Top 15 Cars To Buy New Over Used - Subaru WRX and STI Are Number One

Should you buy a new or used Subaru WRX or WRX STI? A recent study from iSeeCars says the 2021 Subaru WRX is the number one sports car that is best to buy new over used. The new 2021 Subaru WRX and STI have the smallest price differences over "gently-used" versions.

The overall new car price difference is 17.0 percent new vs. used. The 2021 Subaru WRX and STI are 10.2 percent difference ($3,506) and number 13 in the iSeeCars top 15 cars best to buy new over a used model.

photo credit: Competition Subaru

In contrast, the Ford Mustang is the number one sports car that is best to buy used over a new model. It comes in at number 5 on the iSeeCars best to purchase used list. The price difference is 31.0 percent between a new and a used Mustang, which is $13,422.

Why do the WRX and STI hold their value?

Two automotive industry reports rank the Subaru brand the highest of any automaker in depreciating the least. Kelly Blue Book and ALG both rate the Subaru brand best of any mainstream automaker in retaining residual value. Another report reveals Subaru owners keep their vehicles longer, also keeping resale values high.

photo credit: Competition Subaru

ALG has consistently predicted the Subaru WRX and WRX STI to retain the highest percentage of their original price after four years better than any other sports car. This segment is typically known for its value dropping quicker, but not the WRX/STI sedans.

Subaru keeps inventory levels low on its new vehicles, which contribute to higher resale values. Subaru also keeps the value of a new WRX and STI high because they offer the lowest incentives and rebates of any automaker.

How does that help me when I trade or sell my vehicle?

Depreciation (loss of value) is typically your primary expense during ownership and shows shoppers which vehicle will be the best in resale value. Studies and awards let consumers know that Subaru vehicles retain their value better than all other automakers, even Toyota. This can make the most significant difference when you trade in your car after 3-5 years. You'll get more for your trade-in than other carmakers' vehicles.

What is the price of the 2021 WRX and STI?

The 2021 WRX comes in base 6-speed manual (MT) priced at $28,420, Premium 6MT ($30,970), Premium CVT automatic ($32,870), Limited 6MT ($33,020), and Limited CVT ($34,920). Pricing includes destination and delivery ($925).

WRX has two option packages. Navigation, Harman Kardon amplifier and speakers, Blind-Spot Detection, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert ($2,100.) The second option package with Navigation, Harman Kardon amplifier and speakers, Blind-Spot Detection/Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Auto Brake, and High Beam Assist cost $2,400.

The 2021 WRX STI comes in base trim starting at $38,170, WRX STI Limited with Wing or low profile trunk spoiler ($$42,870). Pricing includes destination and delivery ($925). STI offers one option package, Recaro front seats ($2,250.)

If you are looking to buy a sports car, the 2021 Subaru WRX and WRX STI have the lowest depreciation of all Subaru models, and it's best to buy new versus used.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: main image Competition Subaru