FR-S Ownership: Sounding off on 2+ yrs

"B_dol" (bdolan40)
09/23/2014 at 11:30 • Filed to: None

It's been a while since I provided any update on the status of my FR-S. After two years of ownership, I am still extremely pleased with the car besides its obvious downfalls. As a budget sportscar, it stands amongst the best on sale today. The cheap thrills, driving position, handling and excellent stick shift make it a no-brainer purchase, however, it was the aftermarket support that sold me.

Graduating with a Mechanical Engineering degree, I wanted my first car to be something I could hold onto, wrench on and modify as I saw fit for years to come. With student loans I wasn't exactly rolling in the benjamins, so something with modest payments and a warranty provided some security. I kept the car completely stock for nearly a year besides obsessively cleaning it (thanks to /DriveClean and Larry Kosilla).

Now, people fall on many sides of the modify or not (built or bought!!!!) argument, but I felt the car could benefit from a few upgrades without going nuts. I should preface this by saying I have zero plans for forced induction. The more you ask of it and berate Toyota/Subaru for not delivering, the more you realize that another car likely suits your needs better. The FR-S has a very particular character and passion to it, providing an agile with modest platform with a focus on the driving experience, not necessarily speed. As a metaphor, the FR-S is full bodied, savory vanilla ice cream…Fulfilling when you want it, lacking when you seek something more exotic and unique.

My first upgrades came in the form of a TRD Cold Air Intake and Catback Exhaust, taking advantage of OEM+ accessories with a factory warranty. The FR-S felt more alive, climbing through the rev range quicker and sporting a much more fitting exhaust note given its Subaru heritage.

I sat on those upgrades for a year before the mod bug hit again, this time I had the car lowered on Racecomp Engineering suspension bits to provide a more aggressive look (eliminated 1" fender gap), better dampening and adjustability with a full alignment. To be honest, this upgrade was more to bring the car down to a sporty level (not hellaflush, bro) without compromising the suspension range of travel or dampening. Carving the canyons, I saw subtle improvement on the corning and handling, yet the stock tires still limit grip and stability.

The most recent upgrade has been a FT86-SpeedFactory Unequal Length Catted Header to address the mid-range RPM dip in torque and allow the engine to breathe. This will be paired with a tune later on; however I am running it without one as is. The results speak for themselves, and see the sound clip below. To assess the contributions of the hi-flow cat and UEL header, it is best to break things down:

- Torque: The stock FR-S is known an unpleasant lack of torque in the 3.5-5K RPM range, and the header does a great deal to lessen this (will need a tune to unlock full potential). Car revs and climbs through the RPMs more naturally, making it more fluid to drive.

- HP: Top end doesn't seem affected, car is still happiest in the 6000-7500 RPM range.

- Sound: The header made a significant difference in the tone and volume of sound. Less restriction to the airflow gave a slightly louder level of noise, but a more refined tone with the definitive "boxer rumble". The car sounds mean and pops and bangs when falling down the rev range. To be honest, it's a bit louder than I would like but not too crazy. Same level as a lightly modded STi.

Embarking on year three of owning the car, my only plan is drive it and upgrade the wheels to 17x9 sporting Hankook Ventus Evos. At that point in time, this car will be an exquisite scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, best enjoyed regularly. Looking into the future, I would like to add something a bit meaner to the garage, carrying with it a sense of occasion and gnarley V8 exhaust note

Stay tuned for any further updates.

DISCUSSION (33)

Vimto > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 11:43

The FR-S has been out for 2 years already?! Yeezus.

Anyway, sounds like you're enjoying it, many more years of happy and safe driving to you :)

Jonathan Harper > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 11:47

Love me some FR-S. Great car, so tossable.

B_dol > Vimto
09/23/2014 at 11:54

Out since June 2012 yep. It'll hard to part with this car if I ever have to, hoping to keep it long term regardless of whatever else I add to the stable.

Tim > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 12:11

Great car, great color. I have been enjoying my grey BRZ for about 3 months now. Can't get enough of it. E85 station about a mile from work at $2.89 means I'm on the juice and can't kick that habit! Such a great car. Did I already say that?

