Subaru Impreza Driver's Club - (SIDC) FAQ from Scoobypedia.co.uk 03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM
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Subaru Impreza Driver’s Club
(SIDC) FAQ
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM
from Scoobypedia.co.uk
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b www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.htmlSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ i
Contents
1 SidcFaq (w) 2
2 Model History (w) 4
2.1 1994 & 1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.2 1996 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.3 1997 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.4 1998 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.5 1999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.6 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3 Special Editions (w) 7
3.1 UK Special Editions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Series McRae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Catalunya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Terzo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
22B “Type UK” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
RB5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Prodrive WR Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Prodrive P1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1.8GL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.2 European Special Editions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Netherlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.3 Australian/New Zealand Special Editions . . . . . . . . . 12
3.4 Japanese Special Editions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
STi 22B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4 Non Uk Impreza Models (w) 14
4.1 Australasia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.2 Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.3 North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5 Warranties (w) 16
6 General Specification (w) 18
6.1 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.2 Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.3 Gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.4 Gearbox mph per 1000 rpm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.5 Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.6 Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.7 Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.8 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.9 Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
7 Japanese Production Runs (w) 21
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ ii
8 Performance (w) 25
8.1 Standard Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
8.2 Modified Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
8.3 WRX/STi Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
8.4 Speedo Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
9 Servicing (w) 29
10 Fuel Consumption (w) 32
10.1 Type of Fuel to Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
10.2 The Fabled ECU Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
11 Running-In (w) 35
11.1 The first 1,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
12 Starting And Stopping Engine (w) 36
13 Common problems, symptoms and remedies (w) 37
13.1 Dump Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
13.2 Waste gate solenoid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
How Things Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
13.3 Exhaust manifold heat shield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
13.4 Interior mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
13.5 Clutch judder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . when cold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . when hot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
13.6 Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
13.7 Radio resetting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
13.8 Brake Pipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
13.9 Porous 15” Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
13.10 ECU bug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
13.11 Worn anti-roll bar bushes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
13.12 ABS Isn’t Magic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
13.13 Use of low octane fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
13.14 Piston Slap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
14 Modifications (w) 46
14.1 Engine (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
14.2 Wheels (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
14.3 Tyres (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
15 Inch Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
16 Inch Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
17 Inch Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Speed Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Tyre Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Expected Tyre Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
14.4 Exhausts (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
14.5 Suspension (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Suspension Upgrade Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Steering Geometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ iii
Strut Braces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
14.6 Electrical (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Headlight Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Driving Lamp Conversion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Twin-Headlight Conversion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
14.7 Brakes (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
14.8 Styling Modifications (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Exterior Styling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Interior Styling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
14.9 Audio (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Fitting CD Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Fitting speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
14.10 Miscellaneous (w) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Bonnet Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
14.11 Warranties and the effect of modifications (w) . . . . . . . 59
What is Not Covered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
15 Suppliers (w) 61
15.1 Prodrive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
15.2 MRT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
15.3 ScoobySport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
15.4 BGT Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
15.5 Graham Goode Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
15.6 Demon Tweeks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.7 Superchips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.8 Boost Performance Motorsport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.9 Regal Autosport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.10 Autosportif . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.11 DMA Motorsport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.12 APS (Australia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
15.13 SPD Tuning Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
15.14 Scoobymania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
15.15 BR Developments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
15.16 WRX/STi Parts in the UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
16 Security (w) 64
17 Insurance (w) 65
18 Importing Japanese Specification Cars (w) 66
18.1 Import Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
19 What The Press Think (w) 68
19.1 Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Performance Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Car Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
What Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Auto Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Top Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ iv
Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
19.2 Quotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
19.3 Accolades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
19.4 Magazine Back Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
19.5 Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
20 Useful Contacts (w) 72
20.1 Internet Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
20.2 Internet Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
21 Owners Clubs (w) 75
21.1 SIDC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
About the club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
About club events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Contact Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
21.2 IWOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
21.3 Australasian Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
New Zealand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
21.4 Netherlands Subaru Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
21.5 German Impreza GT Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
21.6 Subaru WRX Club Switzerland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
21.7 Subaru Impreza Club of Sweden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
21.8 Belgian Subaru Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
21.9 North American Subaru Impreza Owners Club . . . . . . 77
21.10 Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
22 Acronyms and other “odd” information (w) 79
22.1 Pronunciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
22.2 Nicknames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
22.3 Logo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
22.4 Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
22.5 Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
22.6 Where can I rent an Impreza ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
22.7 “Interesting” quotes from Owners Manual . . . . . . . . . 81
22.8 Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
The Bright Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
That Switch on top of the Steering Column . . . . . . . . 81
The Centre Diff Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
22.9 Trivia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
The Impreza Coin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
23 RevisionHistory (w) 84
24 Copyright (w) 86
24.1 General Conditions of Reproduction . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 1
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 2
1 SidcFaq (w)
This FAQ was constructed to assist both existing and potential owners of one of
motoring’s best kept secrets, the Subaru Impreza. Although primarily aimed at
turbocharged models, it is hoped that much of the information will be of interest
to owners of normally aspirated Imprezas.
This document was created on the 8th March 1998 by John Stewart, Steve Breen,
Adam Curtin and Peter Croney with the essential assistance of the members of
the SIDC and IWOC mailing lists and (in later versions) by readers of the FAQ
worldwide. This is your FAQ, so please email faq@sidc.co.uk [faq@sidc.co.uk]
with additions, corrections or queries.
The style of this document is a bit different from conventional FAQs, which have
a question-and-answer structure. Instead, we’ve taken things which you want to
know and put in more of a referency style. This means that we can sneakily add
in things which aren’t “frequently asked” but which we think you ought to know
anyway!
Feel free to browse the FAQ trail below. Links to previous and next trail pages
can be found in the footer of each page.
