I need some input on which model to purchase. I will be getting a IX i am just unsure of which model to get. The main thing i am wondering about is the aluminum roof. How much of a noticeable difference does it make? I really want an evo and i want the absolute best performance that i can get for my money (of course). So basically it is between the gsr and the mr. Let me know what you think of the aluminum roof.

 

you should get the rs if you want the best performance for your money

 

well the aluminum roof is obviously not that strong, and i heard it will dent and bend in easily. For example, when there is wet heavy snow on your roof it will most likely bend. The MR is really nice, but the aluminum roof is just no good

 

mostly i am curious as to the handling difference with the roof. I was thinking about the rs but i came to the conclusion that i wanted the power goodies. but i may still go that way.

 

I personally would go for the RS, however i'm not a fan of white or red. Maybe somehow they will offer different colors in 2007 :\

 

It will really depend on how hard core you are into racing. If your the weekend or once a month autocrosser......as a hobby, I wouldn't do it. If your running for points, and need every single bit of performance out of it, then maybe.... If you want it just becuase it's an MR then yes? If you want the RS to save money.... or to go without the wing (I almost got it for just that reason alone)then yes. In the STI, the rain sounds like heavy pinging...really loud and annoying, I figure the roof in the rs and mr may be the same. But then.....what's good/bad annoying/exhillerating to me, won't be the same for all.

Also....you would have to be really good. I think it's just about safe to say a PRO or really close to it.....to get the weight benefits of the RS or MR roof.

 

huh? do you have any real information about the alu roof or can we safely assume you have no idea what you're talking about?

 

Whoa, where did this come from? The question about the aluminum roof is in terms of handling due to the lower center of gravity with a much lighter roof. There isn't some big issue with denting or bending. Where did you read this? Yes, it is softer and will bend more easily, but it's not like MR owners are driving around with cavd in roofs. I don't have any damage to mine after about 10 heavy snows since I bought it in 2004.

Alpineracer, like others have said, it depends on how hard core you are about racing it. The average person probably would never notice the difference in body roll from the lower center of gravity, but someone who races frequently, especially autocrosses, will probably notice.

 

Get an RS. The amount of money you save will allow you to, among other things, get a great suspension that will make a huge difference in handling, rather than the very minor difference a lighter roof makes.

 

not much else difference
but rain on the evos aluminum roof does sound louder than on steel

 

If cost is not an issue then you have to decide what you want. The MR will give you a bit more compliant ride and more relaxed freeway cruising in an awesome handling package. I'm a stealth addict and love the RS and chose it over the MR. I also plan on keeping the mods to a minimum and maximize weight reduction so it is perfect for me. If you can't decide then I would say get the regular IX, that way you have a bit more sound insulation, you get the power features, etc. The only one I would not recomend is the SSL. The standard '06 interior is sweet and you don't need to spend the $$$ for the leather. I also do not care for the sunroof, I had one on my '03 and it seemed a bit cheezy. If you were even thinking about an SSL I'd encourage you to get the MR...unless you have to have a s/r then the SSL is your only choice.

The bottom line is that you can't go wrong with any in the range so take your pick and have fun