B_dol > Tim
09/23/2014 at 12:42

I concur, any future plans for upgrades?

Tim > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 13:09

I bought the car at 2,100 miles from a guy who had put on G-Force Rivals in 225 so it's nice to have the stickier and larger rubber on there already. I am using the OFT to be able to run E85. He also put the JDM tips on it. I just finished building a bike rack for it. Did tinted windows and weatherguard mats. Modified the air intake like Vishnu suggested and installed the camber bolts on the front end. Otherwise, she's stock. :-)
(I'm cutting down the length of the shin killing bike rack ASAP)

Oh, and some smoke side markers... Lots of little stuff. Oh yah, also the silver intior dash that the BRZ has was annoying me so I replaced it with the JDM black dash.

(Second pic is from the add)

Kinja'd!!!

mcseanerson > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 13:28

I should preface this by saying I have zero plans for forced induction.

You're my hero. I would be perfectly happy with a 100% stock FR-S but if I were to go full tilt mod I'd rather head down a poor man's 911 GT3 route than slap a turbo on it. I have nothing against forced induction but I just feel it does not suit the nature of this car.

Tareim - V8 powered > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 13:30

the more posts I see about these twins the more I want one, just trying to save money for one now, hoping to test drive a brz soon (once the dealers get back to me) anything I should look out for on these?

B_dol > mcseanerson
09/23/2014 at 14:30

Agreed, I have been back and forth on that camp and ultimately I think the $7-10K could be spent better elsewhere (i.e. another car). With the aftermarket going full-tilt, it does make one lust after upgrades...keeping up with the Jones' will leave you broke.

B_dol > Tareim - V8 powered
09/23/2014 at 14:33

Are you shopping used or new? Just be aware that it is not the perfect car for ever driver/buyer. It's not a sledgehammer muscle car, so the torque might disappoint some people. That being said, its a great driver focused car and a tremendous bargain. Lots of wind noise, lots of shaking on the stiff suspension.

I love it, but I did cross shop the Mustang, Camaro, 370Z, Miata, WRX, GTI, etc. before purchasing. As always, internet reviews only say so much...get that seat time!

Tareim - V8 powered > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 14:40

currently running a 2.5v6 MG ZT at approx 200hp so used to the speed not too fussed about going ridiculously fast as there isn't the opportunity round here to do so, meaning I'm looking for a nice handling car.

As for New vs Used, I'd like new because then I could have it how I want, I don't fancy alcantara as its not the easiest to clean and can look dirty very easily to me and not fussed about sat nav as I got my phone, also I'd like a paint colour that is easy/cheap to repair cus there are people round here that don't care if they put a scratch on your car, I'm always finding a new scratch on mine even if it's just a hairline, however the cost of new vs old may force me into a used car, will just have to try and get a good deal. will try play subaru against toyota to make it work

mcseanerson > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 14:48

I've always thought a full exhaust with a header (like yours), a more aggressive cam with ported and polished heads, and a tune would get you in the 220-240 hp range. Like you said this isn't about wanting a different flavor, just more of the fullness of the original flavor. If you start worrying a ton about the money you'll start to fall into the why buy new trap. Next you'll fall into the what will the resale value be trap. Next thing you know you'll have 1990 Miata with 732 miles in the garage you clean twice a month and drive once a year to make sure the parts still move.

B_dol > Tareim - V8 powered
09/23/2014 at 14:51

The differences between the Subaru/Toyota variants are minimal, but i'll detail them below

Front bumper - BRZ has 'mustache' , Spring Rates - BRZ has softer (often preferred of the two) setup, Interior - BRZ has slightly different coloring on the trim/instrument gages and an upgraded alcantara option.

I find the Scion perfect although some can't seem to live with the badge stigma. The only reason I would swing BRZ is for the Subaru rally blue. Easy to live with colors...Silver or dark grey metallic I'd say. I hear white is hard to color match for paint correction.

B_dol > Tim
09/23/2014 at 14:54

Nice taste! I am pulling the trigger on wheels and tires this week, although I'm waiting til after my complimentary dealer 30K checkup to install them.

