Former Rally Car Driven by Ken Block, the Automotive Icon, Now Available for Purchase
Renowned automotive personality Ken Block, who gained fame in 2008 when his Gymkhana video featuring a 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI went viral, is synonymous with high-performance rally cars. A unique opportunity has arisen for Block’s admirers to acquire a Subaru rally car once piloted by the late racer and entrepreneur. While it may not be the exact WRX STI from the viral video, this particular Subaru saw plenty of action under Block’s skillful control.
Presently, this remarkable rally car is up for auction in a live online event hosted by Bring a Trailer. The vehicle in question is a 2004 Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS that underwent a transformation into a rally machine in 2006, courtesy of Vermont SportsCar, based in Milton, Vermont. Notably, this is the same workshop responsible for crafting some of the more recent Gymkhana cars. As of the latest update, bidding for the car has reached $46,000, with a full nine days remaining before the auction’s conclusion.
According to its listing, this Subaru rally car was campaigned by Block and his co-driver, Alex Gelsomino, in various X Games rally events. Although it changed hands in 2009 to rally driver Mark Fox, the car retains Block’s iconic racing number, 43.
Under the hood, this rally machine packs a punch with a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-4 engine, transmitting power to all four wheels through a 5-speed sequential transmission. It boasts a driver-controlled center differential, Cusco front and rear limited-slip differentials, and Öhlins dampers for optimal performance. Notably, the car features 15-inch Work wheels, which, unlike Subaru’s signature gold hue for rally cars, are finished in striking orange.
Prospective buyers should be informed that a Carfax report reveals that the car suffered water damage and was declared a total loss in 2005. Subsequently, Salvage and Non-Actual Mileage titles were issued in 2005 by the state of New Hampshire and in 2006 by Vermont. Presently, the car carries a Reconstructed title from Oregon. The listing also indicates that the vehicle has experienced damage and undergone repairs on multiple occasions throughout its rallying career.
This auction announcement arrives on the heels of the release of Ken Block’s final Gymkhana video, titled “Electrikhana 2: The Mexico City Sessions,” which was filmed in November of 2022, just two months prior to Block’s tragic passing in a snowmobile accident.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ken Block Subaru Rally Car Auction
What is the history behind this Subaru rally car?
This Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS was converted into a rally car in 2006 by Vermont SportsCar, the same workshop that built some of Ken Block’s iconic Gymkhana cars. It was campaigned by Ken Block and co-driver Alex Gelsomino in X Games rally events.
What is the current status of the car?
As of the latest update, the car is available for bidding in a live online auction hosted by Bring a Trailer. Bidding has reached $46,000, with nine days remaining in the auction.
Does the car come with any special features for rally performance?
Yes, the rally car boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-4 engine, a 5-speed sequential transmission, a driver-controlled center differential, Cusco front and rear limited-slip differentials, and Öhlins dampers for exceptional rally performance.
Are there any important considerations for potential buyers?
Buyers should be aware that the car has a history of water damage and was declared a total loss in 2005. It has undergone repairs and carries a Reconstructed title from Oregon. Additionally, the car has seen damage and repairs during its rallying career.
How does this auction tie into Ken Block’s recent work?
This auction announcement coincides with the release of Ken Block’s final Gymkhana video, titled “Electrikhana 2: The Mexico City Sessions,” which was filmed in November of 2022, shortly before Block’s untimely passing in a snowmobile accident.
More about Ken Block Subaru Rally Car Auction
- Bring a Trailer Auction
- Ken Block Gymkhana Videos
- Vermont SportsCar
- Carfax Report
- Ken Block’s “Electrikhana 2: The Mexico City Sessions”
4 comments
Gymkhana vid link pls, ken block legend
ken block subaru rally car, so cool, 46k bid, wow!
oregon title, repair history, caution for buyers
whoa, rally car history, epic engine, rebuilt tho