Looking for 1st gen OBW or Forester - Educate me

[Pint]

I'm beginning to look for a 1st generation Outback Wagon or Forester as a daily driver. Only $3-$4k to spend. Any particular years, models or features to watch out for? I've heard about head gasket issues, what else? Automatic or stick is fine. It will see 25K per year. I can do most basic PM work, fluids, plugs, brakes, etc. Is it possible to find a decent driver for $3-$4K? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[Kevin]

G'Day Pint & welcome.

Telling us your location would be helpful.

 

[Pint]

Oops...Colorado near Denver. I've not ruled out older Subies either. Seen a few nicely equipt 80's GL wagons.

 

[mr turbo]

G'day Pint & to ORS.

Regards
Mr Turbo

 

[carljwnc]

Howdy and Pint!!!

I don't know about the market out there, but seems like the better condition Foresters around here are more in the $5-6k range. Keep your eyes out, I don't think you have unreal expectations either. Head gaskets are an issue on pretty much all of the 2.5l engines, but especially up to '03.

Make sure you hook up with Smash81 and SubaCool for some off road adventures.

 

[Pint]

Looks like I may be inheriting a Jeep to drive until my son turns 16 next March. That gives me more time to save for my Subie as I do not want a loan. I'm hoping I will have $6-$7K by then. I assume I can get a pretty decent DD for that amount? Any thoughts?