I'm All In

[Mechie3]

The rendering isn't perfect, but still looks pretty darn good IMO. I had my donor dropped off at my house today. Technically, I picked the donor up brand new off the lot almost 6 years ago. A lady ran a red light and in a few short seconds it was over. Bittersweet with the loss of my first new car ever, but excitement over the pending 818 build. On the bright side, the payout from insurance minus the buy back completely covers the cost of the kit. I also know the exact history of the car and all of the parts on it.

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q291/mechie3/2012-06-07_10-41-17_902.jpg


Someone else had mentioned how many people on a forum actually plan to build an 818 vs those who are extremely vocal on their input. It made me wonder, who else is all in? Who is in pending final body reveal? Who wants to be in but can't afford the donor, the kit, the garage space, or the verbal abuse from a spousal unit and for now can only dream?

[skullandbones]

Mechie3,

Are you going for the R version or the street roadster? Did you loss any of the donor parts in the accident? I can't get over how tiny the WRX looks. But it will get to stretch a little in the new format.

WEK.

[Mechie3]

Lost the front radiator. Motor idled for 5-10 seconds after the hit before I turned it off. Timing belt covers didn't looked cracked. Wheels still rolled and all suspension was straight.

I want a street going R version. I like the looks of the R (wing, short windshield, 2 tone) but want a slightly nicer interior that a completely bare shell. I have an F500 (technically an F440) that I autocross that is completely visceral in it's feel. I wanted something similar that is street legal (and safer).

The WRX probably looks tiny because of the perspective. My garage ceilings are 12 feet tall, so it makes things look smaller.

EDIT: I'm wondering how much of the doors we can ditch. Within 5 minutes of posting that I had my car back I had someone wanting 3 of my 4 doors. :lol:

[mug23]

I'm almost all in but I have an 05 STI with a brand new 0 miles closed decked build long block from Outfront Motorsports. The 6 speed trans is a total rebuild with JDM 5th and 6th gears that I would love to use. I would love to transfer all the parts over but I have to iron out the details to see what I can and cannot do.

I'll be at the open house this wekend to ask questions on what to do with my STI parts besides selling it.

Here's my puppy before the OEM motor blew:

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4009/4322185989_6f9b019ebb_z.jpg

[Xusia]

I'd say I'm 99% in. I'm not 100% because the car isn't done yet. We are talking about the future, and you never know what might happen. I love the 818 in concept and have from the very first moment I learned of it. The roadster body is something I would build and own (I'm reasonably sure - pending the reveal of the finished car), though the coupe sounds interesting to me as well. I'd really like roll up windows - which Dave has said is coming - so I'm probably going to wait IMpatiently for that (this is NOT an "I'm taking my ball and going home kind of thing"). About the only reason I haven't bought a donor yet is I'm waiting for a more complete list of what is needed and to see what the price is for a "complete" kit (if they offer it). I don't mind spending a bit more for the options I want, and for new parts (i.e. the complete kit). It's a balancing act to figure out how to get what I want within my budget.

If I had wrecked my existing WRX (thanks to a very kind person, no doubt!) it would be a complete no-brainer!

[David Hodgkins]

I'm in. I don't have a donor, but there's some time for that. I also need to work on buildspace.

...and final approval from my CFO. ;)

:)

[vozproto]

...and final approval from my CFO. ;)



I have one of those too. Except I call her the warden. (she hates that)

[PhyrraM]

I've been 'in' since before the 818 was an idea in Jim's mind. A mid-engined Subaru based car is such a no-brainer to me I wonder why nobody has done it before. I already have a notebook full of a 1/2 designed chassis, a homebuilt steel build table, a welder, and a stack of steel tube. All bought just to make a mid-engined Subaru based car.

Last year, the 818 announcement simply made things a lot easier for me - but I was already well on the path.

The ONLY variable there has ever been for me is "when am I capable of spending $10,000 in one shot?" Now? next year? I still don't know.

[Mechie3]

If that nice lady hadn't run the red light and nicely totaled the car I would definitely be in the "when can I spend $10k" category. Blessing in disguise no doubt.

[AZPete]

I've got the cash, space, tools, experience (built, drove and sold Mk3) and wife says, "Please start another project!" but I want to see the final body design before I pull the trigger.
Pete

[leetfade]

I need another category... I'm about 90% on this one. The dependency is how I feel about my FD when this comes out... :cool:

[RM1SepEx]

I just got a call from the trucking Co. My 05 donor is being delivered today. I'm ready and have finances ready and waiting. I want/need the roadster with a convert top and plan on 220 hp at the wheels... should be easy with a few mods.