• Model History (p 4)
• Special Editions (p 7)
• Non Uk Impreza Models (p 14)
• Warranties (p 16)
• General Specification (p 18)
• Japanese Production Runs (p 21)
• Performance (p 25)
• Servicing (p 29)
• Fuel Consumption (p 32)
• Running-In (p 35)
• Starting And Stopping Engine (p 36)
• Common problems, symptoms and remedies (p 37)
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 3
• Modifications (p 46)
– Engine (p 46)
– Wheels (p 47)
– Tyres (p 50)
– Exhausts (p 52)
– Suspension (p 53)
– Electrical (p 54)
– Brakes (p 57)
– Styling Modifications (p 57)
– Audio (p 58)
– Miscellaneous (p 59)
– Warranties and the effect of modifications (p 59)
• Suppliers (p 61)
• Security (p 64)
• Insurance (p 65)
• Importing Japanese Specification Cars (p 66)
• What The Press Think (p 68)
• Useful Contacts (p 72)
• Owners Clubs (p 75)
• Acronyms and other “odd” information (p 79)
• RevisionHistory (p 84)
• Copyright (p 86)
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 4
2 Model History (w)
2.1 1994 & 1995
The Impreza was first introduced to the UK in 1994, initially as a five door hatch-
back/estate, and later as a 4 door saloon. A number of different models were
available, with a choice of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 litre engines, and a choice of either
front or four wheel drive.
2.2 1996
In the UK, the 1.6, 1.8 and front wheel drive derivatives were never great sellers,
and were dropped from the range in 1996 (although many are still doing sterling
service as Subaru dealers’ courtesy cars!), leaving the 2.0 GL, 2.0 Sport and 2000
Turbo models. The last few examples of the ‘96 Turbo model received the revised
brake callipers of the ‘97 model.
Figure 2: Impreza History
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 5
2.3 1997
Over the years, Subaru has constantly improved the cars, addressing many of
the criticisms raised against the earlier cars. The most significant changes were
introduced late in 1996 as part of the 1997 model year. The external changes
were relatively minimal, with a new style bonnet and a more aggressive nose.
The Turbo model received a revised engine with a higher compression ratio, low
friction pistons, smaller turbo and revised engine management system. Power
output was unchanged at 208 bhp, but maximum torque increased by 5% to 214 lb
ft at a lower 4,000 rpm. The suspension was also revised and improved, with the
turbo receiving a new/thicker rear anti-roll bar. Brake calipers were also revised.
For 1997, the turbo also received much improved sports seats, replacing the
unattractive non-sporty seats of previous models. The seats are still not ideal
though, as there is a difference of opinion amongst owners. Many owners find
them somewhat lacking in lower back support, whilst others just report them as
fantastic.
The ICE system was also changed from the Subaru badged Panasonic radio cas-
sette to a badged Philips unit with removable fascia, and the heater controls
changed.
2.4 1998
1998 saw a major overhaul of the interior, with the introduction of a new dash-
board, taken from the Forester, featuring white dials, a computerised odometer
and a low fuel light. Other improvements include a passenger airbag, Momo
leather steering wheel, leather covered handbrake lever and a shorter throw gear
lever. ICE equipment remained the same but the apertures and grills (and report-
edly wiring) for the “tweeter kit” is supplied as standard. Revised inner door
panels and centre console that includes the current trend for putting cup holders
in cars, completes the changes. The only external changes are the 16 inch alloys
on 205/50 VR16 Bridgestone Potenza tyres now fitted as standard to the Turbo
model.
2.5 1999
The 1999 car continues the trend of fitting parts from the Japanese STi cars, in-
cluding the front seats (although with a bit more padding) including height adjust-
ment for the drivers seat; 4-pot front brake calipers and vented rear discs; and the
high rear wing. Suspension, in line with STis, is now considerably firmer.
The front bumper has been slightly modified, being a little deeper and with just
one vane (instead of two) and a naff orange plastic wedge outside the fog lights.
The bumper now passes a 5 mph impact test. The fog lights and headlights have
multifaceted reflectors and clear lenses.
The engine is a “Phase 2” boxer incorporating some changes to the head, and
claimed power output is 7 bhp higher at 215 bhp (although torque stays the same).
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 6
Inside, the car benefits from cup holders and a slightly different Momo steering
wheel. The car is at last fitted with a Thatcham “Category 1” alarm and immo-
biliser.
The price has risen by a very reasonable (in view of the changes) £1200, now
taking the car over the £20,000 mark.
2.6 2000
The 2000 car added some minor but welcome changes to the 1999 model, follow-
ing the theme of contunual development.
The most obvious changes are the wheel design. Out went the much loved curved
5 spoke design, to be replaced with a 6 slender spoke design. Opinions on the
new wheel style are generally mixed, but more owners prefer the older 5 spoke
design to the newer one.
Other changes include colour coded mirrors and door handles, adjustable inter-
mittent wiper speeds, remote central locking (was already fitted prior to delivery
for UK cars with the alarm system), a metallic fascia, map reading lights and a
new gear knob.
The very popular Dark Blue Mica colour was replaced by a slightly lighted Deep
Blue Mica, and a new Red Mica Metallic colour was added to the range.
The Impreza has been in the same basic form for nearly 8 years now, and a com-
pletely new model is expected for the 2001 model year.
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 7
3 Special Editions (w)
One of the main aims of motor sport for any manufacturer (rallying in particular),
is to promote their cars on a world stage. Many manufacturers produce limited
edition and homologation specials to “celebrate” their successes. Subaru are no
exception to this game and have been quick to introduce a series of limited edition
models throughout the world to help gives their many fans a chance to own a part
of history. Other famous examples include the Clio Williams ranges introduced
by Renault, and the Carlos Sainz version of the Toyota Celica GT4 Turbo.
3.1 UK Special Editions
Series McRae
In June 1995, to celebrate their winning of both the manufacturers and drivers
World Rally Championship titles, Subaru in the UK released a limited edition run
of two hundred cars (numbered 1 to 201 - no number 13!) prepared by Prodrive
(p 61) going by the name of the Series McRae. The main improvements over the
standard model are:
• Special mica blue paintwork
• 6.5 x 16 inch eight spoke gold Speedline Safari alloy wheels
• Pirelli P Zero 205/50 ZR 16 low profile tyres
• Recaro sports front seats with open headrests and Series McRae motifs
• All seats (front and back) and door panelling retrimmed in Le Mans/Avus
material
• Factory fitted electric tilt and slide sunroof
• Interior numbered Series McRae plaque
• Side and rear Series McRae decals
On the road price was £22,999
Catalunya
In 1996, Subaru again won the manufacturers title in the FIA World Rally Cham-
pionship, finally winning the title with the points gained on the Catalunya rally
of Spain. To celebrate this, another limited edition run of 200 cars (again with
no number 13) was produced, this time going by the name of the Catalunya (I
wonder why?) The main features of the “Cats”, as they are commonly known as
are:
• Special black mica paintwork (red metallic flecks)
• Colour matched door mirrors
• Gold Alloys (same ones as fitted to 2.0 Sport, but painted gold)
• Front and rear seats and side door panelling re-trimmed in black with red
highlights
• Short rally style gear knob (initial sales blurb promised a quick shift!)