Tim > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 15:11

Post up a pic. I go back and fourth between liking the stock wheels because the cars looks classy, but doesn't stand out and wanting something that looks a little more aggressive. As long as they are lighter than stock I think that sooner or later I'll be able to justify it to myself. Haha!

Tim > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 15:25

Kinja'd!!!

So cheap!

Tareim - V8 powered > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 15:27

yeah I heard the Subaru was a more balanced setup when it comes to the suspension, and prefer the silver finish to the carbon fibre-esque style in the toyota

as for the bumper I think the Subaru looks better, more happier than the gt86

B_dol > Tim
09/23/2014 at 15:46

Exact setup going on the car...

Kinja'd!!!

Tim > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 15:48

Nice, looks like serious rubber. Specs?

B_dol > Tareim - V8 powered
09/23/2014 at 15:50

Then you have your answer. The RCE springs I went with closer match the BRZ setup as well, and I am happy with the ever so slight change.

B_dol > Tim
09/23/2014 at 15:52

Wheels are Grid-V 17x9 (TE37V replicas), tires will be Hankook Evos 245/40/17. Those were only pictures I could find of the right color/wheel setup. I think he has a bit more tire than I am looking at.

B_dol > mcseanerson
09/23/2014 at 16:00

Yup, I'll be getting a tune soon to send me into the 210-225 HP range. If I do spring for more upgrades, it would be a more aggressive gearing ratio (cutting some top speed for acceleration).

Too be honest, sometimes in life you have to say "this is a stupid f'in decision and a waste of money" and then make that choice anyway. Cars are money pits, but I sure do enjoy them.

My hope is to reach a nice "stopping" point on the FR-S, and continue saving for the next space in the garage. If you must ask... a 911 Carrera S, F-Type, used Vantage, or used GT-R are the front runners.

Tim > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 16:03

Loos good!

mcseanerson > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 16:04

Ooooo 964. I'm great at telling other people to do with their money, it's part of my internet resume.

With your line on making a stupid choice and being ok with it I wholeheartedly agree with you and so does Chris Harris. If you haven't watched his Drive+ video on buying a Ferrari FF you should. It has brought me to a whole new level of respect for a man I already had a good deal of respect for.
http://driveonvimeo.com/

B_dol > mcseanerson
09/23/2014 at 16:10

I was attempting to paraphrase his highness sir Chris Harris. The problem is I just can't seem to settle in on one car!

I know I would like to ( EDIT: WILL) own a 911 at some point in my life, but the GF thinks we need a car with a greater sense of occasion. Living in the SF Bay Area, certain cars are a bit too common place, which is why the Aston or GT-R have an extra cool factor about them (plus depreciation!).

mcseanerson > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 16:14

If I want a sense of occasion I want something old. That way you will have a sense of occasion for driving something classic but also for arriving alive.

B_dol > mcseanerson
09/23/2014 at 16:22

but also for arriving alive.

Indeed, a restomod Camaro has been a dream car of mine as well. Since the gf is fronting half the cost, I can guarantee it'll have to be a new-gen car. Wish me luck!

mcseanerson > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 16:23

Maybe an SLS AMG. They are probably going to hit their low soon and start climbing back up like Ford GTs are doing now. Good luck.

B_dol > mcseanerson
09/23/2014 at 16:28

Don't even tempt me. I have an excel spreadsheet of all cars to cross shop in the future, its a certifiable problem. Check out this video

What's in your garage & future garage?

NervesOfThrill > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 16:35

Great write up. I love reading about car purschases goen right and turned itno love affairs.

B_dol > NervesOfThrill
09/23/2014 at 16:45

Yeah I can get a bit carried away! Lucked out with this car, especially as a 'first' car post college.

mcseanerson > B_dol
09/23/2014 at 17:00

I currently have (or is it had?) a 95 Miata and the Wife drives a 99 WJ Grand Cherokee. Miata engine failed last night so I am at a crossroads there. I want a collection of cheaper slightly rare cars. A Volvo 142, a Triumph GT6, a Alfa GTV, a Lancia Delta Integrale, I could keep going.

coz312 > B_dol
09/26/2014 at 12:59

I just want to know more about that yellow EK hatch...