Add a windshield to the 818R shown without a wing and perhaps a few aero tweaks and I'm all in. I like the existing body style, fits my needs and meets my expectations. I'll want adjustable Konis and plan on some autocrossing since it is my preferred motorsports activity.

I also owned a Red Devil F440 for a few years 1985 I think... Very fast and visceral, been autocrossing karts since my kids were 8 or so. Looking forward to running a real car though I plan to continue running a RM1DD2... very fast/fun on an autocross course

Edit: Yet another donor delivery delay... 10AM tomorrow

[305mouse]

Carig, according to the website, the doors you can ditch, but keep all the hardware, hinges etc.

[metalmaker12]

all in!!!!!!! love the cars looks!!!!!!!!!!!
I have all parts needed from my stripped 2k 02wrx donor, 2k
I rebuilt the tranny, stock wrx gearset was good, just replaced worn syncros. $313 parts
Resurfacing a set of bbs 5x100 wheels, $265 paint
My motor will be in shortly, went with a usdm sti with 38k with ecu and intercooler 4k
New bearings, hubs, rear axles, ball joints, subaru hardware, ARP wheel studs, Aluminum front control arms, Whitline lower control arm and lateral arms 1,200
wilwood brake kit $? thinking around 1,500-1,700
De-powered Rack $15
Kit 9,900=power-coated frame 299.. soooo around 20k-22k will be invested in this wild child

[slopoke]

I consider myself in for a track version, then wait for a targa or coupe w/HoF that I can use as a daily driver here in the Midwest

[305mouse]

I'm in but it's gonna be about a 5 year wait for me. We'll be going an addition to the house next year, plan on building the garage 2 years after that. Figure that the garage will be paid off in another two years, then I can have my fun toy of a car.

[FFRSpec72]

I just want the "R" version, don't care about other versions, so want the "R" version to roll out first with an approved cage

[rori]

I'm all in. Here's my donor pile:

http://i.imgur.com/OLEWs.jpg

[SkiRideDrive]

Very likely in. Plan on having finances in order in about one years time.

[BipDBo]

I'm in when a coupe becomes available. I have no garage, so I can't own a roadster, and I live in Florida, so good weather seal and A/C are a must. Roll up windows would be nice but not a necessity. My parents live close and they have a massive garage which would be the building location. My father and I once built a boat when I was a teen. Building a car together has been on our list since. My dad is a retired Coast Gaurd aircraft mechanic, and I've spent a lot of time under cars with him. By the time a coupe comes around, my kids may be old enough to lend a hand, so I'm looking forward to seeing the work of three generations in on this project. My wife and I did an engine swap one time, so I think she would even get in. I'll be saving up and keeping my eyes open for good donors. I figure it's a good idea to plan ahead for a nice mid-life crisis.

[Flamshackle]

You forgot the option of "I'm all in and love the body style"

Which is me so I won't vote on this poll.

[FinishlineWRX]

I'm in as I can be.
But want the street or coupe version

Garage space... Check
Wife's permission... Check
Donar parts pile... Growing
STi long block... Check
Savings set up for monies... Check
Monies in savings... In progress

[ScottKoschwitz]

Pretty sure that I have the mechanical aptitude and have the financial means (including the OK from my wife). Don't have the garage space (or handy things like a lift or air tools), and would like to see the street version and whether it will have some features I prefer (targa and roll-up windows). Once that model is released, I'll make a decision whether build the 818, buy an Elise or Boxster, or build a crazy Miata turbo -- two to three years maybe? By then, I hope to have built my garage.

[shim2]

I will buy an 818, not sure if it will be a coupe or a roadster. If an announcement comes down the road that the roadster will have an option to buy roll up windows after initial release I'm all in for it. The zip-in windows threw a wrench in my plans. Otherwise I'm waiting for the coupe. I love everything about it so far, just not feeling the zip-ins

[wjfawb0]

Pretty sure that I have the mechanical aptitude and have the financial means (including the OK from my wife). Don't have the garage space (or handy things like a lift or air tools), and would like to see the street version and whether it will have some features I prefer (targa and roll-up windows). Once that model is released, I'll make a decision whether build the 818, buy an Elise or Boxster, or build a crazy Miata turbo -- two to three years maybe? By then, I hope to have built my garage.

