The 2001 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS has long been the holy grail for North American rally enthusiasts. While the factory delivered these cars with a naturally aspirated engine, many owners have turned to JDM swaps to unlock their true potential. This specific Silverthorn Metallic sedan underwent a professional transformation in 2013. It now features a turbocharged EJ207 flat-four, bringing it closer to the performance of its Japanese counterparts. The owner integrated several high-end modifications to handle the increased power. This build represents a dedicated effort to merge classic GC8-era styling with the modern reliability of a Version VIII powertrain. It offers a mechanical purity that modern performance cars often struggle to replicate.
Exterior Styling and JDM Refinements
The Silverthorn Metallic finish remains a signature look for early millennium Subarus. A vented hood and a prominent rear wing define the aggressive silhouette of this 2.5RS. Up front, JDM fog lights provide a more authentic rally appearance compared to the stock US-spec units. An iWire hood scoop splitter was added to direct airflow more efficiently toward the top-mount intercooler. While the car shows some rock chips and scuffs from road use, it retains its iconic sport sedan aesthetic. The inclusion of 17-inch STi wheels further elevates the presence of the car. These wheels provide a wider footprint for better grip during spirited driving maneuvers.
Chassis Upgrades and Suspension Tuning
Handling is a primary focus for any 2001 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS build. This example utilizes Flatout coilovers to lower the center of gravity and reduce body roll. A front strut brace and aluminum front control arms were installed to increase front-end rigidity. Underneath the rear, an STi control arm helps manage geometry during hard cornering. These modifications work together to provide a much sharper steering response than the original factory setup. Braking is handled by an anti-lock disc system, ensuring the car stops as well as it accelerates. The combination of lightweight chassis parts and modern suspension makes this sedan highly capable on twisty roads.
Cabin Modifications and STi Touches
The interior reflects the performance focus with Prodrive-branded front seats for better lateral support. White-dial metric instrumentation was retrofitted, featuring a central STi-branded tachometer. This setup provides a 180-km/h speedometer and essential readouts for the turbocharged engine. In the center stack, Lamco auxiliary gauges provide real-time data on oil and boost levels. For entertainment, a Pioneer stereo system was integrated into the dash. While the sunroof motor is currently weak, the overall cabin remains functional and driver-oriented. A classic three-spoke steering wheel connects the driver to the road, although it currently requires a simple alignment check.
EJ207 Turbocharged Performance and Drivetrain
The heart of this 2001 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS is a 2.0-liter EJ207 Version VIII flat-four. This JDM motor features a twin-scroll turbocharger and a Tomioka Racing downpipe for faster spool times. Power is sent through the original five-speed manual transaxle, which is bolstered by an ACT Performance street clutch. To improve rev response, a lightweight flywheel and a Perrin lightweight crankshaft pulley were installed. A Perrin catback exhaust provides the unmistakable boxer rumble while improving overall engine breathing. JDM equal-length headers and an upgraded fuel pump complete the mechanical package. This setup delivers immediate torque and high-rpm power across the all-wheel-drive system.
Technical Summary of the Build
This 2001 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS serves as a comprehensive example of a well-executed JDM swap. The integration of the iWire wiring harness merge ensures that the complex EJ207 electronics function seamlessly with the chassis. With its upgraded fuel system and equal-length headers, the engine operates with high efficiency. The mechanical grip provided by the STi components and Flatout coilovers allows the driver to exploit every bit of turbo boost. It remains a focused, enthusiast-driven machine that respects the heritage of the Impreza line. This sedan is a rare opportunity to experience the true performance potential of the first-generation chassis.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
