4th May, 2025 12:00
The Bolesworth Castle May 2025 Classic, Performance & Supercar Auction
1997 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type RA
***NO RESERVE***
Registration – R778 PHG
Chassis No. – GC8-058213
M.O.T. – April 2025
Odometer – 127,000KM (78,914M)
This fully restored 1997 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type RA has been owned by the vendor for the past seven years. During this time, they say it has received a full engine rebuild, with the flat-four motor, transmission and electrics all now described as being in ‘excellent’ condition. The rear arches have been resprayed, along with the front and rear bumper, with bodywork and paintwork now said to be in ‘good’ condition. The interior is also ‘excellent’, with a reconditioned driver’s seat.
As a Japanese domestic market special, ‘R778PHG’ was imported from Japan in late 2008. The car is UK-registered and the V5 is present. The car also has a plentiful history file from its current ownership. It has an odometer reading 127,000km, which is around 79,000 miles. The vendor adds it has an original spare wheel, original Subaru pouch and toolkit, two keys and two alarm fobs.
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. Type RA models took things a stage further – they were stripped-back editions designed for competition use, with less weight, a close-ratio gearbox and clever Driver Controlled Centre Differential, or DCCD. They were built on an order-only basis and are now extremely rare and collectable.
In summary:
- Rare and collectable 1997 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type RA
- Full engine rebuild means flat-four is now in ‘excellent’ condition
- Comes with plenty of history from current ownership
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £250 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £250 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Sold for £9,338
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)
Auction: The Bolesworth Castle May 2025 Classic, Performance & Supercar Auction, 4th May, 2025
Our May auction of classic, performance and supercars
Viewing Days:
Saturday 3rd May,12 noon - 6pm
Sunday 4th May, 9am - 12 noon
If you wish to consign your vehicle to this auction, you can request a valuation here or by calling one of the Hampson Auctions team on 01606 828124
Please click on the image below to discuss finance options with the Apollo Capital team led by Andy King and David Moss, experts in luxury, supercar & hypercar finance for more than 25 years. Before you bid, you must make sure you have the funds ready or have approved finance in principal with Apollo.
Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
If you prefer to contact us directly please call 01606 828 124 or email info@hampsonauctions.com
