Build Cost Example: What is your plan?

[ScoobySnack818]

Lets look into the future here. Say the FFR 818 is complete and you love it, gotta have it, etc. You are planning your build. What does it involve? Approximate costs? And just to be the devil's advocate here- when you add it all up, what else could you get for that price?

***disclaimer*** these are not actual prices they are all theoretical pretend numbers. Consider this a fun fantasy excersise

Example:

818 Kit, including additional options (coupe/hard top model), tax, & shipping- $13,000
wrecked WRX but with low miles, great mechanicals, and decent interior- $7,500
a few go-fast bolt on parts- $2,000
a few creature comforts- $1,500
lightweight rims/tires- $1,200

Subtotal: $25,200
+ experience of building your dream car yourself- $priceless (sorry for the m*stercard pun)

VERSUS:

find a used sports car/baby exotic (elise?), or built car (k20 CRX?) on the internet someplace and tweak it to your needs? Or what about a straight-up track car purchased from grassroots motorsports forums?

I still think given the chance, I'd go for my very own 818 build. What about you?

-Justin

[Niburu]

Scooby I stole some of your stuff

818 Kit, including additional options (coupe/hard top model), tax, & shipping- $13,000

early WRX but with great mechanicals, and decent interior- $4,500
hopefully recoupe some of that on parting the rest of the vehicle

a set of racing seats and harnesses - $1500

lightweight rims/tires- $1,200 if the WRX doesn't already have something nice on it already

My one big option is if I find a donor with a blown engine for cheap I will drop a 20B in it.
(that's a 3 rotor motor folks)

[Mike N]

I built my Roadster when the kit was $10995, with options (powder coat, gauges, ceramic side pipes chrome roll bar etc...) it was just under $14000 from FFR. I owned the donor so no cost there but after rebuilding, upgrading the drivetrain, wheels, tires, and paint which I did myself I was over $25K on the road. A year later with further upgrades I was over $30K. Bottom line is that I think you will have to be very very diligent with keeping track of expenses and minimize any upgrades to stay much under $20K.

[Oppenheimer]

My one big option is if I find a donor with a blown engine for cheap I will drop a 20B in it.
(that's a 3 rotor motor folks)

Then maybe look for a regular Impreza donor, instead of WRX? Probably much cheaper. Might also be possible to use other Subie as donor, depending on donor parts list.

My plan is to build cheap, then upgrade later in steps. Basic 2.0 WRX donor, use the wheels and tires from the donor (or buy used). Resell unused donor parts, etc. Save the motor mods, or even motor rebuild, for later winter projects. The one thing I will be spending money on from the start is the roof (won't be building until that becomes an option).

Might have to also spring for aftermarket seats in order to fit in it (headroom).

I want heat, AC, decent dash. My plan will be to initially do only those extra cost things that can't be done (or are too difficult) later. Later I will swing back and upgrade.

[Xusia]

It's too far out for dollars, but I'm targeting less than $20k completed. IF it's within the budget, and they offer it, I'll get the "complete kit" so all I'll need in addition to that is an engine, which for me will be a later model year STI engine (EJ257 if I recall) coupled with the 5-speed transmission.

If a complete kit isn't in the build, I'll probably opt for an Impreza donor (with the required 5-speed transmission), and separately source the later model STI engine. This seems like it would be the cheaper way to go (and has a higher likelihood of getting a donor that hasn't been abused), but I'll also look at a WRX engine (or complete donor) with the STI turbo and tune as well.

Kit options will be limited to those items deemed necessary like a top, roll up windows, heating, and A/C.

If I need to cut something to stay within budget, I will most likely scale back on the engine - because I can always upgrade later

[skullandbones]

When I hear about cost of the roadster builds, I am still amazed how much can be spent. I still plan on spending under 23K without paint. So I can see how the 818 build could also spin out of control budgetwise. I think I included shipping and tax for the big items in my build so with all that, I think a reasonable and "nice" 818 would still come in under 20K. If it doesn't, it's not meeting the companies goal as an affordable alternative to the present offerings. JMO. WEK.

[Oppenheimer]

I think with the Roadster it is always the builders 'Dream Car', so the number of truely budget builds would always be low. But with the 818, it can much more of a 'car'. Something you just drive a lot. Yes, for many the 818 will be a dream car, no expenses spared. But I think there will be many more 818 budget builds than you'd see with any of the other current FFR offerings.

Throw in no-paint option, and budget potential is even higher (even paint Roadster yourself is costly). I think you will see a lot of 818 builds that are near the FFR target $15K.

[Xusia]

Right. If nothing else because if people have money to burn, they will probably opt for another option.

Also, to me, the 818 design goals are more aligned with either a daily driver or a less expensive track car. None of the other models are really suitable as a daily driver or all around car. Couple that use case (niche) with the low cost, and I do think you will see more budget builds than with FFR's other models.

[Kalstar]

Don't forget the sale of donor parts. I am building a GTM and doing what they said can't be done. Watch the budget close and look for the deals and the 15K will not out of the question, I would even veture to say 12K is possible.

