Bar is only ghey if you're american. Most of the rest of the world uses bar. Get over it.

Yes, the stock boost gauge sucks, it's tiny and not very accurate.
I'd look for a stock WRX, one with no mods. Clean slate, do what you want, and you know where it's been. I had to go to Maryland 2 years ago to get my 04, but it's worth it to be picky and shop around.