2004 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX STI - 8,858 KM

Originally launched in 1992, the Impreza compact range of cars quickly developed a loyal following, especially among rally car fans and those seeking high-performance for a comparatively small outlay. It was the WRX model, and specifically the further enhanced STi variant, that offered phenomenal ‘bang for buck’. Over the years, many fell foul to being driven too fast, too furiously, often being subjected to all manner of performance modifications, neglect and abuse – but not this one. For over 16 years, this example has been pampered and left unmolested in completely original ‘survivor’ condition, and with exceptionally low mileage.

This one-owner, facelifted second-generation 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STi is powered by a 195kW/343Nm 2.0-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, which drives all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and a limited slip differential. The odometer shows just 8,858km from new.

With its aggressive stance, featuring a larger air intake on the bonnet than the regular WRX and a massive rear wing sitting atop the boot lid, the STi is no wallflower. The signature Rally Blue paint is deep and glossy, providing a stunning contrast to the four unblemished 17-inch gold wheels that make for the perfect combination of colours reminiscent of Subaru’s factory rally cars. The tyres currently fitted are semi-slicks with good tread depth remaining.

Every panel is reported to be pristine and every panel gap original. All glass and lights are clean and intact, and the seals around the windows of all four doors are in great shape. The same goes for the door jambs and hinges, which are usually a tell-tale sign of a car’s history. The engine bay is also immaculate. Looking below, even the underside is remarkably clean with barely a mark to be seen. Only some flaking black paint on the rear muffler reveals that this isn’t a brand-new vehicle. There are no signs of any previous damage, repair or repainting. It can only be described as being in excellent, original condition and presents in superb order throughout.

Moving inside, the interior of this example appears virtually untouched. The sport seats, introduced with this facelifted version, have their bolsters covered in black cloth with synthetic suede covering the squabs in a complementary shade of blue, and are topped off with pink ‘STi’ logos embroidered into the backrests. The carpeting is like new, with STi floor mats included for further protection. All gauges, systems and instruments are in working condition, with no known faults or activated warning lights.

There are many standard creature comforts and safety features too, including climate control, cruise control, ABS, dual front airbags, fog lights (behind STi branded covers), substantial Brembo brakes, power mirrors and windows, a six disc CD stacker, a leather steering wheel and gear shift knob, an alarm system with immobiliser, and Datadot protection for added peace of mind. The large boot – incredibly clean and appearing virtually unused – contains a space-saver spare wheel and tyre. Two keys, central locking remotes, and all of the owner’s handbooks are also included.

Very seldom does an opportunity to purchase such a low-mileage, all original, and one-owner performance car present itself; especially one that is such an iconic part of motorsport history. Having been driven very sparingly and kept in essentially showroom-fresh condition since delivery in October 2004, this would be a truly impressive addition to any discerning collection of performance heroes or modern classics.

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.

This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.