[MuddyRoverRob]

I'm torn between the 818 and a coupe.

Being that I'm cheap I expect I can finish an 818 well under $20k
it will be cheaper to run (fuel wise) but the WRX donor will be more expensive.

The 65 coupe (with basic stock-ish 302 efi engine) doing it all myself should be very doable in the $25k range.
(I'm a small guy, the coupe will likely be reasonably roomy for me)
it will use more gas but the mustang donor will be much cheaper.

I suppose it depends whether you like wrecking yards or not.
with all new parts?? NO way!

If you refurb your own parts they are basically new and WAY cheaper.
I'll be going this way.

[skullandbones]

Oppenheimer,

I think you are right to a certain extent. I don't think the average builder is as well represented as the dream/over the top builds are, though. After all, the concept of the roadster was an affordable hot rod when they started (donor). So if you are totally right that puts me at the right side of the normal curve at under 25K. To tell you the truth, if I thought I was going to have to spend 30K on this build, it wouldn't be happening. Just like I wouldn't go out and buy a 50K production car. The roadster is a "dream" project for me but still within a realistic cost point. By the way, I plan on driving as a daily driver. Here in the Valley of the Sun, that is 350 rainless days/yr.

To stay on point, I think I would aim for the under 15K budget for the 818 just to see if I could and with pre-coloured panels it is really feasible. You could always upgrade the engine for phase II. I just think the 27K estimate at the top is high on average. Maybe we agree on that. See you later. WEK.

[thomas colina]

What ever you think it might cost, Double it!

[Kalstar]

What ever you think it might cost, Double it!

Then divide by 2.

[Ray]

When we started with our Roadster, I was told to estimate every cost, double it, look at it, then ball it up and throw it away. And, to never, never ever think about it again.

Ray

[scartaan]

My donor- 2006 WRX 75000 miles driven from Copart Indianapolis to Denver with minimal problems- @$4500.

[RM1SepEx]

Donors are out there at very good prices, kids crash donors every day! No reason why you can't come close to the $15k mark with non boosted examples available for $2000 or less...

My plan is to go with a low mileage wrx and the sub $5000 example above is a great example
add the kit and allow $5000 for "upgrades"

Result $20,000 for a sweet one of a kind ride...

the biggest question, which vehicle needs to go to make room?

[Xusia]

What ever you think it might cost, Double it!

That equals zero, then, because I wouldn't be building it. If I can't make a running car for less than $20, it isn't happening...

[Psay]

The cost of the build will be largely down to discipline and what you want.

It is very easy to buy new parts instead of donor, get the dash clad in leather, get the engine blueprinted with a few performance mods, high spec wheels and tyres etc. and generally do the best you can.

I am a mechanical design engineer and cannot accept anything that is not perfection. A few years ago I built a 356 kit that cost me the best part of £35k (~$55k) and I see the 818 exceeding this. To me the cost is not important it is finding a great looking car (which in the kit car industry is in my opinion limited to two at present the Ultima GTR and the 818) and building it the exact way you want.

I am in discussions with two companys here in England, RPE regarding a small V8 (88kg and 430bhp) and Quaife regarding a sequential gearbox with paddle shift. These two alone are in the region of £35k. Not saying I will go this route but this is what I want to do at present. I plan on visiting F5 later this year to hopefully see the car in person and from that will decide on the exact route I will take. In the mean time I am enjoying reseaching all the marvelous options available.

[PhyrraM]

When we started with our Roadster, I was told to estimate every cost, double it, look at it, then ball it up and throw it away. And, to never, never ever think about it again.

Yep, that is considered the norm.

I think Dave is trying to change that perception and hone FFRs skill set with the 818. With the info that has been shared up to this point, it certainly seems like FFR is trying to improve upon thier original "Single Donor" concept. As long as the whole no-paint-or-bodywork thing pans out, I see no reason why the majority of builds won't stay on budget - excluding custom non-Subaru-parts work.

[Draco-REX]

My 818 will cost what it costs.. I'm sure it will cruise on past the $15K base target.

But I'm tossing around the idea of building a base 818 for the experience and then selling it for close to cost before building my 818. If I do that, I'll be trying to stay as close to the $15K target as possible.

[treadstone]

Is anyone else considering using a Cosworth engine, and race interior (i.e. 5-point harnesses, Sparco seat, and Sparco steering wheel)?
I have no idea what the cost of such a build might be, but that is what I am looking to do. It would also be helpful to know if there will be a complete kit available, so that a donor is not needed, and what this would cost.

[MuddyRoverRob]

There are definitely two camps here!

The cost is no object and the how cheap can I do it crowds...

BOTH approaches are legitimate and should make for interesting diversity in the finished products.

[305mouse]

A Cosworth engine is gonna run you $9000. I wouldn't use one ever, what am I going to use that for? I'll build one and tune it for half that cost.

[Oppenheimer]

There are definitely two camps here!

The cost is no object and the how cheap can I do it crowds...


