1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi

This Subaru Impreza 22B is an ultra-rare rally-inspired special, enhanced by a number of subtle modifications for improved usability. Under the bonnet is the 2.2-litre turbocharged ‘EJ22G’ flat-four, producing around 276bhp and 268lb-ft of torque which is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, an electronically adjustable centre differential and a mechanical rear limited-slip differential. This example is a genuine Japanese market Impreza STI 22B and is number 258 of just 400 models produced for the home market. A further 24 cars were produced for export markets, making this 22B one of only 424 cars produced globally. The odometer reads just 71,003 km from new. The fabled Impreza 22B was created by Subaru to commemorate the marque’s 40th anniversary and its third consecutive manufacturer's title in the FIA World Rally Championship. Reputedly, within less than 48 hours of the 400 domestic market 22Bs being announced, every example was sold. The 22B is easily distinguished from other Subaru Imprezas of the era by its wide body which took inspiration from the Peter Stevens-designed WRC car. This very special Impreza 22B left the factory finished in the iconic Subaru hue of World Rally Blue, with black and blue fabric-trimmed seats accented by red stitching. It rides on the correct 17-inch gold BBS forged alloy wheels. The car is fitted with Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs mimicking the WRC car, and also features a Nardi leather-trimmed steering wheel, electric windows, electrically adjustable door mirrors, and air conditioning. An aftermarket Sony radio/CD player has been installed. Its original service book, some service history and a certification for the odometer will be included with the sale of the car. Modifications: Upgraded polished alloy radiator Upgraded front mounted polished alloy intercooler Greddy blow off valve Upgraded oil cooler Polished alloy breather catch Alloy windscreen wiper reservoir Battery relocated to boot to make extra room in the engine bay for intercooler pipes Upgraded Japanese entertainment system Apexi Power FC and Commander displaying engine and vehicle data Defi gauges including exterior, oil and coolant temperature and oil pressure Turbo timer 6-speed STI manual transmission Please refer to the photo gallery to assess exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: very few stone chips or blemishes to the paintwork, and some minor signs of use on the interior. The seller is not aware of any mechanical or electrical faults. The car was last serviced at 71,070 kilometres, which included replacing the engine oil, oil filter, fuel filter, and spark plugs. The previous oil service was carried out by ABC Tyrepower in December 2021. All prior servicing was reportedly undertaken in Japan. This Subaru Impreza 22B STi represents the incredibly rare opportunity to acquire one of the all-time great WRC-inspired specials; one often considered the ‘holy grail’ for collectors thanks to its wide-body shell and engine specification. This lightly modified example would make a superb addition to a collection of rally-bred performance icons, and promises to set the new owner’s pulse racing on their favourite roads and tracks. 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. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.