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 8
• Carbon fibre effect dashboard
• Air conditioning
• Special floor mats (black with red trim and Catalunya logo)
• Side and rear Catalunya decals
• Interior numbered Catalunya plaque
The first examples were registered during March 1997, for an on the road price
of £21,610. Note that some dealers decided to cash in on tremendous demand for
“Cats”, and fitted leather seats, sunroof and other options to all their Cats, forcing
buyers to hand over significantly more money than the list price, increasing their
profit margin on each car sold.
Terzo
1997 saw Subaru win the WRC manufacturers title for a third time in succession.
Even before the official announcement to the UK Subaru dealers, rumours were
circulating over the inevitable release of a third special edition, with the possible
specification suggested being very close to the final car. Available from April
1998 onwards, at an on the road price of £22,995, a total of 333 “Terzo” special
editions have been produced (numbered 1 to 334, omitting 13). Terzo is Italian
for third. This is to celebrate the third WRC championship victory in a row, and
hence the third special edition. Specification for the Terzo is as follows:
• Special mica blue paintwork (similar but not identical to the current WRC
cars)
• Current style 16 inch alloys, but painted gold
• Air conditioning
• Alacantra + suede effect interior trim (Same front seats as fitted to recent
STi models, but without embroidered STi logo, and red shoulder flashes)
• Interior number Terzo plaque
• Cobra 6422 Thatcham Category 1 alarm with remote central locking
• Side and rear Terzo decals
• Special Terzo floor mats
• Non folding rear seat
22B “Type UK”
In late 1998, Subaru UK officially imported 16 22Bs (described below (p 12)),
and passed them on to Prodrive for modification. The UK cars differ from the
privately imported 22Bs, not just in their 3 year factory warranty, but with revised
gear ratios more suited to UK roads. The was acheived by changing the final
drive ratio from 3.9 to 4.44 to lengthen the gearing. Cosmetically, the car got the
headlights from the ‘99 model, UK rear light clusters and driving lights (not fog
lights!) were fitted where the normal 22B has blanking plates. From the back,
you can tell you’re looking at one of the rarest cars in the world by the “Type
UK” and “Prodrive” stickers. The price was £39,950, and demand for the cars
was overwhelming.
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 9
Interestingly, Subaru UK were not able to put their 16 cars through the Single
Vehicle Approval scheme because the maximum of 50 privately imported 22Bs
had already been registered in 1998. Consequently the Type UKs were registered
in 1999. The cars do not meet European Type Approval regulations for noise and
emissions.
RB5
To celebrate Richard Burns’ first year in the Subaru World Rally Team, the RB5 (5
was the number Richard used during the 1999 WRC championship) was launched
to critical acclaim by the press. 444 examples of this car were made available to
the general public. A “WR Sport” version of the car was available at extra cost,
specified at delivery time by the first owner.
• Blue Steel metallic paintwork
• Fully colour-coded exterior (mirrors, door handles, skirts and driving lamp
covers)
• Blue ‘Alcantara’ and suede-effect interior trim, with black ‘jersey’ surround
on seats
• Special graphite trim for the centre console
• Air conditioning
• Unique titanium/pewter coloured 17in, 6 spoke Speedline alloy wheels with
Pirelli ‘P Zero’ 205/45 ZR17 tyres
• PIAA front driving light conversion
• Prodrive quickshift
• Roof-mounted map reading lamps
• RB5 side and rear decals (and also on driving light covers)
• RB5 embossed carpet mats
• RB5 interior-mounted, numbered plaque “Limited Edition” only 444 avail-
abl
• On the road price: £24,995
WR Sport Performance Package
Prodrive High wing (similar to the new STi 5 but with the brake light on the wing
rather than boot lid)
Prodrive Performance pack, consiting of Prodrive ECU, exhaust and revised in-
tercooler piping.
On the road price: £27,500
Prodrive WR Sport
Take the standard Impreza Turbo from new and add the full Prodrive (p 61) inte-
rior treatment, suspension package, body kit, wheels with exclusive WR interior
and exterior badging (engine upgrade not compulsory) and an official World Rally
Sport limited edition of the Impreza Turbo is yours (for £30,000).
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 10
Prodrive P1
Throughout 1999, there were strong rumours that the UK market was at long last
going to receive a Japanese specification Impreza, with improved levels of over-
all performance. A two door white Impreza Turbo running on 17 inch gold al-
loys and Prodrive number plates had been spotted several times. September 22nd
1999, Autocar magazine run a scoop showing this very same white car, along with
a glowing write-up, and an estimated price tag of £30k. Despite having a few in-
consistencies (eg 2.2 litre engine with 350bhp!), the article answered many of the
questions enthusiasts across the country had been asking for many weeks. The
white car was actually a prototype for the forthcoming UK spec Impreza supercar.
Based on the 2 door Impreza body shell (but without the wide arches of the 22B).,
the car had been developed by Prodrive during the previous year in conjunction
with Fuji Heavy Industries and Subaru Tecnica International in Japan. It had
been designed from day 1 to be Subaru UK ? s response to both ? grey imports ?
and the phenomenal Mitsubishi EVO 6, which had been receiving rave reviews
all year long. “Shock Subaru Announcement - New UK Spec 280 PS Impreza
Turbo” was the title of the press release, which ran to a full 9 pages. This car was
to be called the Prodrive P1 (Prodrive One), would have the full 280PS (276bhp)
of the Japanese spec cars and carried a full 3 year warranty with support from all
Subaru UK dealers. This astonishing car had been painstakingly developed, and
not only met all requirements necessary for full European Type Approval, but
also set class-leading standards for both ride and handling. The main features of
the car are as follows:
• 2 Door Saloon Body
• Available exclusively in Sonic Blue, similar to the WRC cars, and the same
as the 22B
• 280PS engine, with an estimated 260 lb/ft of torque
• Top speed of 155mph, 0–60 in 4.6 seconds
• Special Hella driving lamps
• Specially Designed “Titanium” 10-spoke O.Z. 17 x 7 alloy wheels
• High Ratio Steering Rack
• Ventilated front and rear brakes
• Shorter throw “Quickshift” gearchange
• 4 Channel ABS brakes
• Rear wiper
• Specially designed aerodynamically superior front and rear spoilers
• Category 1 alarm/immobiliser, and RAC Trackstar tracking system
• Air Conditioning
A production run of 1,000 cars was eventually produced, and there were some
delays in getting the earlier cars to customers, following production problems
with some of the parts fitted here in the UK.
