1999 SUBARU IMPREZA RB5

KEY FACTS

• A rare limited-edition version of the iconic rally-derived performance saloon.
• Under the bonnet is the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine, which sends 237bhp to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
• Only 444 RB5s were produced, of which a mere 120 were WR Sport special editions.
• While the car sustained damage in 2010, this was evidently repaired.
• This example has been with its current owner for the past eight years.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The RB5 variant was released to celebrate Subaru rally driver Richard Burns, using his initials and race number. Each example was finished with Steel Blue paintwork over a black and blue Alcantara-trimmed interior, and featured Speedline alloy wheels, a short-shift gear lever, a solid rear bulkhead for increased chassis rigidity, a larger rear spoiler, PIAA spotlights with RB5-branded covers, RB5 floor mats and a numbered plaque on the centre console.
• The WR Sport edition gained a Prodrive rear spoiler and the Prodrive Performance Pack, comprising an upgraded ECU, enhanced suspension and a performance exhaust system, as well as revised intercooler piping.
• Modifications include a sports fuel pump and a stainless-steel rear silencer. 
• The car is accompanied by its original owner’s manual, its stamped service book and various invoices for its past maintenance, as well as its correct tool kit, spare wheel and Richard Burns sticker kit.

CONDITION

• In 2010, this Impreza RB5 sustained damage and was recorded as a Category C insurance loss. However, the car was subsequently repaired.
• Today, the only visible damage to the bodywork is a dent on the rear passenger-side door.
• The Steel Blue metallic paintwork is described by the vendor as being in good overall condition, though the colour is slightly inconsistent between the front and rear driver’s-side doors. There are also some imperfections to the paintwork visible along the driver’s-side sill, underneath the rear door, plus bubbling on the rear driver’s-side wheel arch, and some stone chips around the front end and mirror casings.
• The Alcantara-trimmed cabin presents well, with some minor signs of use on the driver’s seat and steering wheel, as well as light scratches on the door cards and other interior plastics.
• There are no known mechanical or electrical faults.
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 26 April 2021, which resulted in a first-time pass with one advisory for a noisy exhaust.

SERVICE HISTORY

• This Impreza RB5 was most recently serviced in August 2021 at 96,311 miles by MS Commercial Services, who replaced the head gasket, coil pack, alternator, air mass sensor, cambelt, fuel filter, air filter, engine oil and oil filter.
• The two prior services were both six-monthly services, with few miles recorded in between.
• The gearbox was reconditioning at approximately 95,000 miles and rebuilt with new third and fourth gears. A performance clutch plate was also installed at the same time.
• There are various invoices supplied with the vehicle relating to services and maintenance, which are shown in the gallery.

SUMMARY

Made famous by its performance on the rally stage, the Subaru Impreza is a true Japanese icon, and the RB5 model is even more special by honouring one of the team’s most talented drivers. Fresh from a thorough service, this largely original example is set to delight its next owner whenever they get behind the wheel on their favourite B-roads.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for theft, and has no finance owing. It was recorded as a Category C loss in September 2010, but was clearly repaired.