Introduction
If you were a kid in the 90's, your petrolhead obsession and overall love for Subaru will of probably stemmed from watching Colin McRae dominate the World Rally stages!
Now over 2 decades since its launch, the Subaru Impreza 22B has grown into a proper automotive icon... We are extremely priveliged to have one at Torque GT.
Famous for its World Rally heritage this blue and gold legend has received massive interest, with major increases in value, fetching six figure pricetags!
A 555 Sonic Blue 22B isn't just any Impreza. It was created to celebrate Subaru's 40th anniversary and winning three World Rally Championship constructors titles. Not to mention Colin McRae winning the driver's world title.
Its safe to say, this wasn't some rushed vanity project, as you'd expect Subaru did it properly. Starting with a WRX Type R chassis, Subaru applied a bespoke wide body, a unique bonnet, wide front and rear arches, a WRC style front bumper and an adjustable rear wing. Arguably, it's the coolest embodiment of all time...
Behind the wheel it's hard not to get fixated on the 22B's engine. As you flex your right foot and feel the kick in the back and you know Subaru did something internally to make this Impreza like no other! By opening up the flat four EJ20 to 2.2 litres makes the EJ22 mid range feel noticebly punchier.
For stopping power, 4-pot front and 2-pot rear brakes were fitted alongside red STi calipers. Now, a classic blue Impreza wouldn't be complete without the iconic gold wheels, increased in diameter to 17 inches, the BBS RG334 gold wheels were uniquely designed for the 22B.
Place yourself into the STi bucket seats and immediately you feel like you're in something rally derived. Greeted by a gorgeous Nardi wheel and a beautifully simple white speedo and rev counter. All through the cabin are accents of red stitching and you lose count of the vivid pink STi logos. You can tell Subaru Tecnica International were proud of this one...
A plaque in the centre of the cabin shows the model number of each of the 400 cars made for the Japanese domestic market. Other cool features include a diff lock control and an intercooler water spray function for when temps get a little too toasty.
JDM fan or not, you can understand why the 22B could roll into any dream garage... a time capsule of rally inspired heaven!