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 11
1.8GL
A very special special! In 1993 Subaru UK brought in 6 Impreza WRX RSs, the
development car which led to the RA. Due to type approval regulations, the cars
were registered as 1.8GLs! 3 went to Prodrive and were presumably smashed to
bits in a forest, while 3 went to Subaru UK who later sold them as used cars. At
least one is known still to exist. Yes, it says 1.8GL on the registration document.
Yes, it has a 2 litre engine with a huge turbo under the bonnet . . .
3.2 European Special Editions
In Europe, there have been some special editions in blue known as the 555.
France
Mark Mansfield provided the following info . . .
‘96 Model ‘555’
• Black WRX bucket seats trimmed with grey Alacantra
• Black dashboard
• 555 Blue paintwork
• Gold wheels
• No split rear seat
• Nardi leather steering wheel and gear knob
• Cost FRF165 000 (compared to FRF 155 000 for standard model) Ex-
change rate was about 8F to the £
‘97 Model ‘555’
• Red trim on black seats (all models now have bucket seats and Nardi steer-
ing wheel)
• Blue paintwork
• Gold wheels
• Cost FRF 166 500 (FRF 159 000 for standard model)
‘97 Model ‘WRX’ As for ‘555’ plus:
• Metallic blue paint (like the WRC)
• WRX sticker and number on boot, front wings, and inside (very tacky and
cheap).
‘98 Model ‘WRX’
• Black paint
• Gold wheels
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 12
Netherlands
The Netherlands have had ‘96 and ‘98 555 specials, which seem to be similar to
the French WRX versions described above.
Italy
Italy had a 5 door special in blue mica with red trimmed black seats similar to the
Catalunya.
3.3 Australian/New Zealand Special Editions
97 ‘Club Spec’ (possibly as part of ‘97 model run-out)
• Either four or five door
• Special blue mica paint
• Gold 15” wheels
• Red inserts on seats
• Special ‘Club Spec’ decals.
98 ‘Silver Anniversary’
• Either 4 or 5 door
• Limited numbers
• Special black mica paint
• Gold wheels (std ‘98 config.)
• CD player (not autochanger)
• Leather trim on non-standard seats (seats appear to be from the non-turbo
RX model - not wrap around)
• Automatic transmission
98 ‘Club Spec EVO 2’
• Special blue mica paint
• Quick-shift gear change
• 16 inch gold alloy wheels
• Seats and side trim as per STi3 (red/black with grey suede plus blue 555
logos)
• Nardi steering wheel
• Leather shroud for gear stick rather than moulded gator
• Tracker Security system
• Club Spec decals
• AU $47k on the road
Many thanks to William Fletcher and Ralph Douglas for the above info.
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 13
3.4 Japanese Special Editions
STi 22B
This stunning machine is based on the 1997 World Rally Championship-winning
car. Only 399 were built for sale to the domestic market (another 25 were made
for overseas markets) and they pre-sold almost instantly in early 1998, although
many of those sales were to importers hoping to sell the car immediately. In Japan
the car was sold for a retail price of about £28,000, but by the time they appeared
in the UK as grey imports, many were sold for over £40k!! There are three cars
known to have been issued with the 000 number, belonging to Dave Richards of
Prodrive, Colin McRae and Nicky Grist. Colin and Nicky both purchased their
cars directly form Subaru for an undisclosed sum.
Features include
• 2.2 litre engine restricted to 280 PS (276 bhp) for the Japanese domestic
market.
• seam-welded body shell (supposedly identical in shape to the WRC)
• Driver-adjustable front/rear diff
• Twin-plate racing clutch
• Quick steering rack (13:1 ratio)
• Adjustable rear wing
• revised suspension and bigger brakes over the STi 4
• 7.5 x 17” BBS alloy wheels with 235/40 ZR17 tyres
• Blue alacantra seats and interior trim
• Nardi (non-airbag) steering wheel
• Uniquely numbered identity plate (1 to 400, with No 13 not being issued)
(A reader has pointed out that 22B in hexadecimal is 555 in decimal . . . )
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 14
4 Non Uk Impreza Models (w)
4.1 Australasia
In the UK the 208/214 bhp Impreza is officially known as the Impreza Turbo
2000. In Australia and New Zealand, the same Impreza is known as the WRX.
In Europe and other markets (e.g. South America), the model is known as the
Impreza GT. Apart from minor regional variations (climate control instead of air-
con, cruise control, automatic transmission, special editions, heated seats etc.),
the cars are essentially identical: 2.0 Turbo, 208/214 bhp, and a quoted 0–62 mph
(100 km/h) time of about 6.2 - 6.4 seconds.
The 280 PS WRX models are also available as official imports in Brunei, Hong
Kong and Singapore, and Cyprus. Automatic versions are also available, but only
in 250 PS 5 door (wagon) form.
In January 1999 there were 400 STi V coupes officially imported to Australia, in
a choice of blue or white. Sold at AU$60k, demand was such that they could be
immediately resold at a premium of up to 30%!
In December 1999, the Autralian market was fortunate to receive a further 400
STi models (4 doors) based on the STi VI. Rumours pesisted that this version had
been detuned following some blown engines with the pervious STi model, but
several independant tests have found the performance of the cars to be virtually
identical.
