$5,400 · 2003 Subaru Forester XS, Gorgeous Car, AWD, Enthusiast-Owned, Automatic, Loaded

From the lustrous original paint, to the smooth as silk driving experience, this gem of an all wheel drive wagon is a poster child for "pride of ownership." We are big Subaru fans, have owned 8 of them over the last 30 years, and I have to say this one has been my favorite of the lot. It's tight, responsive, reliable, practical, everything a Subaru should be. And it's the XS model, giving it a leg up over the basic model, with luxury/practical options like a huge moonroof (that feels like a convertible), aluminum alloys, hot hot heated seats in winter, cool cool climate control/airconditioning in summer, factory roof racks, premium sound system, cruise control and a very handy six feet of high ceiling cargo space with the rear seats folded flat. The second generation of Foresters (2003-2008) is considered superior by Subaru aficionados to the first generation (bulky and old looking) and the third generation (prone to mechanical issues and poorly designed). Other than the Impreza, the second generation Forester is the only Subaru fully manufactured in Japan (the Outbacks and Legacys were made in indiana). As such, it makes for a more rewarding driving experience than the Outback (which can feel bulky, boatlike and floaty). The typical issues with this model (head gasket and cam seals) have already been taken care of (in 2021). Recent maintenance includes: Brand new tires, calipers/brakes, tie rods, sensors, regulators and sunroof motor. The body is as it appears in the photos, with no rust and gleaming toreador red paint. Mechanically it's impeccable, and other than a few minor interior scuffs and squiggles, it's super-clean aesthetically as well. And with 268k (or about 11000 per year) it has years and years of happy motoring ahead. If you're seriously interested in the Subaru, please leave a phone number, as I'm not technologically advanced enough to have email on my phone.