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Old 11-25-2003, 01:04 PM   #1
Shikamaru
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Default Thinking of buying a 1988 Subaru RX Turbo

Guy wants 1800 for it, he says he just replaced the brakes and clutch. Is there anything that I should look for on this particular model that would cause me serious problems down the road. Looking to buy this to be a fun winter beater. Thanks.
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Old 11-25-2003, 01:38 PM   #2
rallykeith
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Look for rust on what I would call the frame rails behind the front wheels. Also look for rust in the rear wheel arches. Other than that there isn't really anything to special. Start it and listen for overly loud lifters and look for signs of it burning oil. That's about all I can think of right now.

Keith
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Old 11-25-2003, 03:40 PM   #3
Flowmastered87GL
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Look for overheating... being a turbo it could have a blown head gasket. Hoses tend to cook after afew years see if they are soft or if they are hard and brittle. CV's good? Does the dual range tranny and diff lock work properly?
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Old 11-26-2003, 12:02 PM   #4
Shikamaru
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here's a pic
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Old 11-26-2003, 04:57 PM   #5
Flowmastered87GL
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The body looks pretty good, but on a turbo subaru... brakes and clutch are only worth so much. Without ENGINE records I wouldnt give a whole bunch for it. If it runs and drives halfway decent, maybe 1500 would work, but not a whole bunch more IMHO

If he can prove the engine is well maintained then 1800 isnt absurd as RX's are fairly rare. And awesome cars too
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Old 11-29-2003, 12:35 AM   #6
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I really want one of these...
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Old 11-30-2003, 11:08 PM   #7
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Did you buy the car?
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Old 12-01-2003, 12:49 AM   #8
DerFahrer
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I don't think I would give $1800 for that, but that is an RX, and a freak like me who can't stand to see a beautiful rare Subie die off would probably find a way to get my hands on it
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Old 12-05-2003, 12:38 PM   #9
Shikamaru
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No I have since opted to get an AccessECU Stage 1 from Cobb and install some gauges in my WRX. I really wanted that car though just wasn't the right time.
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Old 12-05-2003, 03:36 PM   #10
rallykeith
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Can you give us some more info on it incase we are interested?

Thanks
Keith
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Old 12-22-2003, 08:56 AM   #11
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Quote:
Originally posted by rallykeith
Can you give us some more info on it incase we are interested?

Thanks
Keith


Please..
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Old 01-29-2004, 10:38 PM   #12
wombatsauce
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Default Seriously.

That was my first car, a white '88 RX. Some a hole totalled it within 3 days. I would pick that up for $1500 in an instant if not for sentimental value alone.

-Jacob
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Old 02-01-2004, 08:10 AM   #13
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How can I get ahold of the guy?

Mark,
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Old 02-01-2004, 02:51 PM   #14
Flowmastered87GL
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There is an 87 RX in Portland OR for 1250
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Old 02-01-2004, 03:46 PM   #15
Shikamaru
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sorry totally forgot about this thread, I will try and see if I can find the ad and if the dude is still selling it.
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Old 02-11-2004, 11:57 AM   #16
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Nice looking at that.

I owned a 1985 RX. It was an awesome car. Red with racing stripes.

The only issues I had:
1) broke timing belt -- replaced and no damage to engine/valvetrain
2) worn head gasket
3) radiator plastic parts broke and I had to have radiator replaced

I also lost it due to it being totaled by someone. I was t-boned making a left turn on arrow and the %#@%#!^ in the opposing traffic ran the red light.
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Old 02-12-2004, 08:13 AM   #17
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Quote:
Originally posted by Shikamaru
sorry totally forgot about this thread, I will try and see if I can find the ad and if the dude is still selling it.

Ok, if it's still there I am still interested.
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Old 02-15-2004, 07:25 AM   #18
Shikamaru
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I've looked all over for the original ad, I believe the individual must of already sold the car. Sorry
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Old 02-20-2004, 07:44 AM   #19
Tkacik
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Quote:
Originally posted by Shikamaru
I've looked all over for the original ad, I believe the individual must of already sold the car. Sorry

Uggh. Thanks anyways.
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Old 03-12-2004, 08:35 PM   #20
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i like the rx, im building up a track car out of one. i just need to get it running again, i think i have a loose wire somewhere under the dash. but its a fun little car, i wouldnt mind having one in drivable condition.
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Old 03-18-2004, 03:08 AM   #21
isr96
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i bought a 85 rx for $150, condition was ok i guess but it drives so whatever. bought it from a friend who was trying to get rid of it.
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Old 01-09-2019, 08:42 PM   #22
1988subaruRX
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Default Anybody looking for a parts car?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Tkacik View Post
I really want one of these...
Any chance your still looking?
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Old 01-19-2019, 01:04 PM   #23
Flowmastered87GL
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 1988subaruRX View Post
Any chance your still looking?
15+ years later I kinda doubt it
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Old 04-03-2021, 12:11 AM   #24
alkorahil
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Flowmastered87GL View Post
15+ years later I kinda doubt it


I am looking
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Old 04-08-2021, 10:23 AM   #25
lisprost
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Default Pic

Quote:
Originally Posted by Shikamaru View Post


here's a pic
Where's the pic?
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