I would love to have an 818. I've got the means to build one, but I'm waiting to see what the street versions will be like. I need something I can drive often. I'll probably go V8 miata or some variant if the 818 doesn't fit the bill.

[EvilJack]

I have the garage, I have 95% of the tools, I have the wifes permission(biggest factor). I just need to free up some money. That will happen in just under two years when my current daily driver is paid off. Its a Scion xB, its good for a quite a while. It could take that long or longer for FFR to even fill all the initial orders they get when this thing goes on sale. Still I am waiting till final roadster is show before I make a definate decision. As much as I like roadsters, I am a bit tempted to wait around for the highmileage version, and use it as a commuter to/from work.

Oh and I hope they don't change the name. 818 has grown on me, and if they do give it another name, I will always call it the 818.

[crobin4]

OP, sorry for your loss, or errr, gain!;) Seriously, I do hate to see a nice car destroyed.:(
Mug, nice ride!:D

Got enough stuff laying around for a donor, just waiting....
I have a fairly specific purpose for the car, so the package(s) just needs to continue to align a bit closer with what I need and I'll be ready.;)
It has evolved that way since it's inception, so I expect it to continue on that path...

[wallace18]

I have bought a 2002 wrx donor for 2.8K. I have the shop, tools and money. Just waiting for the ability to purchase.

[Mechie3]

Got out the sawzall and started the teardown.

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q291/mechie3/2012-06-09_00-26-00_318.jpg

[Chopped34]

I'm not going to be an immediate customer but maybe in five years.

[riptide motorsport]

Sawzall and a BFH.......no problem!!!!

[Xusia]

Is that a Mini Cooper next to it? :D

[projectrally]

I got the wife's approval, and I'm all in. I don't have a donor yet, but I've got a connection to a body shop that can bid at insurance auctions, so it's only a matter of time. I was originally thinking street and autocross car, but I'm changing my mind on that front. I don't think this thing (at least in the initial roadster form) is going to be easy to weatherproof, so I don't see it being a weekend getaway mobile capable of usurping the Miata.

Instead, I think I'm going to retire the Miata from AX duty and make it a full time road car. The 818 will be my AX and track rat. I'll want to build a street version, but with the upgraded 818R suspension. I won't spend the time adding many creature comforts. My final aim is a car that's set up for cones and track days, but just comfortable enough to make the 6-7 hour drive to some of the more distance regional tracks...

[bugeye_fever]

Unfortunatly I'll have to say this is my 5 year plan. My wrx is going back to 'mostly' stock for family hauling duties while I continue to AX with an old integra. The integra will be much cheaper to run in all aspects than my beloved subie is. However, downgrading the Subie will supply me with the biggest parts needed, a built 2.5 hybrid and 5 speed in good condition, and selling some parts will add to the savings. Before the 818 came along i planned to downgrade anyway and race the integra as I work toward some scca licenses. Maybe in 5 years there will be a racing series for the 818 as i've seen mentioned a few places. Just spitballing here, but if there is a 818 series i hope its based on power to wieght rather than being a spec series, that way competitors could draw from the wide range of options in the subaru aftermarket. But all of thats off topic.

[Kalstar]

I'm in.

[bromikl]

I'm all in with an Impreza build. 2.5 N/A is enough for me - until I spy a built WRX engine for a good price. I can always upgrade later!

[Mechie3]

Is that a Mini Cooper next to it? :D

2011 MCS. Bought it to be the wife's car. With the WRX down for the count I've been using it as a DD while she drives the Envoy (though we switch on/off occasionally).


Here's how the WRX looks now. Someone wanted to buy the roof skin so I cut it off.

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q291/mechie3/2012-06-12_23-13-25_465.jpg

[Kalstar]

Please keep track of your parts sell off ($$). Googledocs is a great tool and can be remotely shared, oh and it's free. Keeping track of the parts sell off will be a great help to those that plan to go donor. I kept track on my GTM build and have had many people thank me for giving them a "parts sell off roadmap". Simple as....which part, how much you got for it and where you sold it.

[Kalstar]

I'm all in with an Impreza build. 2.5 N/A is enough for me - until I spy a built WRX engine for a good price. I can always upgrade later!

Or you can go with the Ecoboost Dave as talking about. You thought is very smart, buy the cheaper less desirable, lower milage car and upgrade the engine later with the money saved on the donor....smart!

