Registration – R194 GNB

Chassis No. – GF8033206

M.O.T. – June 2025

Odometer – 115,000km (72,700 Miles)

This well-loved 1997 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Wagon was imported into the UK back in January 2004. The vendor says it has a comprehensive service history with bundles of receipts – in their ownership, it has only ever been to RH Motorsport, “the best Subaru specialists in the north west”. The vendor has religiously warmed it up carefully, and always cooled it down if the turbo has been used. “I have always maintained the oil and oil filter every 2,000 miles.” The odometer reads 115,000km, which is less than 71,500 miles, and the car has “minimal to no rust… the underside is immaculate”. It was recently fully undersealed with Waxoyl. They add that the silver bodywork “cleans up well for an almost-30-year-old car” and would simply benefit from a polish every now and again.

‘R194GNB’ has some choice modifications, including a Link G4 ECU and Stage 1 mapping by Andy Carr taking it up to 315hp. Straight-through downpipes combine with the standard three-inch exhaust from the factory, further enhancing that distinctive Subaru STI sound. Desirable features include the factory 16-inch wheels finished in gold, fitted with Toyo Proxes tyres all-round. The STI pink grille helps create that distinctive look, while inside, there is a Nardi Torino steering wheel and gearlever. The V5 is present and an HPI report shows this car as a Category D write-off. However, this dates back from October 2007, almost 18 years ago, in which time ‘R194GNB’ has built up a comprehensive history of maintenance and upkeep.

The Subaru Impreza WRX was made famous by Colin McRae’s WRC exploits behind the wheel of a Prodrive-prepared rally car. The exuberant Scot helped put the car on the map – and the fact it delivered exceptional performance, engaging handling and superb reliability for a strikingly affordable price meant a waiting list soon built. Even today, it will feel fast and thrilling, aided by grippy all-wheel drive. The STI was a high-performance WRX, for rally homologation, that was originally only offered in the Japanese home market. STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International. Compared to the WRX, they had blueprinted engines, transmission and suspension, along with more power. Today, they are the connoisseur’s choice.

In summary:

• Practical Subaru Impreza WRX STI Wagon
• Odometer reads the equivalent of less than 71,500 miles
• Very comprehensive service history