AWD in the PNW
Full parking lots are a common occurrence at EvCC. Within those lots lies a culture all its own; the Subaru family. Subaru has managed to build an entire culture surrounding the brand, making it a fascinating community to be a part of.
Aaron Bodenstab, a second-quarter electrical engineering major, joined the community roughly 8 months ago. When asked about purchasing his car, Bodenstab stated, “It was a big moment for me because I had always wanted a Subaru and to be able to have the one that I do as my first car is a dream come true.” His love of cars sprouted roughly a year ago after working on some of his friend’s cars. With this said he also hopes to have them remain a part of his life. “I don’t really know where I see myself in the future yet, but I hope it involves cars.”
The addition of his Subaru, a 2007 Impreza, added a hobby to fill up his time. “There isn’t much else that I do when I am not doing things with my car.” Working on modifications and upgrades is one of Bodenstabs favorite pastimes. “I am always looking to see what the next mod I want to do on my car is and how I can save enough money to do it.” So far he has added a stereo, speakers, a subwoofer, LED low beams and high beams, new brake pads, rotors along with an aftermarket exhaust and mud flaps. Next, he plans on installing a front lip under the front bumper. After that, it’s all aftermarket – from coilovers to wheels.
While modified Subarus are common, not all of them that look like they have mods truly do. Frederick Marcos, the owner of a 2001 Impreza 2.5RS, has just that situation. “People think it has an STI in it, it’s like camouflage.” In fact, the only modifications Marcos has done is a paint job to the classic Subaru blue, replacing the catalytic converter and adding new molding. Everything is still stock.
Next to modifications rally and car clubs are some of the most thought of connections to Subarus. Rally driving includes things such as drifting on snow plains and doing donuts. One of the most common driving schools seen to work with Subaru specific drivers is Dartfish. While Bodenstab sees his car as more of a track car over a rally car, Marcos hopes to experience rally driving once he knows he can be as safe as possible with it.
Raincity Subies is the club to be in for Subaru drivers in the Pacific Northwest. Both Bodenstab and Marcos recently joined since obtaining their cars. Marcos has been to a few of their car meets and hopes to go to more while Bodenstab has yet to attend. “I haven’t gone to any meets..” which he followed with “so I will be looking forward to take part in club activities in the future.”
With such a large community that is ever growing Subarus and their owners take massive pride in what they drive. Developing friendships with people you may have never talked to prior, showing off the work they have done on their cars and spending time with others who share your passions are some of the key values.
