1999 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type-R V5                       ...

Estimate

£22,000 - £26,000

1999 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type-R V5                           
Registration Number: T473 ORP
Chassis Number: GC8-084470
Recorded Mileage: c.88,500 Miles

- JDM market-only homologation classic 
- In exceptional order with £18,000+ recent investment

The Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type R V5, often recognized by its chassis code GC8, stands as a JDM Rally Legend, and hallmark of Subaru’s heritage. Built exclusively for the Japanese Domestic Market, this coupe exemplifies a purposeful, race-inspired ethos. It was developed with extensive factory modifications designed for spirited driving, featuring a lighter body, stiffer chassis, and performance-enhancing components tailored for both on-road and rally environments.

Powering this exceptional model is a 2.0L turbocharged EJ207 DOHC flat-four engine, rated officially at launch at 280bhp. Coupled with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission equipped with a Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD), the car allows the driver to fine-tune torque distribution between front and rear wheels, optimising traction and handling on every surface.

Designed with performance in mind, the V5 offered a stiffer suspension setup, a body notably lighter and more rigid than its saloon counterparts, and factory features such as a roof vent, intercooler water spray and bigger brakes. The chassis was engineered to reduce weight while improving structural integrity.

This example has received meticulous attention and maintenance that surely position it among the best examples available on the market today. Since acquiring the car in 2014, the owner has spared no expense in ensuring it runs flawlessly. Most recently, a comprehensive refurbishment was carried out by Hurst Cars over a period of five months, fully refreshing the underbody and chassis, along with a new rear differential, fuel tank, and overhauled Tein suspension - set up and tuned with precision. The result is a car that offers a truly engaging and confident drive, with exemplary handling and rock-solid mechanical integrity.

A host of enhancements have been carried out focussed on performance including: Race Dynamics ECUTEK remap, elevating power to approximately 327 horsepower, complemented by an uprated VF35 turbocharger and stainless steel cat-back exhaust. AS Performance lightweight flywheel, a Clubman baffle sump, and an uprated Walbro fuel pump. In 2018, a RCM oil cooler and sandwich plate were added for extra thermal management, while handling has been sharpened with upgraded AS Performance universal joints and gear linkage. The car is fitted with an Autobahn front mount intercooler and a HKS mushroom air filter, maximizing airflow and charge efficiency. The striking gold Revolution Millennium 18x8 alloys sit beneath uprated, modern STI suspension with Tein lowering springs installed in 2024, providing a balance of comfort and handling precision. Power is managed via an Exedy organic clutch, with the drivetrain, featuring DCCD with a front-to-rear differential bias selector and a close-ratio gearbox, offers multiple driving modes for spirited and precise performance. Inside, the speedo has been converted from kilometers to miles. Inside there are ProSport gauges for boost, oil pressure, and engine temperature, while the steering is mounted on a K Sport snap-off boss with an OMP Racing suede steering wheel, and OMP four-point harness for the driver alongside standard 3-point belts.

The odometer now shows 142,438 kilometers (approximately 86,500 miles), verified from new, backed by a substantial history file that chronicles tens of thousands of pounds invested in its care over the years, including over £18,000 spent on recent recommissioning works during 2023-2024. The Impreza is supplied with UK V5, valid MOT, the original Japanese handbook, and a bespoke, all-weather outdoor cover.

Every aspect of its restoration and maintenance has been approached with unwavering attention to detail, making this WRX STI Type R V5 not only a thoroughly enjoyable driver but a rare opportunity to acquire a genuinely well-sorted, enhanced example of a legendary Japanese homologation classic.