New member looking for advice

[Suubaaroo]

Hello fellow Subaru enthusiasts, I'm new to this forum and sorry if I've posted it on the wrong section... I'm looking to purchase a Subaru Impreza and I'm wondering what I should go for and what I should avoid... My budget maxes out at $8,000 though I'd like to spend less than this so I can have some money on the side for maintenance, etc.

Which generation shall I go for, second or third? Which engine shall I go for, EJ20 or EJ25?

Appreciate your help

[Suubaaroo]

I'm in Australia by the way and the writing is highlighted in blue as I've posted this question in ausubaru.com.au which has had no answers and I'm thinking that it's dead...