Yes. I would call them 'Dream Car' camp and 'Fun Car' camp. The Dream Car guys can't help wanting $9K engines and endangered species dash fur. And that is very cool. They will come up with wild ideas, and wild mods, that will act as a 'halo effect', bringing more attention, and more builders, to FFR.

The Fun Car guys would love to be able to do some of the Dream Car stuff, but its just not realistic. They just realize their limitations and are OK with them. They realize that even a stock WRX 818 build will be one outragious ride. They would trade more usability for more performance, more affordability for more 'some day'. for them, more affordable = more possible.

My only hope is that none of the Dream Car guys abandon their plan to build an 818 if it turns out some aspect of their dream is too costly, too outragious, or too unrealistic. I'm thinking of the guy that wants to build a Roadster, but only if he can put a real 427 in it, so he ends up never doing it. Build an 818 anyway, even if its missing some piece of your dream.

[MuddyRoverRob]

That is a good explaination!

To a lot of us "fun car" guys it's STILL a dream car!
Absolutely that's the divide

I bet that most "fun" builds will add a little something extra, and even the "dream car" builds have budgets most of the time.

Whether my build ends up being an 818 or a coupe I'll add sound/heat insulation, carpets, electric windows, heat and AC, cruise, etc
I'll just do it using good used parts rather than multiple thousand dollar aftermarket systems.

I'll do the bodywork and paint it myself at the local u-wrench (ours has a paint booth).
Never done that before, should be fun!

[Psay]

The 818 is not my dream car, that is in my garage right now.

To me the 818 is about building something unique, using the skills I use in my day job to create a truly individual car. I am not interested in buying a box of bits and bolting it all together. I want to make, modify etc. various aspects of this car.

There are rumours of a new Ultima coming soon so no matter how good the 818 is I will wait for the Ultima and make my decision then.

Until the 818 is finalised all we can do is dream.

[RossLH]

My plan for an 818 build throws FFR's $15K goal right out the window. Built EJ207 + PPG dogbox.....that should run me out around $15K by itself.

[Silvertop]

Yes. I would call them 'Dream Car' camp and 'Fun Car' camp. The Dream Car guys can't help wanting $9K engines and endangered species dash fur. And that is very cool. They will come up with wild ideas, and wild mods, that will act as a 'halo effect', bringing more attention, and more builders, to FFR.

The Fun Car guys would love to be able to do some of the Dream Car stuff, but its just not realistic. They just realize their limitations and are OK with them. They realize that even a stock WRX 818 build will be one outragious ride. They would trade more usability for more performance, more affordability for more 'some day'. for them, more affordable = more possible........



I guess I'm basically in the "Fun Car" camp, though for me it will be a Dream Car too. It's just something I've always wanted to do. I'll build mine on the cheap, probably using stock wheels and seats, and as many donor car components as possible. Donor car may be a WRX or it may an RS Impreza -- just depends on what I find. If it's a WRX, I'll install it pretty much stock with a bolt-on or two and an ECU tune. If it's an NA Impreza, I'll add cams, 4-2-1 equal length headers, and a mild ECU tune, sufficient to get it to 200 HP or so.

I will want to add in Heat/AC, a stereo, and I will definitely spring for the extra cost of a top. That's a gotta have. But the goal will be to keep the total cost under $20K. Not needing to paint will definitely help. I just hope they come up with some acceptable colors............

[Benji]

There are rumours of a new Ultima coming soon so no matter how good the 818 is I will wait for the Ultima and make my decision then.

I'm sorry, I have to call bull until some evidence is provided, don't be offended.

[Twinspool]

I'm guilty of looking at exotic engine combos and transmission gears too, but a BIG part of the appeal of this car is that *I* will build it. Therefore there's no mystery as to what it will take to re-do something after it's assembled. Rather than shop for all the aftermarket goodies now, I want to get it on the road and then decide what it may benefit from. I'm guessing that it will take far less than some people think to make it stupid-fun and potent.

[Xusia]

I think "stupid-fun and potent" will come right out of the "box!"

[fateo66]

Yes. I would call them 'Dream Car' camp and 'Fun Car' camp. The Dream Car guys can't help wanting $9K engines and endangered species dash fur. And that is very cool. They will come up with wild ideas, and wild mods, that will act as a 'halo effect', bringing more attention, and more builders, to FFR.

The Fun Car guys would love to be able to do some of the Dream Car stuff, but its just not realistic. They just realize their limitations and are OK with them. They realize that even a stock WRX 818 build will be one outragious ride. They would trade more usability for more performance, more affordability for more 'some day'. for them, more affordable = more possible.

My only hope is that none of the Dream Car guys abandon their plan to build an 818 if it turns out some aspect of their dream is too costly, too outragious, or too unrealistic. I'm thinking of the guy that wants to build a Roadster, but only if he can put a real 427 in it, so he ends up never doing it. Build an 818 anyway, even if its missing some piece of your dream.

