FCLegends #3 – Subaru Impreza Classic 1993–2001
Back in the early ’90s, if you wanted a fast saloon, you needed a fat wallet and a love of German cars. There was a choice of an Audi S2, BMW M5, or Mercedes E-class AMG. But then in 1993, the Japanese arrived…
After years of building 4WDs loved by farmers, the Subaru Impreza was launched to win rallies. With the 4WD running gear and potent 2.0ltr turbocharged boxer lump from the Legacy, it was smaller and weighed less. Combine this with superb weight distribution and Subaru had a devastating rally weapon on their hands.
With aggressive styling including trademark bonnet scoop and large rear wing, the Impreza is instantly recognisable. Even today very little can touch it for the cash. An early imported STi can be had for not a lot and offers 280bhp straight out of the box. With a few modifications, it’ll easily kick out 350bhp.
Add to this the sure-footed 4WD system and the Impreza goes round corners faster than it has any right to. There are lots of models to choose from, including lightweight RA versions with aluminium bonnets, roof vents and other weight saving tricks.
The Classic has been heavily tuned over the years, with many kicking out over 500bhp, but probably the best known is the 800bhp RCM Gobstopper. With so many cheap imports around it’s one of the most affordable performance cars ever.
Over the years the Impreza has gone through several incarnations, including the ‘Blobeye’, ‘Hawkeye’ and some later more questionable versions. But for many, the original will still always be the best.
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