The SUBARU FORESTER (1997-02) 5DR ESTATE 4WD 2.0 is an early compact 4x4 estate, sitting between a practical family wagon and the taller, more rugged SUVs common in the UK today. Its five-door layout and four-wheel drive make it more versatile than an ordinary estate, especially on slippery roads or rough tracks. Based on only two mycarcheck.com look-ups, this is a small snapshot: average private-sale valuation was £700, recorded mileage 140,000, and annual mileage 2,000. The vehicles averaged four previous keepers. These figures describe checked cars, not every Forester, so condition and service history matter when assessing an older example. With roomy cabin, estate space and all-weather grip, this Subaru suits families, dog owners and countryside drivers seeking practical transport over a city runabout. Compared with front-wheel-drive estates, the Forester is notable for its go-anywhere feel and design. Expect an older-car experience, and check fuel use, rust and maintenance carefully.