I think there will be another "camp" coming out of the wood works once the car is released. I think there is a decent amount of subie nuts out there that already have all the donor stuff and will have the ability to dream big and do so for very cheap. If you pay attention to the people that are posting there are some very big names in the Subaru world poking around that don't make them selves known because they have a reputation to keep. I feel that some of the more loud mouth people on here know very little about the Subaru drivetrain and repeatably give out false information and I see alot of people taking that as fact.

Anyways I for one plan on having a 500HP 818 for under 15k done and said. But that is because I already have everything to get me there plus the suspension and drive train parts to match. Perhaps I'm just in the "Dream camp" though

[MuddyRoverRob]

Fate066...

Not at all!
As I see it as you are in the "fun car camp" for the most part because you are using "used" or at least deeply discounted bits!

That you can find 500 thrifty horsepower is AWESOME! (mine would be a stock WRX powerplant)

My 'thriftiness' will NOT diminish the dream of building my own toy car in any way whatsoever!

[mn_vette]

Looking throuth some of the options for the other factory 5 cars, here's what I expect to spend on just the kit.

Powder Coated Chassis - $399
Catalytic converters: (or other exhaust options) $399
Modern Gauges: Autometer Ultra-Lite Gauges More Info> $580
GTM Heating/ Air Conditioning Kit More Info> $1,350
Base Kit 9,999
Shipping: ??
Taxes @ 6%: $763

Total: ~13,500 + shipping to where you are in the country

Donor: ~5k

Extra upgrades like sound dampening and other: $1,000


So $20k might not be a bad estimate if you can get some cash back from the donor part sales. But until we get a real pricing this is all just speculative. If there is going to be a different price for the coupe and additional other costs that may add a few grand more on top of that.

[Niburu]

and please for heaven sakes don't factor in your personal time as a cost for the build, it's called freetime for a reason

[16g-95gsx]

Why do you feel that you NEED a donor? An EJ20tt engine with a 5spd trans can be had for 1000 bucks shipped. The rest of the donor components can be bought almost individually and come out far cheaper than some of the numbers I've seen. If the "donor" requirements are anything like a GTM, I don't see the real point in buying a whole car. Hubs, axles, control arms, steering wheel, etc can all be bought through other sources.

And I don't want to hear about a valley of death, if you have zero knowledge of how to solve a problem like that and just want a straight packaged solution at your door then obviously your build would run more.

[PhyrraM]

I agree that everything can be sourced outside of a donor. However, Don't forget all the little things that make up an entire car. FFR is known to use ALOT of lesser parts the donor car that you usually don't think of. Things like bolts, screws, hinges, brackets, trays, mounts, etc....in addition to the complete wiring harness (with mods).

Until a final list is produced, I feel very confident hypothesising that a donor will be much more cost effective in the long run - even if your planning on fully rebuilding or customizing all the major components. All of those $2, $5, and $25 dollar "small things" will eventually add up to $$$ if you can't run out to a donor to pull 'n paint them.

Donor NEEDED? Of course not.

Advised? Very likely.

[Oppenheimer]

All of those $2, $5, and $25 dollar "small things" will eventually add up to $$$ if you can't run out to a donor to pull 'n paint them.

Donor NEEDED? Of course not.

Advised? Very likely.

I agree with this. But as our Mitsu-nomenclature named friend points out a compelte drivetrain is cost effective. So I'm thinking some might be able to get a rolled donor, blown motor, whatever, very cheap, then source the drivetrain seperately. You got all the nickle & dime bolts and such from the donor, with no need to worry about mileage, drivetrain condition, etc. then buy a known good drivetrain.

I think there will be lots of creative ways to save coin on donor with this kit.

[spaceywilly]

I already own a donor car, and I'm a cheap *******, so I'm hoping to keep it to just the cost of the kit. My main issue is what I want to get to replace the wrx. And also getting a house with a garage would probably be step 1. By the time I take care of those two things I doubt I'll be able to afford to go crazy on the build.

[Niburu]

My main issue is what I want to get to replace the wrx.

Base Forester with the Alloy Wheel Package in manual trans.
Just quick enough to get out of it's own way, not really fast enought to generate tickets, plus you have small crossover invisibility to police - trust me on this.

[bromikl]

I'd like to see a EH20tt w/ trans for $1,000 shipped. That would be a neat trick. And would that include the alternator, intake, and all those other crazy bits that come with a donor? I looked for months for a rebuilt EJ22 before I paid $950 shipped. No alternator, no P/S pump, no throttle body; I even had to re-use the my oil pan and timing belt covers. Sure, you might get the deal of the century, but not all of us have the connections to do that.

[PhyrraM]

Base Forester with the Alloy Wheel Package in manual trans.
Just quick enough to get out of it's own way, not really fast enought to generate tickets, plus you have small crossover invisibility to police - trust me on this.

I agree. Something very attractive about a first gen Forester with the alloys and foglights. I'd add one to my stable in a heartbeat if I ran across one at a good price.

[PhyrraM]

I'd like to see a EH20tt w/ trans for $1,000 shipped. ........... Sure, you might get the deal of the century, but not all of us have the connections to do that.