4.2 Japan
In Japan, home of Subaru Impreza, the standard model is known as the WRX
(not to be confused with the Australian WRX). Most of the current 2 and 4 door
models produce 280 PS (276 BHP), on Japanese 100 RON super unleaded fuel,
and between 240 to 260 lb ft of torque. Acceleration times are close to 5 seconds
for the 0–62 sprint, however top speeds are limited by Japanese law to 112 mph. A
Japanese gentleman’s agreement also prevents any production vehicle producing
over 280 PS (276 bhp), hence a number of vehicles quote this as their standard
output, but are widely accepted to produce more.. Bypassing the speed limiter and
releasing more power from the engine can be simply achieved by certain under
bonnet modifications, including changes to the engine management system.
Also available in Japan, are Subaru models modified by Subaru’s advanced vehi-
cle division, STi (Subaru Tecnica International). STi are responsible, along with
Prodrive (p 61) in the UK, for creating the WRC cars driven by the likes of Colin
McRae and Richard Burns. Over the years, they have produced a number of
production models (STi versions 1 to VI), in coupe, saloon and five door format.
They have also released a number of limited edition models such as the V-Limited
range and the 22B-STi wide bodied Coupe. Specifications for the STi models can
include blueprinted engines, with different pistons and crankshaft, closed deck
blocks, uprated close ratio gearbox, uprated suspension (i.e. hard!) and brakes,
as well as nice toys such as water spray cooling for the intercooler, and driver
adjustable differentials. STi engines rev to a 8250 rpm red line whilst the normal
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 15
Japanese spec WRX’s red line at 7500 rpm. Typically, the equipment specifi-
cation of the Japanese WRX models are higher than that of the standard export
models.
The Japanese spec WRX STi is also available as the 2-door coupe “Type R”,
which has the same equipment as a STi saloon plus driver-controlled diffs, and an
intercooler water spray, but no ABS!.
The “Type RA” (Race Altered) is a lighter weight car with some options deleted
and deemed the most suitable model in the range as the basis for a rally car. Gen-
erally they come without air conditioning, electric windows or radio, but these
are available from the options list, and fitted to many road cars. The RA comes
with a closed deck block, shorter gearing than standard (150mph at 8,000 rpm!),
and rally style vent(s)/flap(s) on the roof.
When imported into the UK, the Japanese specification WRX retail price is ap-
proximately 25–100% higher than the standard Impreza Turbo 2000 model, de-
pending on exchange rate, body style and options chosen. More detail on the
specification of these cars can be found on the IWOC 1 web site. For more infor-
mation on importing these desirable cars, see Importing Japanese Cars (p 66).
4.3 North America
The Impreza Turbo has not been sold to date in the US, partly due to emission
regulations, and perhaps also because of the perceived lack of demand for a small-
engined Japanese performance car. Instead, the Impreza range is topped by the
2.5RS, with a 165 bhp normally-aspirated engine (which still sports an intercooler
intake on the bonnet). This car almost has as much of a cult following in the US
and Canada, as the turbo models have in markets where they are available. Due
to the excellent interchangability of parts, many owners have imporeved their RS
by fitting aftermarket wheels, suspension and exhausts, as well as basic styling
features such as spoliers and stickers etc. There is now a flourishing performance
market in the US, with both turbo and supercharger conversions available.
However, all this is due to change for the year 2001 (MY2002 in the US!), when
factory turbo Imprezas are due to be sold from Subaru dealers across the conti-
nent. No firm details are yet known regarding price and specification, but it is
most likely to be based on the export models that the rest of the world recieves
(~220bhp).
The “Outback Sport” is the Impreza 5-door with 2.2 litre engine, slightly in-
creased ground clearance, two-tone paint, hood scoops, and various sport utility
vehicle options as standard.
1 www.iwoc.co.uk
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 16
5 Warranties (w)
The details in this section are with regards to the UK supplied and owned Im-
prezas. Details may and will vary from country to country. In the UK, the war-
ranty lasts for three years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. To keep the
warranty in force, Subaru insist that the car is serviced in accordance with their
recommendations by Subaru approved dealers.
Certain “consumable” items, such as tyres, brakes, exhaust, clutch and items
changed at specific services are not covered by this warranty, unless their failure
was caused by manufacturing defects.
Also, the second and third years of the warranty (the Extended Limited Warranty)
applies to:
• All Mechanical Components
• All Electrical Components
• All Trim Components
But not to any defects in sheet metal, body panels or paintwork.
Given the low cost of servicing and high replacement costs of many parts, it is
very rare to find any Impreza that has not been routinely maintained by Subaru.
The warranty, like other manufacturers is only valid for approved Subaru parts
and accessories. See Warranties and the effect of modifications (p 59) for more
details.
In the UK, we are probably in the unique position of having high quality approved
performance parts available from Prodrive (p 61) (get the WR Sport brochure
from your dealer). The fitting of these parts is approved and actively promoted
by Subaru, and doesn’t affect your warranty in any way. The parts are expensive
(Prodrive, Subaru UK and your local dealer all have their profit margins on them),
but then again quality never was and never will be cheap. Prodrive argue that
their kit increases the value of the car while some replacement kit decreases it . . .
which is probably true if you sell to a dealer, and may be true for some private
buyers too.
Bodywork is covered by a 6 year anti-corrosion warranty, subject to inspection
and re-treatment (at owners expense) 12 months, 36 months and 60 months after
first registration. Paintwork is covered by a 1 year warranty.
If things should go wrong (even in the event of an accident) - and they rarely
do - then the car is covered by a comprehensive 3 year recovery and assistance
programme valid both in the UK and Europe. Cover includes vehicle recovery,
home and roadside assistance and a 24 hour 7 day a week helpline and message
service.
We are glad to report that both the recovery service and warranty provided by
Subaru UK are superb. In one case, a car which was just under 3 years old (by a
matter of days), and had just exceeded the 60,000 mile mark was recovered from
Europe following the failure of an engine component, and all new parts fitted by
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 17
the dealer in the UK without problem (apart from the delay in receiving such
rarely needed parts!).
