Subaru Impreza STI 22B, Previously Owned by Colin McRae, Achieves a Remarkable $600,000 in Sale
During the 1990s, Subaru solidified its dominance in the realm of rallying, largely attributed to the exceptional skills of renowned driver Colin McRae.
This period of triumph marked the introduction of the inaugural Impreza WRX, acronymizing “World Rally Experimental,” in 1992. Subsequently, the Impreza WRX STI was unveiled in 1994, a response to an outstanding rally season.
The year 1998 bore witness to the arrival of the most iconic model within this lineage—the Impreza 22B STI. This distinguished creation commemorated the Subaru World Rally Team’s triumphant acquisition of three consecutive World Rally Championship titles spanning from 1995 to 1997. Notably, a pristine specimen of this model, previously owned by McRae, recently changed hands for a substantial sum of 480,500 British pounds, equating to approximately $604,000.
This vehicle, boasting an odometer reading of just below 12,000 kilometers (around 7,456 miles), found its new owner at the recent Iconic Auctioneers event held at the esteemed Silverstone Circuit in the United Kingdom. Evidently, this marked the first instance of the car being made available for public purchase.
The 1998 Subaru Impreza STI 22B prototype, an esteemed possession of Colin McRae in the past – Image credit: Iconic Auctioneers
A mere 424 instances of the 22B were ever produced (400 allocated for Japan and a scant 24 for the global market), rendering this vehicle an exceedingly rare commodity. McRae’s version, however, is exceptional even within this limited production pool. Beyond its affiliation with the legendary rally figure, McRae’s car garners distinction as one of only three original prototypes. Evident in its identification plaque reading “000/400,” this distinction stems from the other two prototypes being initially allocated to Prodrive’s David Lapworth and Nicky Grist, McRae’s steadfast co-driver.
Typical of all 22Bs, this vehicle harnesses the power of a turbocharged 2.2-liter flat-4 engine. The engine’s official rating hovers at 276 horsepower, dictated by an agreement among Japan’s automakers at that juncture to cap horsepower levels. However, prevailing wisdom suggests that the actual output likely surpasses the 300 horsepower threshold.
The 22B model includes an array of enhancements, among them a seam-welded bodyshell, ostensibly mirroring the WRC cars in shape. Special gearing, a twin-plate racing clutch, enhanced brakes, and bespoke suspension equipped with Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs further augment its performance. Notably, the car rests upon 17-inch BBS wheels, adorned with Subaru’s signature gold finish reminiscent of their rally vehicles.
Prodrive, the collaborator with Subaru in crafting its WRC cars, recently commemorated the 22B’s legacy by introducing a modern iteration: the P25. With production slated for a mere 25 units, each one carries a substantial price tag, commencing at 460,000 British pounds. Strikingly, this cost closely mirrors the amount that the discerning bidder invested in the acquisition of McRae’s original masterpiece.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rally Car Heritage
What is the significance of the Subaru Impreza 22B STI?
The Subaru Impreza 22B STI is an iconic rally car model that commemorates the Subaru World Rally Team’s three consecutive World Rally Championship titles from 1995 to 1997. It holds historical importance in the realm of rally racing.
Who owned the Impreza 22B STI that was sold recently?
The Impreza 22B STI that was recently sold was previously owned by the legendary rally driver Colin McRae. McRae’s association with the car adds to its rarity and historical value.
What is the price that the McRae-owned Impreza 22B STI was sold for?
The McRae-owned Impreza 22B STI was sold for an impressive sum of 480,500 British pounds, which is approximately equivalent to $604,000.
How many units of the Impreza 22B STI were produced?
Only a total of 424 units of the Impreza 22B STI were ever produced. Among them, 400 were allocated for the Japanese market, while a mere 24 were designated for the rest of the world.
Is the Impreza 22B STI a rare car?
Yes, the Impreza 22B STI is indeed a rare and sought-after car due to its limited production numbers and its connection to rally racing history. Its scarcity adds to its allure among collectors and enthusiasts.
What distinguishes Colin McRae’s Impreza 22B STI from others?
Colin McRae’s Impreza 22B STI stands out not only because of its ownership by the rally legend but also because it is one of the three original prototypes. Its unique build plaque reading “000/400” signifies its distinction as a prototype.
What is the engine specification of the Impreza 22B STI?
The Impreza 22B STI is powered by a turbocharged 2.2-liter flat-4 engine. Although its official horsepower rating is 276 hp, its actual output is believed to exceed 300 hp.
Are there any modern versions of the Impreza 22B STI?
Yes, Prodrive, in collaboration with Subaru, has introduced a modern version called the P25. Only 25 units of the P25 are set to be built, each with a starting price of 460,000 British pounds.
More about Rally Car Heritage
- Colin McRae’s Subaru Impreza 22B STI Sells for $600,000
- Subaru Impreza 22B STI: A Rally Legend
- Iconic Auctioneers: McRae’s Impreza 22B STI Sale
- Prodrive’s Modern Tribute to the Impreza 22B
- Subaru’s Legacy in World Rally Championship
- Specifications and Features of Impreza 22B STI
- Colin McRae: Rally Racing Legend