I haven't looked in a while, but a few years ago you could pick them up from 3 different importers on Ebay. Most engines went for about $700 and many "packages" (engine, trans and wiring harness/ECU) went for about $1000. Those were before shipping, of course.

edit: A quick scan of eBay now and it looks like the going prices are about $1200-$1700 for engine/trans/harness/ECU packages.

I once picked up a '93 WRX motor, automatic trans, halfshafts, and complete car harness/ECU for a $350 bid (+local pickup). That WAS a once in a lifetime, but even at that - I was the only bidder.

[Frank818]

This is what I aim for at the moment (350-400rwhp, around 40k for the whole build, but after some discussions, I think I'll reduce that to 325whp):

818 Kit $9 990
Crate shipping $695
Powder coated chassis to get the rollbar coated $399
Carbon fiber front splitter $399
Carbon fiber rocker panel extensions (2) $396
Carbon fiber rear diffuser $275
Large road race carbon fiber wing $1 499
Seats $1 000
Steering Wheel + hub $200
Shifter knob $50
Suede interior $1000
Donor parts kit (818donors.com) (keep ABS sensor wheel and sensors, need alu control arms) $5 000
Performance upgrades $5 000
Front LSD $500
Air-to-water cooler $1000
Gauges A/F - Fuel - Oil Pressure - Oil Temp - Speedo - Tacho 3" - Boost - Volt - Water Temp $1 077
Wheels $1 800
Tires (estimated 250 each) $1 000
Heater $1 350
HID headlights $300
Other LED lighting $250
ISIS™ 3-CELL Starter Kit Part Number: ISIS3BOXZ (same part number as GTM?) $1 553
ISIS™ inTOUCH™ MAX Double DIN Touch Screen Part Number: ISISINTXZ $1 724
Racelogic Traction control kit $1 130
Paint $3 500
Canada Transport Engineer to certify the build/car as road legal $500
[/LIST]

[Mitch Wright]

My budget for my 818R is $28,500 to get the car track worthy running a 06-07 WRX drivetrain that is basically stock. What is nice is I have a year to gather the parts and find a donor before may chassis will be ready. I actually think I can build it for less.

[Nuul]

I'm waiting on the 818C so the price on the kit remains to be seen. I'm already way over what I had planned to spend because I have "while I'm in there I might as well" syndrome. This is what I have in it so far:

2003 WRX wagon donor (vf34, aftermarket UP/DP and some other odds n' ends) - $3000
New EJ257 short block - $1600 (eBay from Heuberger in CO)
New OEM water pump, master rebuild gasket kit, thermostat, water pump, timing belt & tensioner, 10mm oil pump & a few OEM oil filters - $1000
Used 2004 STI heads - $500 + $40 for two bent valves
TiC TGV deletes from NASIOC group buy (also included Motive EBCS) - $135
DEI Titanium exhaust wrap - $50
Iridium IX plugs - $30
AEM Uego wideband - $150
Kinugawa fuel rails - $70

I still need to buy some fuel lines and a fuel pressure regulator to convert to a parallel setup. I also want to change the '06 WRX injectors I have to some 1000cc in case I want to go E85 in the future.

[Frank818]

Don't forget to buy the fuel itself to make that run. :)

[dbjr63]

i look forward to see people list their detail cost spreadsheets of their 818 builds.

i think using new parts and making it nice for daily driving you will be around 25K - 30K.

[metalmaker12]

I have a list going and I am at 23k with the kit paid and parts

[PhyrraM]

I was always told to NEVER add up the costs on projects like this. I was always told it's depressing.

[Frank818]

It is depressing! Until you finally complete your project and drive it often. :)
Well, at least it helps forget about the previous depression. :)
Then comes the next one when you decide to upgrade your project! But let's not talk about this. :)

[Xusia]

Right now my cost projections are at $23k, and I expect the final total to come out a bit higher (unknowns). My "budget" was $20k, and I REALLY wanted to stick to that, but it's become obvious I can't get what I want for that price. So I can either spend a bit more, or be potentially unsatisfied with my project. I'll give you one guess which one I chose...! :)

[Frank818]

Right now my cost projections are at $23k, and I expect the final total to come out a bit higher (unknowns). My "budget" was $20k, and I REALLY wanted to stick to that, but it's become obvious I can't get what I want for that price. So I can either spend a bit more, or be potentially unsatisfied with my project. I'll give you one guess which one I chose...! :)

What outpower power/tq you are aiming for?

[RelfF2]

Seems like people are always posting that they got their donor for a much better price than i've been able to find. but that's ok because i'm really in no hurry. Have to wait financially anyway and i'd like to see you guys finish some and get the tech section of boards like this a little denser before I jump in, lol.

but right now i'm thinking about going NA impreza and building it fairly basic -- aftermarket wise, really only interested in seats and wheels, and those can be found used. Some minimal stripping or vynal on the gel coat, and done. Surely that can be done under 15k, then once it's done i'll look to turbocharge it or swap in an STi motor and add the carbon bits (minus the wing). Sub-15k to get it rolling, and Sub-20k when its all said and done is doable -- i hope.

