An iconic rally-derived performance hero in lightweight ‘STi Type RA Version 1’ configuration; the first in a lineage of high-performance saloons from Subaru. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre ‘EJ20’ flat-four, delivering approximately 276bhp and 235lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The Version 1 had reported build-to-order production of 50 units per month between November 1994 and August 1995 and was sold in the Japan domestic market only. This Impreza was exported from Japan in 2017 and has formed part of the seller’s private car collection in Australia for the last five years. The clutch and flywheel, radiator, intercooler, water pipes, wheels and tyres have been replaced during current ownership. This Impreza was exported from Japan to Hong Kong by the current owner in 2017 before being shipped to Australia when the owner moved in 2021. It has since formed part of his private collection and has covered less than 10,000 kilometres during this period, only being used on some weekends in good weather. The car is finished in white over a black and grey cloth cabin, punctuated by ‘STI’ front seat embroidery. The STi Type RA features a number of rally-orientated factory specifications including a stronger closed-deck block, close-ratio gearbox, quick steering rack, a Driver’s Control Centre Differential (DCCD), rear mechanical LSD, intercooler water spray, bolt-on roll cage, roof vent, Nardi steering wheel, as well as lightweighting measures including less sound deadening materials and thinner paint application. The car was specified with factory air conditioning and weighs around 1,200kg. It rides on a set of gold 17-inch Speedline alloy wheels with gold Brembo callipers and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres. The current owner added Defi gauges, a Fujitsubo silencer, STi S204 Brembo brakes, Cusco coilovers and a Clarion stereo. The car is accompanied by various invoices, the Hong Kong registration document, Australian import document, spare wheel and toolkit. The seller is not aware of any bodywork damage. The paintwork is reported to be original and in good condition, with stone chips on the front end, a paint chip on the roof vent, a scratch on the passenger-side wing mirror casing, and minor marks on the rear spoiler. Moving inside, the cabin presents well, showing minor wear on the seats, steering wheel, window winders, and roll cage. The seller is not aware of any mechanical or electrical faults. The most recent roadworthiness test took place in April 2021 for QLD registration purposes, and was said to result in a clean pass. An oil service was carried out by marque specialist Subi Evolution in October 2022 at 115,500 kilometres. Prior to this, Subi Evolution performed a major service in May 2021 when the car arrived in Australia. This included replacing the engine oil, oil filter, gearbox oil, front and rear differential oils, brake fluid, fuel filter, coolant, air filter, and timing belt. During the seller’s five-year ownership, the clutch, flywheel, radiator, intercooler, water pipes, wheels, and tyres have also been replaced. This Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type RA Version 1 is an exciting performance saloon, fitted as standard with a host of motorsport-derived equipment including a close-ratio gearbox, quick steering rack, roof vent, an intercooler water spray, and a roll cage. Having formed part of the seller’s private collection for the last five years and kept in strong mechanical order, this Impreza is ready to be put to the test on the road or track, where it promises to impress with its poise, acceleration, and handling. The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number.