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 18
6 General Specification (w)
Specifications are for 4-door Turbo 4WD 2000, manual transmission, European
model
Notes to table below:
1. The published figure for final reduction (3.545) is incorrect: Tests, and
Subaru sources, show that the true figure is 3.9
2. Calculated for 205/50VR16 tyres. Values for 205/55VR15 and
205/45VR17 are 0.8% lower and higher respectively
3. Did pre-96 cars have a 50 litre tank?
6.1 Dimensions
Dimensions
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999 - 2000
Length 4340mm 4350mm
Width 1690mm
Height 1400mm
Ground clearance 150mm
Track Front: 1465mm, Rear: 1455mm
Weight Kerb 1235kg (5 door 1270kg), Gross 1750kg (5 door 1800kg)
Wheelbase 2520mm
Turning Circle 10.4m
6.2 Engine
Engine
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999 - 2000
Type 4 cylinder, boxer layout, 1994cc
Construction Aluminum alloy head and block
Valve Gear 4 per cylinder, DOHC
Compression ratio 8.0:1
Power 208 bhp@6000 rpm 215 bhp@5600 rpm
Torque 201 lb ft@4800 rpm 214 lbft@4000 rpm
Bore x Stroke 92.0mm x 75.0mm
Fuel Grade 95 RON Unleaded (MINIMUM) fuel (p 32)
6.3 Gearbox
Gearbox
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 19
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999 - 2000
Type 5 speed manual
Ratio: 1st 3.454
Ratio: 2nd 1.947
Ratio: 3rd 1.366
Ratio: 4th 0.972
Ratio: 5th 0.738
Ratio: reverse 3.416
Ratio: Final reduction (note 1) 3.9
6.4 Gearbox mph per 1000 rpm
Gearbox mph per 1000 rpm (note 2)
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999 - 2000
1st 5.32
2nd 9.43
3rd 13.44
4th 18.89
5th 24.88
6.5 Wheels
Wheels
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999
Size 6 x 15 inch alloy 7 x 16 inch
Toe Front 0 ± 3mm, Rear 0 ± 3mm
Camber Front 0°, Rear −1°
6.6 Tyres
Tyres
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999
Size 205/55 VR 15 205/50 VR 16
Type Michelin MXV Pilot Bridgestone Potenza RE71
Pressure Front 33psi, Rear 32psi Front 33psi, Rear 28psi
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 20
6.7 Brakes
Brakes
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999
Front 270 mm ventilated discs 292mm ventilated discs with 4-pot callipers
Rear 230 mm solid discs 230mm? ventilated discs
6.8 Electrical
Electrical
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999
Battery 55D23L-MF, 12V/48AH
Alternator 12V/75AH
Spark plugs NGK PFR6G/PFR6B
Spark plug gap 1.0 to 1.1mm
6.9 Capacities
Capacities
Year 1994–6 1997 1998 1999
Fuel (note 3) 60 litres
Engine oil 4.5 litres
Transmission oil 4.0 litres
Rear diff gear oil 0.8 litres
Power steering fluid 0.7 litres
Engine coolant 7.2 litres
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 21
7 Japanese Production Runs (w)
The 7 digit “applied model” code found on the vehicle identification plate inside
the engine bay is decoded in the following way.
1. Series code G=Impreza S=Forester B=Legacy etc.
2. Body type F=Wagon C=Sedan
3. Engine type 8=2.0L Turbo
4. Year code A=MY93 B=MY94 C=MY95&96 D=MY97 (facelift) E=MY98
F=MY99 G=MY00
5. Number of doors 2=2 door coupe 4=4 door saloon 5=5 door wagon/hatch
6. Model type 8=WRX 7=RA type E=Sti D=Sti Type R & RA
7. Transmission D=5 Speed Manual AWD P=4 Speed Automatic AWD
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 22
Year Manufac- Model Power Name Comment
(Code) tured Code (PS)
A Nov.92- GC8A48D 240 WRX 4 door First Impreza Turbo
Sep.93
MY93
A GC8A47D 240 WRX RA 4 door
B Oct.93- GC8B48D 240 WRX 4 door
Aug.94
MY94
B GC8B47D 240 WRX RA 4 door
B GC8B48D 250 WRX STi 4 door First appearance of STi,
modified from production
WRX
B GF8B58D 220 WRX 5 door First appearance of 5 door
B GF8B58D 220 WRX SA 5 door Auto transmission fitted after
production
B GF8B58D 250 WRX STi 5 door As per WRX STi 4 door,
modified from production
vehicle.
C1 Sep.94- GC8C48D 260 WRX 4 door
Aug.95
MY95
C1 GC8C47D 260 WRX RA 4 door
C1 GC8C47D 275 WRX RA Modified from production
STi 4 door WRX
C1 GF8C58D 220 WRX 4 door
C2 Sep.95- GC8C48D 260 WRX 4 door
Aug.96
MY96
C2 GC8C47D 260 WRX RA 4 door
C2 GC8C4ED 275 WRX STi2 4 door First full production STi
C2 GC8C4ED 275 WRX STi2 Special edition
555 4 door
C2 GC8C4DD 275 WRX RA STi First full production STi RA
C2 GC8C4DD 275 WRX RA Special edition
STi2
V-Limited
C2 GF8C58D 220 WRX 5 door
C2 GF8C58D 260 WRX STi2 5 door
C2 GF8C58D 260 WRX STi2 Special edition
555 5 door
C2 GF8C58P 220 WRX 5 door AT First production automatic
transmission
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 23
Year Manufactured Model Power Name Comment
(Code) Code (PS)
D Sep.96-Aug.97 GC8D2DD 300 WRX STi R 2 First 2 door coupe
MY97 (Facelift) door
D GC8D48D 280 WRX 4 door
D GC8D47D 280 WRX RA 4 door
D GC8D4ED 300 WRX STi3 4 door
D GC8D4ED 300 WRX STi3 Special edition
V-Limited 4 door
D GC8D4DD 300 WRX RA STi3
D GF8D58D 240 WRX 5 door
D GF8D5ED 300 WRX STi3 5 door
D GF8D5ED 300 WRX STi3 Special edition
V-Limited 5 door
D GF8D58P 240 WRX 5 door AT
E Sep.97-Aug.98 GC8E2DD 300 WRX R STi4 2
MY98 door
E GC8E2DD 300 WRX R STi4 Special edition
V-Limited 2 door
E GC8E2SD 300 WRX R STi 22B Wide bodied 2.2
litre special edition
E GC8E27D 300 WRX RA Special edition 2
V-Limited 2 door door RA
E GC8E48D 280 WRX 4 door
E GC8E47D 280 WRX RA 4 door
E GC8E4ED 300 WRX STi4 4 door
E GC8E4DD 300 WRX RA STi4 4 door
E GC8E4DD 300 WRX RA STi4 4 Special edition
door V-Limited
E GF8E58D 280 WRX 5 door
E GF8E5ED 300 WRX STi4 5 door
E GF8E58P 240 WRX 5 door AT
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 24
Year Manufactured Model Power Name Comment