[metalmaker12]

Donor: 2k with blown motor. I sold motor, trunk, hood, headlights, fenders, taillights and down pipe. Donor Total: $650
• Front spindles with full brakes and front lower control arms/ rebuilt spindles, 4pot brake upgrade and new Sti control arms, $1,500
• Rear spindles with brakes and e-brake handle/cables/ rebuilt spindles 2 pot brake upgrade $1,000
• Steering rack, tie rod ends, and upper steering column assembly, rebuilt rack $200
• Pedal box and throttle pedal
• Master cylinder and brake booster, and clutch master cylinder
• Engine with turbo and intercooler (if WRX model) STi JDM ej207 version 8 27k $4,100
• Exhaust manifolds, O2 sensors, and down tube/ jdm twinscroll manifold, custom down tube $600
• Transmission / Cusco Lsd $1,500
• Rear lower control arms, toe links, and CV joints/ Sti lower control arms $300
• Front seats, front seat belts, and gauge pod/ Sti 2004 usdm $100, part of trade, worth $4-500
• Fuel pump/ DW 300 $169
• Radiator /Koyo $365
• Wheels and tires/ bbs 2004 sti new powder, and hankook rs3 $900
• Door hinges, front w/ latches,strikers, and inside door handles
• Side view mirrors, left and right
• Rear view mirror
• Rear seat belts, G Force $150
Kit paid in full 6/15/13 $10,389

Many other parts I have to dig up, kartboy rear brake adapter $225, rotors, pads $300 etc
22,448 so far, clutch $600, 23,648, stri gauge $180, hall man boost controller $90,

So 23,918 plus paint, another set of wheels, wing , race seats, race steering wheel, carbon aero and some interior bits, another 5-6k. 28-30k total

[Xusia]

What outpower power/tq you are aiming for?

LOL. Well I planned on a more or less stock setup, with the easy stage one bolt on upgrades. I was expecting maybe 270 crank hp (~230 whp). But my donor changed all that! It was already putting down 300 awhp, and I've decided to also upgrade some bits like the TMIC over stock (donor had a FMIC), cross pipe, do some porting, etc. At this point, I'm expecting maybe 320 whp - nearly 100 more than originally planned (hence my desire now for the RLTC system!)! Go big or go home, right? LOL

My thread is here: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?10098-Found-A-Donor-Ordered-My-Kit

The specific post on the upgrades to the car is here: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?10098-Found-A-Donor-Ordered-My-Kit&p=100546&viewfull=1#post100546

[Xusia]

Seems like people are always posting that they got their donor for a much better price than i've been able to find. but that's ok because i'm really in no hurry. Have to wait financially anyway and i'd like to see you guys finish some and get the tech section of boards like this a little denser before I jump in, lol.

I know how you feel, BELIEVE me. That was my experience before I found my donor. If you want the killer deal, you just have to be patient AND throw a lot of "hooks" into the proverbial waters. Tell people your plans and what you are looking for. I was pretty shameless telling almost everyone I was looking for a wrecked WRX (and why!), and that is how I ultimately found my donor (or more rather, it found me). The guy I bought mine from sold it to me for less than it was worth because he liked what I was going to do with it! And I was still checking Copart several times a week as well; following auctions and even bidding here and there.

Morale of the story is that if you put in the effort, and are patient, it will pay off. Keep the faith dude. :)

[JAubin]

My total cost is counting on selling quite a bit of the donor, so if I sell everything for the avg prices I'm expecting I'm at 16k. Build is assuming just buffed panels, EJ207, Transmission w/ LSD, Aluminum control arms, Stock WRX brakes rebuilt, blasted and painted, and some combo of 17X8/9. Right now looking at Rota as they have some wheels w/ good offsets and sizes in 5X100. I'm sure this is a low estimate, and I'm sure it'll be closer to 20k when I add in unexpected things, etc. Also strongly considering the RLTC but can't commit to that quite yet. Working hard to find good deals on used parts, and selling anything you can off hte donor certainly helps....I feel like finding the right donor and having realistic goals could have someone see sub 15k for sure.

[Kalstar]

Stock build, only upgrades will be seats, wheels, used access port, EL headers and low profile wing I will wrap the car myself, and paint my own frame. No LSD, no paint... basically around 270 crank hp.

Kit $9900
Shipping $0
donor $2700
aftermarket seats $350
aftermarket wheels tires $700
Misc paint supplies $150
Acessport $400
EL headers $500
Vinyl wrap $300
Rear wing $250
Carpet $50
Door cards $50 (I will make my own)
Flush mount pins $75.00
New wear items, clutch, belts, pads, and battery $425
Radiator replacement (damaged) $63.00
Audio $0 have everything from old GTM system.

$15,163.00 gross
$ 1,250.00.00 sold donor parts. (radio, 2 doors, trunk lid, heater core, hood, fenders, lights)
$13,913.00 net. (which leaves me $1,087.00 in misc expense to stay below 15k).

