Competition
At $44,995, the spec.B measures up to a few heavy-hitting sport sedans. Let's see what we can also buy for the same amount of money.
The Acura TSX with NAVI costs $39,000, but doesn't come with all-wheel drive, and its 205-hp engine isn't as muscular as the spec.B's. The Audi A4 3.2 Quattro lists for $49,500. Add the navigation system ($2,900), which requires you also choose the Convenience Package ($700), and the tab climbs to $53,100.
The BMW 328xi costs $43,600. Add the Sport Package ($2,300), the Premium Package ($4,300) and the navigation system ($2,900), which totals $53,100. The brand-new Cadillac CTS4 costs $43,225. Add the surround sound system with navigation ($3,900) and the power sunroof ($1,660), and the car ends up costing $48,785, but you can't get all-wheel drive and a manual transmission together.
The Infiniti G35x costs $43,540, but to get a navigation system, you must choose the High Technology Package ($3,900), which requires you also choose the Premium Package ($3,350). Total is $50,790, and you can't get it with a stick. Finally, the Lexus IS 250 AWD costs $41,150, but if you want a navigation system, you have to opt for the Luxury with Navigation Package, which costs $12,900. The invoice skyrockets to $54,050, a manual is not available, and it's a little low on power compared to the Subaru.
Conclusion
Of course, the Legacy 2.5GT spec.B lacks the prestige and reputation of all of the above. However, it makes up for nicely with a fun-to-drive character, blistering performance, and razor-sharp handling. You can almost consider the spec.B to be a generic-brand based on a BMW, since it can basically do what a 328xi can but at a lower price.
As such, the spec.B is a great car. But for that price, it doesn't feel as expensive as the competition listed above. I would make a few sacrifices and save almost $5,000 by downgrading to the regular 2.5GT.
Impressive performance
Sweet handling
Comfortable seats
Tight cockpit
High price
Choice of only two colors
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
At $44,995, the spec.B measures up to a few heavy-hitting sport sedans. Let's see what we can also buy for the same amount of money.
The Acura TSX with NAVI costs $39,000, but doesn't come with all-wheel drive, and its 205-hp engine isn't as muscular as the spec.B's. The Audi A4 3.2 Quattro lists for $49,500. Add the navigation system ($2,900), which requires you also choose the Convenience Package ($700), and the tab climbs to $53,100.
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| The spec.B has nothing to be ashamed of when compared to the competition. |
The BMW 328xi costs $43,600. Add the Sport Package ($2,300), the Premium Package ($4,300) and the navigation system ($2,900), which totals $53,100. The brand-new Cadillac CTS4 costs $43,225. Add the surround sound system with navigation ($3,900) and the power sunroof ($1,660), and the car ends up costing $48,785, but you can't get all-wheel drive and a manual transmission together.
The Infiniti G35x costs $43,540, but to get a navigation system, you must choose the High Technology Package ($3,900), which requires you also choose the Premium Package ($3,350). Total is $50,790, and you can't get it with a stick. Finally, the Lexus IS 250 AWD costs $41,150, but if you want a navigation system, you have to opt for the Luxury with Navigation Package, which costs $12,900. The invoice skyrockets to $54,050, a manual is not available, and it's a little low on power compared to the Subaru.
Conclusion
Of course, the Legacy 2.5GT spec.B lacks the prestige and reputation of all of the above. However, it makes up for nicely with a fun-to-drive character, blistering performance, and razor-sharp handling. You can almost consider the spec.B to be a generic-brand based on a BMW, since it can basically do what a 328xi can but at a lower price.
As such, the spec.B is a great car. But for that price, it doesn't feel as expensive as the competition listed above. I would make a few sacrifices and save almost $5,000 by downgrading to the regular 2.5GT.
 |
Sweet handling
Comfortable seats
 |
High price
Choice of only two colors
 |
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
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