1998 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX STI TYPE R

KEY FACTS

• A very smart and largely original example of the iconic Japanese performance car, with relatively low mileage.
• Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre turbocharged flat-four engine, which has been lightly fettled to produce 320bhp. Power is sent to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
• The turbocharger blades have been replaced during the vendor’s ownership, and the car is reported to be in excellent mechanical health.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• As a desirable ‘Type R’ model, this Impreza WRX STI boasts a close-ratio five-speed gearbox, quick steering rack, four-piston front brake calipers, automatic water spray for the intercooler and numerous other factory upgrades.
• Factory-fitted equipment also includes air-conditioning, electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirror glass.
• This example has been lightly tuned; with an ECU re-map boosting the power output to 320bhp.
• The standard stereo has also been replaced and a set of aftermarket alloy wheels have been fitted.
• Included with the car are several receipts for parts and maintenance, but no significant service history.

CONDITION

• There is no known prior bodywork damage.
• The paintwork is in generally excellent condition throughout, with a small chip above the nearside front wheel arch and a small scratch on the spoiler noted, in addition to the usual smattering of stone chips.
• The wheels have a few minor chips around the rims, but are in good order overall.
• Inside, the cabin presents well, with only light wear noted on areas such as the centre console, door cards and seat bolsters. The glovebox top section also displays some minor cracking, due to the harsh Cypriot sun.
• The high-traffic areas such as the Momo steering wheel, handbrake and gear shifter also wear a light ‘patina’, in keeping with the car’s age and mileage.
• The vendor notes that the passenger side mirror adjuster does not work, and the nearside electric window will not operate from the driver’s switch, but works perfectly fine from the switch on the door.
• Due to being located in Cyprus, roadworthy inspections are biennial and the most recent took place in June 2020, with no reported issues. The certificate is valid until June 2022.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The last service was completed in 91,000 km, and before that there is also paperwork for a service at 87,500 km.
• The seller is also aware that a new clutch and flywheel were fitted in March 2020.
• The turbocharger blades have been replaced during the current ownership.
• While there is no other service history on file, according to the vendor, this WRX STI Type R is in very good mechanical health and has a particularly strong engine.

SUMMARY

Almost as iconic as the WRC cars themselves, the first-generation Subaru Impreza WRX STI is a legendary modern classic performance car, and in Type R guise is even more desirable. This example is in very good condition for its age, remaining largely unmodified, and would make an engaging and enjoyable companion along its next owner’s favourite roads.

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