[Frank818]

Go big or go home, right? LOL

My thread is here: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?10098-Found-A-Donor-Ordered-My-Kit

The specific post on the upgrades to the car is here: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?10098-Found-A-Donor-Ordered-My-Kit&p=100546&viewfull=1#post100546

lol!!! I say "Go home big"!!!! :)

Pretty interesting thread and since I aim for the same output, I should SERIOUSLY read everything carefully. :)

[Turboguy]

What ever you think it might cost, Double it!

Anyone who has built a kit before, knows this is a pretty good rule of thumb. Once you get into the build, there is always something you need, or want to have. Or both.

My original roadster budget was $22,500. Then it became $25K. Then $27.5K...........


I stopped counting at $35,000.

[AZPete]

X2 TurboGuy . . . I stopped counting at $35k on my roadster. I told my wife that the many boxes from UPS were just prepaid backorders. I stuffed the receipts in a box marked "dirty rags" in case I decided to add them up, but then thought better of it and trashed the box. Same plan for my 818.
Pete

[metalmaker12]

X2 TurboGuy . . . I stopped counting at $35k on my roadster. I told my wife that the many boxes from UPS were just prepaid backorders. I stuffed the receipts in a box marked "dirty rags" in case I decided to add them up, but then thought better of it and trashed the box. Same plan for my 818.
Pete

Lol, we think alike

[metalmaker12]

Stock build, only upgrades will be seats, wheels, used access port, EL headers and low profile wing I will wrap the car myself, and paint my own frame. No LSD, no paint... basically around 270 crank hp.

Kit $9900
Shipping $0
donor $2700
aftermarket seats $350
aftermarket wheels tires $700
Misc paint supplies $150
Acessport $400
EL headers $500
Vinyl wrap $300
Rear wing $250
Carpet $50
Door cards $50 (I will make my own)
Flush mount pins $75.00
New wear items, clutch, belts, pads, and battery $425
Radiator replacement (damaged) $63.00
Audio $0 have everything from old GTM system.

$15,163.00 gross
$ 1,250.00.00 sold donor parts. (radio, 2 doors, trunk lid, heater core, hood, fenders, lights)
$13,913.00 net. (which leaves me $1,087.00 in misc expense to stay below 15k).
This is just your style, we should make a show about just you, called "cheap and fast" off coarse it will have to be about cars and not girls.

Amazing stuff though, people this guy finished a gtm for 29k

[RelfF2]

I know how you feel, BELIEVE me. That was my experience before I found my donor. If you want the killer deal, you just have to be patient AND throw a lot of "hooks" into the proverbial waters. Tell people your plans and what you are looking for. I was pretty shameless telling almost everyone I was looking for a wrecked WRX (and why!), and that is how I ultimately found my donor (or more rather, it found me). The guy I bought mine from sold it to me for less than it was worth because he liked what I was going to do with it! And I was still checking Copart several times a week as well; following auctions and even bidding here and there.

Morale of the story is that if you put in the effort, and are patient, it will pay off. Keep the faith dude. :)
Well said, man. I was trying to do this the other day and I ended up test driving an black 07 that I now really want as a daily driver...so now I'm even more in the hole! Lol

[Ray]

When we started on our Roadster build (back int 2001) I was told at that time to estimate what I thought it cost to finish the build, double it, look at the total then crumple the paper up and toss it away, never to be thought of again.

Ray

[Kalstar]

This is just your style, we should make a show about just you, called "cheap and fast" off coarse it will have to be about cars and not girls.

Amazing stuff though, people this guy finished a gtm for 29k

The show can include girls too.

Big headlights, light weight.....I can see this working.

[tks]

When and where do you pay sales tax on the kit? MA upon purchase of the kit? Where you live upon registration?

[Ethan818]

I'm looking for ~350hp in my build. Initially I set a budget of $25-$30k and after carefully detailing out all the costs it looks like I'll be sitting at ~$33k when I include all the shipping costs of the kit, donor, and parts to the westcoast... so not too far off :)

Planned Parts:
Frame Powder Coat
GTM Seats
Aftermarket Stearing Wheel
Race Logic Traction Control
Enkei Raijin 18x8
Enkei Raijin 18x9.5
Toyo Proxes R888 225/40ZR18
Toyo Proxes R888 255/35ZR18
Quiafe torsion LSD
lightweight battery

Engine Mods
Blouch 1.5XTR (3" inlet)
DW 850cc injectors
DW 300lph fuel pump
TGV delets
Turbo XS TMIC
Invidia Uppipe
Invidia Downpipe
Perrin Big MAF intake
Gimmik Turbo Inlet
Grimmspeed Boost controller
STRI Xline Boost Gauge
AEM UEGO Wideband
Grimmspeed Phelolic Spacers

[AZPete]

tks, sales tax depends upon your state, county and city so you'll have to research it for where you live. Factory Five did not charge me any taxes when they shipped my roadster kit and Arizona did not hit me either, but AZ is very friendly to specialty car guys. Call your DMV.
Pete

[FFRSpec72]

I'm building a R version, my goal is to keep it cheap and thus have a NA engine, basic interior (raw) and trying to keep the costs under 18K, not sure that will be possible or not, I currently have a challenge car that I race and that was 22K to build and ready for track. I'm no Subaru mechanic so this should be interesting. My goal is to have a fun inexpensive track car for my daughter and to rent out when needed.

