The 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi remains one of the most coveted performance cars ever to emerge from Japan. Built to celebrate a third consecutive WRC title, this machine is much more than a standard Impreza. Only 400 units were produced for the Japanese market, and this specific example carries the prestigious serial number 388. With its signature widebody stance and Sonic Blue Mica finish, it serves as a rolling tribute to rally history.
Distinctive Engineering of the 22B Widebody
Subaru designed the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi with a bespoke body that mimics the WRC race cars. The aluminum hood features an enlarged scoop and vents to improve cooling for the high-strung engine. Designers added widened fenders and rocker extensions to accommodate a more aggressive track width. An adjustable rear wing allows for aerodynamic tuning, while the classic gold BBS wheels provide the perfect visual contrast.
Precision Handling and Prodrive Suspension
This 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi utilizes a suspension system tuned by the experts at Prodrive for maximum grip. Bilstein dampers work alongside a carbon fiber strut tower bar to keep the chassis composed through corners. The quick-ratio steering gear ensures that every driver input results in immediate and precise direction changes. Red-painted brake calipers sit behind the 17-inch wheels, offering consistent stopping power during spirited driving sessions.
Driver Centric Cockpit and Rare Interior Features
The right-hand-drive cabin reflects the competitive nature of the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi without sacrificing comfort. Recaro bucket seats provide excellent lateral support and feature black and blue cloth with red stitching. A leather-wrapped Nardi steering wheel frames white-dial gauges, including a tachometer with a 9,000-rpm redline. Owners can adjust the center differential via a dedicated dial located conveniently on the center console stack.
Global Provenance and Media Recognition
Having spent time in Japan and the UK, this 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi has a documented history of care. It recently gained fame as a cover car for evo magazine in late 2024, highlighting its exceptional condition. Service records show recent timing belt and spark plug replacements to ensure the mechanical bits remain fresh. A protective wax-oil coating on the underside helps preserve the metal from the elements during international transport.
Mechanical Specs and Turbocharged Performance
The heart of the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi is a 2.2-liter EJ22G turbocharged flat-four engine. It was factory rated at 280 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, though many enthusiasts suspect higher actual figures. A close-ratio five-speed manual transaxle sends power to all four wheels through an advanced all-wheel-drive system. The engine features a specialized water spray system for the intercooler to maintain peak performance during heavy boost.
Summary of the 22B STi Heritage
Owning a 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi is a rare opportunity to possess a genuine piece of motorsport pedigree. This serialized example combines low mileage with a well-documented life across three different continents. Its blend of raw mechanical feedback and iconic styling ensures it remains a benchmark for the golden era of JDM. Every detail from the Bilstein dampers to the EJ22G engine reflects Subaru’s peak engineering achievements.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
