06/04/2005
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought used with 37,000 miles, left rear wheel bearings have been replaced twice. The Subaru dealer did not change belts as specified in the user's manual. Nonetheless, the car has done well in Minnesota winter driving. Some rust left rear. Intermittent warning light Airbags
"Fun in the Snow"
M.Pascale, 04/07/2003
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Until i purchased this vehicle, i was petrified to drive in the snow! What a delight and relief to know that my impreza has the ability to get me through anything a tough northeast winter sends my way!!! My confidence level has improved a thousand percent!!!
My ScoobyRoo
Matt, 08/10/2008
1998 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru and I am extremely satisfied with it. I bought the car with 145K but with a rebuilt engine and it has never given me problems at all. the cars solid frame and design just make it own the road and not let go no matter how hard you try. the car is amazing and i plan on keeping it for a very long time. She's 10 years old but still races like a champ.
My First
wickedawsome7, 04/30/2013
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car to commute me around. I bought it after saving up a little money(600). Once I got past the body repairs, it ran like a top. It has been amazing through the New England weather even without anti-lock brakes. The major issue is that cars of this time have issues where they rust in the rear wheels. I think the previous owners must have gone off-roading. the only major scare I have had is replacing the speedometer sensor, and replacing the radiator cap(my mechanic thought it was the was the engine gasket, I almost junked the car.) I love this car and I will run it into the ground.
Great car!
baldcherub, 06/27/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a great car for any type of driving! Must get it with 5 spd manual. The handling is PHENOMENAL! Just read the edmunds reviews. Gas milleage is great and the sound of the boxer engine is very unique.
My Impreza
Dag Saunders, 05/04/2004
1998 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has been a winner from day 1. I am most impressed by the extreme stability at high speeds. The faster she goes the tighter she holds the road. The all-wheel-drive system is a gem and should be adopted by all cars on the road. This is a well engineered and well built automobile that Subaru can be very proud of.
More power Scottie
Thompson, 03/27/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 6 people found this review helpful
Underpowered. Okay on 2 lane highways, but too slow on pickup to pass easily on one lane highways and country roads. Very uncomfortable on drives over 2 hours. Seats need some more foam. Handling is fantastic and AWD is great in snow and ice and slush.
not built for backroads
Matteo, 04/11/2002
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've replaced the axle three times. all the mechanics have told me it's a comon problem of the Outback Sport. Out where I live asphault covers only a small percentage of the terraine. I'm not going four wheeling with the thing, but it is exposed to terrain that has seriously messed it up. Other than that though the car has been great. It's fun to drive. It's the right size for me. It's got a great engine. I'm now selling the thing, but only because of the axles. If that hadn't been the case I probably would have been able to keep this car for at least 50,000 more miles.
My little red wagon.
Mark Paquin, 12/19/2009
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car last year. It had an exhaust leak and some rust. It lasted me a year before it started having more problems. The CV shafts gave on the right side, the entire exhaust system needs replacing, and the driver's side window stopped working. The floor carpeting seemed to be falling apart. Yet, despite these problems, it runs fine and deals with any weather like a pro. I wish I could afford to fix it. I drove it through the NH Ice Storm last year with no problems whatsoever.
have owned for 13 years
gabrielle sChechter, 01/23/2010
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Original owner. Car has 100k miles and have had minimal issues. Replaced tires. Biggest expense had to replace axles several years ago. Normal repairs over the years, brakes, clutch etc... Drive is fun. Mileage ok. Great in the snow. Keep on thinking of getting a new car, but this car keeps working just fine.
Very Durable Cat
akg, 03/05/2010
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my impreza for 13 years and have had only a few problems. Currently there is an air-flow sensor issue which shuts the car down without warning - dangerous! The car handles perfectly in snow and gets surprisingly good gas mileage. I won't buy another Subaru due to initial costs - very expensive cars when compared to others in similar market.
Tough Car!
WhiteWind, 07/06/2002
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very tough little car! Goes anywhere, does just about anything in all weather including severe snow and ice storms. Been there, done that many times! Rides a tad hard on long trips over 100 miles. Excellent for zipping around town on errands or deliveries and stuff. Very reliable car! Next time I would go for the slightly larger variety (Legacy) because of my size (6'1" 245lbs) but if it was the only size available I would buy it again.
