Currently in the process of selling my Fiesta ST and looking for a suitable replacement. I have the Evo X MR and 135i at the top of my list, but it's been tough finding the right MR in my budget of 25k or less. Given some of the issues I've heard about the SST, I'd prefer to buy one that's stock, which has been hard to come across.


I did find this one, but what do you guys think about the amount of rust?


https://www.lwautomotive.com/VIN/JA32W5FV6CU007246


Another one I found is a 2008 with 64k miles, it's much cleaner, but I read the 08 SSTs function differently. From a stop, there's a delay when pressing the gas, whereas later models engage instantly. Is this true?


Also, would I need to purchase any aftermarket transmission cooling to be able to run track days and autocross at stock power?


Thanks.

 

If your budget is 25k than you can find MUCH cleaner examples than that one.

Go 2011+ if you can

At this point I wouldn't touch a 2008, especially with that budget.

 

It seems like a good deal from what I've seen and being that it's a one owner is a plus.

 

When the SST ****s the bed, it's gonna cost you $5k+ to fix it. So you need to hold out for the right car. 2011+, lower miles, clean, maintenance records, etc.

Basic stuff like an exhaust and I take are nothing to worry about as far as mods go.

 

Is it common for them to hit 100k when left fairly stock and with basic maintenance?

 

It's impossible to say. Some do some done. You could get a perfectly maintained one and the valvebody could have a random issue or the magnets could fall off one of the shift forks. If you can't see yourself affording a random and expensive transmission repair, I would stay away from the MR. Get a GSR.

 

+1 for the GSR instead of the MR. Save yourself the money, worry and trouble.

 

I used to have a Ralliart (2011 Model) with the SST. Well-maintained - all work done by dealer (incl. transmission fluid changes). It broke at ~65,000 miles. Gave a light saying SST needs servicing and stopped engaging in gear. Just outside the 60,000 mile warranty. Sold the car "as-is" for ~$2k. SST is great - but there is always that uncertainty lingering it will break after warranty is up. And you will be looking at very expensive repair bill! So I agree with the others, get GSR and and you will have less to worry about.

 

The MR is a GREAT car. You just need to be prepared to have a very large expense of replacing the trans when (not if) it breaks.