I had a 2002 Impreza WRX and it was a great car!
From what I remember,
the transmissions were very weak (especially if you start modding) because AWD launches really workout the transmission.
The MY02-03 seats were horrid (hurt my back, later upgraded MY04+).
The driving position is nowhere as good as the SI, you sit high and reach low for the shifter and no armrest (necessity for me!)
The insurance is VERY HIGH check this out.
Quote:
Most expensive models to insure
1 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
2 Mercedes CL-Class
3 Dodge SRT-4
4 Subaru Impreza WRX
5 Jaguar XK (convertible)
6 Lexus IS 300
7 Honda S2000
8 Acura RSX
9 Nissan 350Z
10 Jaguar XJ
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If you read all that and still want a WRX, we must have the same ailment :). My advice is to find a 2006 model WRX because it was the first year they did a major overhaul to the engine by increasing displacement from 2.0L to 2.5L. This engine had huge potential because it was factory under rated and actually had huge amounts of torque (something like ~240lb/ft peak)