(Code) Code (PS)
F Sep.98-Aug.99 GC8F2DD 300 WRX R STi5 2 door
MY99
F GC8F2DD 300 WRX R STi5 Special edition
V-Limited 2 door
F GC8F27D 300 WRX RA V-Limited Special edition
2 door 2 door RA
F GC8F48D 280 WRX 4 door
F GC8F47D 280 WRX RA 4 door
F GC8F4ED 300 WRX STi4 4 door
F GC8F4DD 300 WRX RA STi5 4 door
F GC8F4DD 300 WRX RA STi5 4 Special edition
door V-Limited
F GF8F58D 280 WRX 5 door
F GF8F5ED 300 WRX STi5 5 door
F GF8F58P 240 WRX 5 door AT
G Sep.99-Aug.00 GC8G2DD 300 WRX R STi5 2 door
MY2000
G GC8G2DD 300 WRX R STi5 Special edition
V-Limited 2 door
G GC8G27D 300 WRX RA V-Limited Special edition
2 door 2 door RA
G GC8G48D 280 WRX 4 door
G GC8G47D 280 WRX RA 4 door
G GC8G4ED 300 WRX STi4 4 door
G GC8G4DD 300 WRX RA STi5 4 door
G GC8G4DD 300 WRX RA STi5 4 Special edition
door V-Limited
G GF8G58D 240 WRX 5 door
G GF8G5ED 300 WRX STi5 5 door
G GF8G58P 240 WRX 5 door AT
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 25
8 Performance (w)
8.1 Standard Cars
One of the main reasons for anyone buying the Impreza is the absolutely stunning
levels of performance it offers for the money. For the 4 door saloon, Subaru claim
6.4 seconds for the 0–62 mph (100 km/h) sprint, and a maximum speed of 143.5
mph (97/98 models). The figures for the five door hatchback are 6.5 seconds and
142 mph respectively. All of this from a standard car costing around £21,000 on
the road!
As many performance tests have proved over the years, these figures (particularly
acceleration) are somewhat conservative.
Both Performance Car and Autocar magazines tested the 4 door saloon (pre ‘97
model) with an identical 5.9 seconds for the dash to 60 mph. These tests were
carried out with a driver, passenger and a full tank of fuel over a number of runs
to eliminate the effects of wind assistance/resistance.
On 4th Feb. 98, Autocar tested a 1998 specification five door hatchback. A top
speed of 143 mph was recorded, with the 0–60 mph time being dispensed with in
only 5.5 seconds, and 0–100 mph in 15.8. The standing 1/4 mile was completed in
14.2 seconds at 97 mph. The 30–70 mph increment was achieved in 5.6 seconds
(a whole 1 second faster than a manual Porsche Boxster!)
However, the most remarkable tests were carried out on a standard 4 door saloons
during November 1997. Firstly Top Gear magazine covered the 0–60 mph sprint
in only 5.2 seconds! Then Performance Car (sadly no longer with us), as part of
their 0–60 challenge timed the Impreza at a mind blowing 5.03 seconds for the
0–60 sprint, with the 1/4 mile being covered in 13.72 seconds at 100.6 mph. It
should be noted though, that the Performance Car tests were carried out at Santa
Pod drag strip (quality grippy tarmac), with only the driver, a near empty fuel tank
and in one direction only.
Other magazine tests confirm that the standard Impreza turbo is easily capable of
sub 6 second sprints to 60 mph, with a top speed in excess of 140 mph. There have
been several stories of owners nearly redlining their cars in 5th gear. Although
they have had the needle well off the clock, the indicated rpm would point to
actual speeds of over 160mph being possible, although with wind resistance by
far the dominant force at these speeds, a 10mph tailwind will increase the top
speed by almost 10mph.
As well as having stunning acceleration, the Impreza also has legendary handling.
In standard road trim, there is a good compromise between ride quality and stabil-
ity on typical road surfaces. The ride quality on 96 and 97 models is on the firm
side, with the car skipping nervously on rough or potholed surfaces at low speed,
but it is by no means harsh and uncomfortable, improving when pushed on. The
suspension on 98 cars seems slightly less firm with more tendency to understeer,
but still provides levels of grip that defy belief. Most recently, the 99 car has
acquired some of the stiffness of the STi models. The secret of the Impreza’s han-
dling seems to lie in the superb chassis. Out on the open road, the combination of
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 26
a firm ride, good body control and the remarkable four wheel drive system ensure
that there are only a handful of cars who can keep pace with a well driven Impreza.
When the roads become wet, narrower and unfamiliar, there are realistically only
two or three cars in standard form which could keep up with (or go faster than)
an Impreza turbo, all of which are significantly more expensive .
Apart from a handful of group tests performed when the car was first imported
into the UK (Top gear rated a Mazda 323 higher, with Performance Car giving
it second place to a Mondeo), the Impreza seems to win both first place and the
hearts of all those who test it. Although it hasn’t won some of the more recent
group tests, it has fared as well as can be expected against some tough opposition,
in the form of the Mitsubishi EVO 6, Porsche 911 GT3, Ferarri 360. There is
little else to touch the car in terms of performance, practicality, build quality and
reliability, and certainly nothing else comes close at the price (apart from perhaps
the Lotus Elise, which can hardly be classified as practical)
For a while, the car was known as “the best kept secret on the road”, although nu-
merous glowing magazine reviews and the off-road antics of a certain Mr McRae
have somewhat eroded the cars anonymity over the past few years. Not all bad
though, as people now say “Wow!” when you reply to the question “. . . and what
do you drive?”, instead of the previous answer: “What’s that then?”
