Semi-Newb with an 08

[EnderX2]

Hello All,
Im a club jumper from NASIOC and thought I would introduce myself.

I'm currently stationed up here in Anchorage, AK untill the end of this year. I've had my 08 since 2010. I haven't done much to it since I got it and have been in a sort of upgrade stasis.

2008 DGM Premium Hatch---
-Foglights
-Seat Warmers
-Dimming mirror with home link
-All weather Mats
-Extended Armrest
-All around tint w/o front windshield
-Debadged Sport mesh grille
-Black and Red Rally Armor UR mudflaps
-Partially (and Professionally) smoked tails
-Led Bulb replacement
-Red LED floor and cubby lights installed

**-Cobb Accessport - with Stage 1 91 Flash

I won't lie. I am an 08 owner with kind of a stigma. I had a choice between a OBP 09 WRX Sedan with ciggarette smell and bumper damage, or my 08 Hatch. Also I am a family man and wanted the space of a hatch. The hatch called to me. Even though I test drove both and felt more power in the 09 I chose the 08 (And don't regret it). Plus the 08 was unmodded and owned by 1 adult, it's hard to find a virginal. I'm not forking the money down for OEM parts to match a stock 09+, so I'm slowly working my way up to getting the stuff I want and properly tuned. It'd have been nice to start off with 45 more HP but what's done is done. And yes, I could easily and economically upgrade to a newer model (I only owe 10k on my 08), but I'm sentimental, and the fact that the 08 is the bastard step child of the family makes it all that more beloved to me, I even kept my signature Chrome trunk peice (I think it looks good in contrast to the tails, terrible otherwise).

I am an airforce mechanic with moderate mechanical skill. No tuning experience, and have barely used my accessport for much more than a glorified boost gauge. I haven't spent any time logging or looking. Also alaska only carries 90 Octane, so I've been running Chevron 90. Oil has been Shell Rotella.

I give this information because I am in need of a mentor. The AKIC is very close, but I think I'm the only one with an 08. Advice is normally given in the form of "get a MY12" or I'm given conflicting theology from across the board and for different models. I'm not buying a new car because I believe a car is what you build, not what you buy in cars like these. And I would see my 08 built and grow with me as my DD. My Short term goals are:
-Catted Invidia N1 DP or Cobb Catted DP (Since I already have an AP for it)
-Invidia Unequal length headers
-Uppipe and Mid
-Kartboy STS w/ Momo Gotham Knob (Gorgeous)
-Misc Suspension upgrades, End links, bushings, springs etc. (For safe sporty lowering, not gangsta ass drag dropping)

So thats my life story folks. Any veterans with 08 and upgrade stories to share please bring my attention to them and your vehicle. Thanks for reading guys if you made it this far. Feel free to tell me if I'm blowing my car up.

[EJ257]

Welcome to the site

Because you don't have the best gas, I would strongly urge you to do some datalogging to make sure everything is running safe.

As for the headers, I'm really not a fan of UEL headers; I'd prefer a good set of EL headers (Invidia makes a good set for ~$850).

[EnderX2]

Welcome to the site

As for the headers, I'm really not a fan of UEL headers; I'd prefer a good set of EL headers (Invidia makes a good set for ~$850).

I'd heard we lose our rumble with equal length...fact or fiction?

[EJ257]

I'd heard we lose our rumble with equal length...fact or fiction?

Fact. The rumble is the sound of inefficiency, though. Instead of sounding like a Subaru, your car will sound more like a Porsche. Better sound, more power; worthwhile trade, IMO.

[EnderX2]

Interesting, and noted. I'll definately do some research on this. I'd likely go with the DP next anyway if I didn't do something else cosmetic. I definately like the idea of more power.

[11blackwrx]

welcome to the forum

[Calvinball]

Welcome!

[wrx650]

Welcome!

[EnderX2]

Thanks guys for the warm welcome.