[Mechie3]

My plan is a rather modified 818S, for $17k.

Why $17k? It's what insurance paid me for the WRX when it got totaled. It's a "free" kit car since the car was paid off and I found a replacement DD for $3k.

Most of the mods are coming from the donor so they were bought a while ago. The rest of the mods are coming from the CNC at work. Adding in the powder coat and carbon fiber aero bits.

I've been pretty good about budgeting, but the shipping will likely make me break the $17k mark by a little. I sold my OEM seats so if I hadn't done that I'd be fine.

[wleehendrick]

My original 'budget' was $20k, but that was just a rough estimate. I've since started tracking/predicting costs in Excel and have a better idea. I've already sourced my donor, and my plan is to use the stock powertrain from the '06 WRX (just an intake and tune should be plenty initially). I'll polish the white gel-coat panels, so no $$$ paint job, but will get the carbon fiber aero bits with the kit. I'll spiff up the interior with aftermarket seats, harnesses, and steering wheel and probably add a modest stereo. Right now I'm looking at ~$22-23k total if I use the stock wheels off my donor. Eventually I'll upgrade those as well, that will add close to a couple grand for decent rims and rubber. I can probably recoup a bit more for selling some more unused parts (center diff, etc...) however I'm sure there will be unexpected expenses as well.

[bnr32jason]

I started stockpiling and selling Subaru and other parts when I lived in Japan to help pay for this project a few months.

Realistically I'll be spending probably $25k on the build, but only about $15k of that will be out of pocket due to the parts reselling I've been doing. I've still got a bunch of parts I need to sell once they get to my house from Japan, which should offset that cost even more. Also if I can turn this 818 into a functional daily driver (so a soft or hard top that DOES NOT leak (Seattle rain) then I will sell my current daily driver Civic and offset the cost a further $5k or so.

I'm still thinking I'm going to end up buying from 818Donors or one of the other donor companies just to reduce the extra headache of stripping and junking a Subaru chassis. If I find a local wrecked WRX for sale, maybe I'll pick it up and save myself some money, but I'm not counting on it.

[bnr32jason]

Where are you guys getting prices for the optional parts? I checked the FF website and still can't find anything.

[wleehendrick]

Where are you guys getting prices for the optional parts? I checked the FF website and still can't find anything.

The link from the 818 page appears broken, but you can access the order form from the webpage header:

http://www.factoryfive.com/order-a-kit/818s-order-form/


80494 - Carbon Fiber Front Splitter ($399)

80495 - Carbon Fiber Rocker Panel Extension (2 req’d) ($198 ea)

80496 - Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser ($275)

26095 - Large Road Race Wing, Carbon Fiber ($1,499 + S/H)

15304 - Kirkey Aluminum Racing Seats, with Covers (pair) ($835)

26131 - GTM Lightweight Sport Seat, Upholstered (pair) ($1,198)

26239 - 330mm Black Leather Steering Wheel (requires appropriate hub) ($169)

80006 - Polished Aluminum Shifter Knob ($49)

[bnr32jason]

Thanks. An extra $1000 for the carbon parts doesn't sound too bad. Hopefully a carbon hood/frunk is added to that list eventually as well.

I'm still not buying that monstrosity of a spoiler though, thing is absolutely gigantic.

[wleehendrick]

Thanks. An extra $1000 for the carbon parts doesn't sound too bad. Hopefully a carbon hood/frunk is added to that list eventually as well.

NP... about a grand for all the c.f. goodness is a steal! All together, it's less than the c.f. diffuser I just installed on my wife's Beemer!


I'm still not buying that monstrosity of a spoiler though, thing is absolutely gigantic.

Same here... overkill for a street car. I would like a nice carbon spoiler, though.

[Samiam1017]

Does anybody have a good picture of the rear diffuser. All the rear pics I have seen have to much shadowing to see it any good

[Frank818]

Same here... overkill for a street car. I would like a nice carbon spoiler, though.

Ha, maybe you could ask Carbon Fiber guy on the other thread. :)
It's true it would be a seller, I'd prefer a smaller wing too, but one that really works in terms of aerodynamics and down force, not just one for the look of it, or worse, that would slow down the car for no reason.

[Silvertop]

Ha, maybe you could ask Carbon Fiber guy on the other thread. :)
It's true it would be a seller, I'd prefer a smaller wing too, but one that really works in terms of aerodynamics and down force, not just one for the look of it, or worse, that would slow down the car for no reason.

There is reportedly a much smaller rear spoiler in the works for the 818 by FFR. How functional it will be is anybody's guess at this point.

[bnr32jason]

I'm curious if something like a STI/Evo spoiler would fit the 818.