8.2 Modified Cars
In standard form, the Impreza’s performance is nothing short of mind-blowing,
especially for those of us brought up on powerful front wheel drive cars. In modi-
fied form though, the cars can be simply devastating. Some owners have reported
indicated top speeds of 160mph, with only the minor changes of a performance
air filter, exhaust, and running the car on Super Unleaded fuel (see section on fuel
(p 32) for further details).
Most performance tests carried out by magazines are carried out on a 2 mile
straight, or banked circular track, where the maximum speed is affected by tyre
scrub and side winds, or the need to stop the car before the end of the straight.
Given a long enough stretch of road (and a lot of courage by the driver), maximum
speeds can be about 5mph faster than those recorded during magazine tests. The
number of places in the world where this can be done both safely and legally are
very few. You might also wonder about the relevance of a top speed which takes
several miles to achieve!
In a test by Performance Car magazine in the UK (December 1997), a modified
Prodrive (p 61) car was put through it’s paces. Acceleration, with two people, full
tank of fuel and a wet road surface gave a 0–60mph time of only 5.6 seconds, sev-
eral tenths faster than the standard car. However, an unprinted test by Performance
Car on the 1998 Prodrive demonstrator returned 4.94 and 5.08 seconds under the
same conditions! The focus of the Prodrive engine mods is on real-world driving,
and their changes give stunning mid-range performance. Combined with the 17”
wheels and tyre set and improved suspension, there are few other cars (mostly
expensive exotica) which can compete in terms of absolute A to B ability.
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 27
8.3 WRX/STi Cars
With 276+ bhp, and 260 lb/ft of torque, mated to a shorter close ratio gearbox, the
later Japanese specification Impreza’s have the ability to out accelerate virtually
all other cars on the road. Official figures are 0–62mph (100km/h) in about 4.9
seconds, although a Tye R was timed at 4.3 seconds (0–60) by Performance Car in
the UK. In standard form, these cars are limited to 112mph by Japanese law, but
bypassing the speed limiter enables them to reach top speeds of about 150mph+
You certainly wouldn’t want to run the cars at this speed for any period of time,
as the fuel consumption would be well down into single figures!!!
The regular WRX/STi models have different (slightly shorter) gearing than the
Turbo 2000 models, but with an extra 500 or 1,000 rpm to play with, the maxi-
mum speeds in gears are similar. The top speed (limiter bypassed) of these models
is around 150mph at nearly 7,000 rpm.
The following table of gear ratios relates only to the WRX STi IV saloon. The
ratios for the Type R and RA STi models are significantly shorter, at about 19mph
per 1000rpm in 5th.
Gear Ratio Mph per 1000 rpm
1st 3.17 5.1
2nd 1.89 8.6
3rd 1.30 12.4
4th 0.97 16.6
5th 0.74 21.8
Final Drive Ratio 4.44:1
8.4 Speedo Accuracy
A vehicle speedometer can never be perfectly accurate: variations in temperature,
tread depth, tyre growth and a hundred other factors combine to give an indication
of your speed, not a true reading. In the UK, the law requires that the indication
be −0/+10%, i.e. it can over-read by up to 10% but must not under-read. In other
words, if the big hand’s pointing at 70, you are somewhere between 63mph and
70mph.
Needless to say, it helps to know how inaccurate your speedo is. One way of
checking the speedo is to use a GPS receiver. Although these have their own
inaccuracies and should be used with care, at higher (car) speeds the errors are
typically about 1mph. Some tests by IWOC members (different GPSs, different
days, different places, different cars) suggest the following:
Car GPS
test 1 test 2 test 3
30 28 26 28
40 38 37 38
50 48 47 47
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 28
60 57 57 56
70 67 66 67
80 77 76 77
90 87 85 87
100 98 - 96
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 29
9 Servicing (w)
In the UK, an initial “free” service is performed after the run-in period of 1,000
miles. As with most manufacturers, the labour is free, but parts used (oil & filter)
being charged to the customer. (one revision of the service booklet said the service
was completely free - this was quickly corrected).
Servicing intervals are then every 6 months (from initial purchase date) or 7,500
miles, whichever comes first. The first six monthly service is classified as a minor
service, and as such consists mostly of checks and minor adjustments, with a
change of oil and filters. Costs are approximately £90 for a six month service,
with the annual inspection costing about £130. Some of the services after two
to three years are more expensive, as timing belts and spark plugs (tricky access,
apparently) require replacement.
A: Adjust; R: Replace or change; I: Inspect, correct or replace if necessary; (I)
Recommend service for safe vehicle operation
Details taken from Service and Warranties Booklet
Item Interval
1K mile 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 See Note
monthmonthmonthmonthmonthmonthmonth month
(7.5K (15K (22K (30K (37.5 (45K (52.5K (60K
mile) mile) mile) mile) mile) mile) mile) mile)
Drive I I I I I I I I I
belts
(except
camshaft)
Camshaft belts R
Engine oil R R R R R R R R R 1
Engine oil filter R R R R R R R R R 1
Engine coolant R R
Cooling I I I I I
system,
hoses &
connec-
tions
Fuel filter R R
Fuel I I I I 2
system,
line &
connec-
tions
Air filter I R I R 1
Spark plugs R R R R
4-Gas Analysis Check I I I I
03 September 2007, at 10:03 PM from Scoobypedia.co.ukSubaru Impreza Driver’s Club (SIDC) FAQ 30
Item Interval
1K mile 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 See Note
monthmonthmonthmonthmonthmonthmonth month
(7.5K (15K (22K (30K (37.5 (45K (52.5K (60K
mile) mile) mile) mile) mile) mile) mile) mile)
Trans- I R I R 1
mission
& diff.
oil
Brake fluid I I I I R I I I R 3
Brake I I I I I I I I
pads &
discs
Axle I I I I 2
shafts
joints &
boots
Brake lines I I I I I I I I
Park & I I I I I I I I 2
service
brake
opera-
tion
Clutch system A I I I I
Full Geometry check Perform as required at additional cost
Steering I I I I 2
& sus-
pension
system
Opera- I I I I I I I I I
tion of
lights,
wipers,
washers
Tyre I I I I I I I I I
condi-
tion and
inflation
pres-
sures
Wheel (I)
bearing
lubri-
cant
Notes:
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