My Little Green Sub
Rolodex, 01/21/2003
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my little subaru, it is a great first car for me. It out handles just about anything i race against. However i usually get wasted off the line because of the low amount of horses it has under the hood. I think it is a great car for a small family or even a single guy like myself. I will have my subaru until it dies on me which might be a while with the way it has been going for me. It takes turns on a dime, and the AWD is nice in the rainy weather that we have here in the Northwest. I would suggest this car to anyone that wants a smaller vehicle that can handle well and be dependable.
A fun-to-drive wagon
bob1701a, 01/29/2003
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Durable/reliable/fun to drive. Repair/maintenance costs about average.
What a great little car!
roffle, 07/13/2003
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
As a first-car-owner, I guess I don't have much to compare it to, but my little Impreza is a great car, especially considering what I paid. Very comfortable drive position, leather steering wheel, very accessible instrument panel, except the cup holder. It's straight-line performance is adequate, a little better since I added a cold air intake, but its cornering capabilities are limitless, especially with my strut bar. This economy 5-door wagon hugs turns like they're going out of style. AWD is awesome, snow means nothing anymore.
A 100K Shay
jake3_14, 06/28/2005
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
In the poem "The 100-Year Shay," a legendary horse-drawn sled performs perfectly for a century, then disintegrates. Similarly, my Outback Sport performed flawlessly for 100K miles, then required replacement of ALL the major seals, the steering rack, and cam cover caps, repainting and clearcoating of the hood scoop and vents, in addition to the normal 100K service, to the tune of $2650, half the Edmunds private-party resale value. Shame on Subaru.
115,000
Tjack, 08/26/2005
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had very good luck with my Outback Sport purchased new. Had to replace the rack and pinion and other minor repairs. Suggestion -- do not let anyone but dealer replace timing chain. Having trouble with vibration at idle last 10K that I don't like. Do not like the antilock brakes, they come on if braking and I go over a bump in the road, also come on at low speed hard braking where locking brakes would work better. Other than that, very reliable, fun to drive.
Outstanding
stisvx, 01/13/2004
1997 Subaru Impreza Brighton 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What can I say? It's a subaru. Doesn't get any better.
Best car for me
Hunter, 11/09/2005
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car to replace a 4WD and a very fuel economic Japanese car. It does both well, but obviously compromises come from both. Good fuel economy in the Impreza, but the AWD and 2.2 hinder it a bit. I'd rather have AWD and extra power than 2 extra miles per gallon. I average 24-28 or so. On regular gas, the 28 was highway miles at about 75mph avg and the tires aired up to about 34psi (fully loaded with gear mind you). The 24-26 mpg is combined city/highway driving with the tires at a bit more "cushy" 30psi. I've owned this car for 12,000 miles and have had it 8 months. The first week I did a 2500 mile road trip, the car was a blessing.
My Subaru
TAA's Car, 03/06/2004
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Never had a problem with the car. Just typical maintenace has been done. Battery replaced once since I have owned it.
Great ride!
geebee, 08/17/2006
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought used and added 60,000km in 16 months. Now have 228,000km (Aug '06) and still get GREAT fuel economy - 7.5l/100km on the highway. Really enjoy the road holding and performance. The engine can feel underpowered, but using the 5-speed well will get you around the twists pretty quickly. Very stable at highway speeds. Great commuter car.
My Impreza :)
Soleil, 05/23/2004
1997 Subaru Impreza L 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Althought my 97'impreza is my first car and I don't have much to compare to, this is truly a great car. I bought it used in the fall of 2003 and the only problem I had was that I had to replace the steering fluid container. The previous owner had no known major problems with it. This car is fun to drive and I know I'll have it for many more years to come.
Great Car
Soriano, 03/28/2007
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this New in 97'. Since then this car has been great for us. The only thing that ever broke was the water pump and the dealership replaced it since it was their fault and still under warranty. I just changed the clutch and the car will definitely go another 100,000. If you drive and accelerate slowly I've been getting upwards of 27 MPG. Not bad for an AWD car with a lot of weight added to it because of the rear drive axle. Its a zippy little car and I love driving it. Subaru's are great. This one is awesome in the snow. I would rather drive this than my wifes Honda CR-V. I change the oil every 5000 and use high life oil since the car is getting up in miles. Great Car.
