Just throwing this out there.

[gwader]

For $20k +. Of course you'd loose the build process, but you can finance one of these. I'd opt for the BRZ. Basically which of the 3 body kits do you like.


http://www.subaru.com/brz/2013/index.html

http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/2013-subaru-brz_100371869_m.jpg

http://www.scionfirst86.com/
http://c819941.r41.cf2.rackcdn.com/media%2Dimages%2Dfullscreen%2D01.jpg

http://wot.motortrend.com/toyota-gt-86-ft-86-first-official-photos-revealed-in-advance-of-tokyo-debut-139367.html

http://wot.motortrend.com/files/2011/11/Toyota-GT-86-side-view-623x389.jpg

convertible coming too

http://www.roadandtrack.com/future-cars/first/2014-subaru-brz-convertible
http://www.roadandtrack.com/var/ezflow_site/storage_RT_NEW/storage/images/make/subaru/flippers/2014-subaru-brz-convertible/2701506-2-eng-US/2014-subaru-brz-convertible.jpg

hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

[michael everson]

Thats a nice looking Sube

[Xusia]

I don't see how the BRZ even compares. It's performance won't be on par with the 818; at least not at similar price levels. It also doesn't have wow factor. Don't get me wrong, it's a nice looking car, just not HOF (at least for me).

[VTX]

Isn't it also front engine too?

[Xusia]

I believe so. With rear drive though.

[gwader]

Oh snap. Engine is in the front. Fail!

[gwader]

STI!!!!!

http://www.wired.com/images_blogs/autopia/2011/11/Subaru-BRZ-Concept-STi.jpg

[ScoobySnack818]

This is kind of what I was getting at when I posted the thread: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?4960-Build-Cost-Example-What-is-your-plan

But yes, the BRZ or FR-S or GT-86 (depending on where you live) will not have the power-to-weight ratio of the 818. It will however have a finished interior, creature comforts, and weatherproof for about the same price as a 818 build. Performance wise the STi version might have 80% of the quickness a finished 818 would have IMHO. What other cars are potential build-killers?

[jimgood]

Those are NOT going to retail for under $25k.

Okay, maybe $24,999.

I'd still opt for an 818 or an FFR Roadster.

[MuddyRoverRob]

The part to get excited about is that in a few years there will be a supply of almost new front engine rear drive powertrains available in the wild!

FFR has a headstart on the other kit suppliers in this regard.

[VTX]

The BRZ STI looks like a very nice car. I wouldn't mind having one, but I also want and 818, provided I think the final body looks cool.

[Draco-REX]

In the US, the BRZ will be $25-27K with the FR-S coming in a bit less for a base model. The car has a 55/45 weight distribution and a loaded BRZ will weigh 2762lbs. ANd it's CG height, at 18" or so, is supposedly lower than that of a 458 Italia.

Will it replace an 818? No. The 818 at nearly 1000 lbs less will out perform the BRZ in almost every way.

That said, I plan to pick up a BRZ this summer. It'll be fun, relatively light weight, and get good mileage. I've been driving AWD Subarus for the last 4 years and I've begun to miss RWD. So I'm really looking forward to it. It'll hold me over until I get my 818 built.