[Silvertop]

I'm about 95% in, pending final reveal of the street roadster. If it looks like I think it will, it's a done deal. I have the money, and a space to build it, and will soon have the time (retirement project). I don't yet have a donor. I am intrigued by the AJW Performance option of purchase a "donor pallet" rather than a whole car. The least attractive part of the project for me would be stripping the donor car and then disposing of the leftovers. Least attractive to my wife, too.... It will cost a little more to do it that way, but will simplify the process.

My build will most likely be based on a 2.5 NA Impreza, with a stock bottom end, but with cylinder head porting, cam & spring upgrades, bolt on intake goodies, and an ECU tune sufficient to get it to 200 flywheel horsepower. It will also get a suitable tuned exhaust system as well, though this will presumably be provided with the kit.

[Mechie3]

Please keep track of your parts sell off ($$). Googledocs is a great tool and can be remotely shared, oh and it's free. Keeping track of the parts sell off will be a great help to those that plan to go donor. I kept track on my GTM build and have had many people thank me for giving them a "parts sell off roadmap". Simple as....which part, how much you got for it and where you sold it.

I've been doing this in excel so far. I want to find out the total end cost of the build for me, the total cost of the donor, etc. I'll post up here when I have more things sold.

[projectrally]

Or you can go with the Ecoboost Dave as talking about. You thought is very smart, buy the cheaper less desirable, lower milage car and upgrade the engine later with the money saved on the donor....smart!

The rub here is that the wiring is all very different. So it won't be a simple engine swap, it'll be a lot of re-wiring, and a lot of added work. If you're trying to save money up front and wait till you've rebuilt your cash stockpile before diving into a turbo motor, I see the practical advantages of this. But for a little bit more money up front, you'll be able to do the job right the first time...

[bromikl]

I read a few pages about engine swaps on NASOIC. Enough to know I don't want to do it in a production car.
In a kit, I imagine the wiring will be accessible. I expect I should be able to strip out the engine management wiring and ECU when I pull the Impreza motor, and have plenty of access to run the new wiring.

[PhyrraM]

If you segregate the engine control wiring into a seperate harness when you first build the car, it should open up alot of opportunities over the life of the car. You'll likely be trimming and rewrapping the harness just for the basic kit anyways.

[Nuul]

That's a good point about the wiring, I'll be sure to pick up a heat gun next time I'm at HF. I'd like to do some crazy/fun things with electronics - like use an android tablet in the dash like in the pic below. Maybe use the VSS to show my speed vs. what the speedometer is showing.

10270

[StatGSR]

I'd like to do some crazy/fun things with electronics - like use an android tablet in the dash like in the pic below. Maybe use the VSS to show my speed vs. what the speedometer is showing.

10270

or you could just buy a tablet with a gps and install a speed app, i got one on my phone for free. though i think there are some apps out there that just need a bluetooth obd2 adapter to display whatever you want..

[Xusia]

I had already planned on using an android tablet as the basis for navigation, info display, and as the sole source for the audio system. I'll lose the ability to use steering wheel controls (if they even have that), but that really doesn't matter to me.

[Mechie3]

Steering wheel controls for audo/etc weren't added to most subarus until 2008.

[PhyrraM]

I had already planned on using an android tablet as the basis for navigation, info display, and as the sole source for the audio system. I'll lose the ability to use steering wheel controls (if they even have that), but that really doesn't matter to me.

You can still have Steering wheel control with a bit of creativity.

The Tablet/mobile device will accept certain music player controls through bluetooth already, as will many apps like Pandora. Many aftermarket head units will accept steering control inputs and pass them through to the mobile device through bluetooth when that is selected as the source. I use the steering wheel to skip Pandora on my phone to the next track every day (stock radio in a CX9 and aftermarket Kenwood in my Outback)

It's only a small bridge from there to combine the two. The next step would be a small, dedicated device to replace the headunit. I'm sure that this is actually pretty easy for a person with the right education/background.

[Xusia]

The Tablet/mobile device will accept certain music player controls through bluetooth already, as will many apps like Pandora. Many aftermarket head units will accept steering control inputs and pass them through to the mobile device through bluetooth when that is selected as the source. I use the steering wheel to skip Pandora on my phone to the next track every day (stock radio in a CX9 and aftermarket Kenwood in my Outback)

Right. I have that now as well - BECAUSE I have an actual head unit. In the 818 I plan to bypass that. I'm sure I could still rig something up, but with an interior that is sure to be, shall we say, "intimate," I don't think it will matter! :)