My Tricked out Scooby
WesMan, 07/06/2003
1997 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Awesome car!! There are plenty of mods that can be done for someone who is looking to trick their Subaru out. I have chrome rims/altezza's/spoiler/system/exhaust etc on mine. I'm a fast driving teen and this car can handle a beating.
feel confident.
satisfied, 06/20/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent car, vast improvement over my previous experience with lemons (Pontiacs and Fords). Lesson learned: don't buy American, no matter how patriotic you may be in this day and age. Very reliable.
my outback sport
geo, 08/21/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
beware of faulty rear bearings. had to have the left and right rear bearings replaced 3 times on each side. brought the car in to 3 different dealers: walnut creek, carlson, and stevens creek, none of which knew what they were doing. bunch of morrons. apart from this one problem the car has been great to drive.
The super 165 horse Subaru
Robert Millsop, 10/20/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fun to drive. Driving this car was a pleasure, I had no problems with it.
OB Sport Rocks! (But now I want a Baja)
littlet, 08/28/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car, handles snow and ice beautifully. Never had any maintenance problems. Just had first brake job done at 75,000 miles.
Fun to drive!
Evil-Mastermind, 01/08/2003
1998 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my 98 Impreza 2.5RS. It's a blast to drive, and feels very solid on all sorts of terrain. The nastiest road becomes fun to drive, even in the rain. All wheel drive is an incredible bit of engineering, and you'll find out how cool it is the first time you take a corner. I've never had any engine trouble or mechanical problems of any sort, and I trust it to take me out to the middle of nowhere and get me back home safely. I strongly recommend the Impreza to anyone looking for a solid, fun car that's not a cookie-cutter version of everything else out there.
1998 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS
dvp560d, 02/07/2003
1998 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fast in the corners, but a little lacking on exit. It needs the new WRX's 2.0L turbo, albeit without its inherent ugliness. This is the best Impreza to date (excluding the WRX), especially in the styling department, but also in the handling department.
manual seeking
dunbar, 03/09/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
hello. I love my car But I brought used and they couldn't find a manual etc, etc,for it. where can I find one to buy? thank you steve dunbar
hunu
merwe, 03/25/2002
1998 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
good car
Not very good.
bud, 10/27/2002
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Subaru cars have become very expensive to fix. Around 76,000 miles, alot had to be replaced (Oil pump, clutch, brakes...) After owning three, this will most likely be my last, I feel that Subaru has cut alot of corners and there are alot better built cars out there.
Bummed!
Courtney, 02/11/2007
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Having read all of these reviews, I'd have to say that the car isn't being represented in full. For all the prospective buyers, keep in mind that this car requires A LOT of money, regularly. I bought this car a year ago with only 60,000 miles on it. I thought it was a blessing. About 6,000 miles into it, I began to smell burning oil. I brought it into the mechanic and it had some severe oil leaking and axle problems. Apparently oil leaks are only too common among Subarus and this was a major disappointment. I was surely not planning on spending $1000 every six months or so. My mechanic said that hopefully it will go another 12 months before another oil leak happens. Think about it. GOOD LUCK.
Not very good.
Bud, 10/27/2002
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Subaru cars have become very expensive to fix. Around 76,000 miles, alot had to be replaced (Oil pump, clutch, brakes...) After owning three, this will most likely be my last, I feel that Subaru has cut alot of corners and there are alot better built cars out there.
couldn't be better
jim3328, 07/24/2002
1997 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I USE THIS CAR FOR FLAG CAR WORK. I BOUGHT THIS CAR OCT. 99. IT HAD 32000 MILES. IT NOW HAS 311000 MILES. THAT ALONE SHOULD TELL YOU SOMETHING ABOUT THE RELIABILITY. THE ONLY REPAIRS ON THIS CAR HAVE BEEN AS FOLLOWS, ONE UNIVERSAL JOINT, ONE OIL SEAL, AND THE THIRD BRAKE LIGHT. I AM NOW SELLING THE CAR, BECUASE IT HAS A FIVE SPEED AND I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WITH MY LEFT LEG AND HAVE TROUBLE DRIVING IT NOW BECAUSE OF MY LEG.