The 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI arrived as a watershed moment for North American enthusiasts, finally bringing the full-fat rally homologation experience to domestic shores. This stunning example, finished in the quintessential WR Blue Pearl, represents a rare tier of preservation with only 15,620 miles on the odometer. As a three-owner car from new with a clean Carfax, it balances extreme low mileage with tasteful, high-quality performance modifications. It remains the definitive “blob-eye” era hero, currently offered for sale in 2026 as a premier candidate for a dedicated Subaru collection or a discerning driver seeking a near-new mechanical experience.
WR Blue Pearl Aesthetic and JDM Wheel Enhancements
The exterior of this 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is finished in WR Blue Pearl, the signature color that defined the brand’s World Rally Championship dominance. This sedan maintains its iconic high-mount rear spoiler and functional hood scoop, which feeds the top-mount intercooler. Modern lighting is provided by HID Xenon headlights, while approach lamps offer an added touch of convenience. The car’s stance has been sharpened by BC Coilovers and an adjustable link rear suspension, riding on authentic JDM Enkei wheels that replace the standard BBS units. Grimm hood struts have also been added to improve ease of maintenance in the engine bay.
Recaro Seating and Driver-Centric Cockpit Refinement
Inside the cabin, the environment has been elevated through the addition of JDM STI Recaro seats, providing superior lateral support compared to the stock U.S.-spec interior. The upholstery features a striking Blue Ecsaine and Black combination, mirrored by a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Despite its competition-bred roots, the car remains comfortable for road use with front air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows. A short-throw shifter has been installed to enhance the tactile feel of the 6-speed manual gearbox. This interior remains in exceptionally fresh condition, commensurate with a vehicle that has traveled fewer than 16,000 miles since new.
Turbocharged Boxer Heart and Titanium Exhaust Note
Performance is driven by the 2.0L turbocharged H4 engine, a high-revving DOHC unit that serves as the mechanical soul of the Impreza platform. This example retains its stock turbocharger but benefits from a COBB SFI intake, a GFB blow-off valve, and a Tomei Expreme Titanium catback exhaust paired with the stock exhaust manifold. Power is distributed through a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system featuring three limited-slip differentials located at the front, center, and rear. While factory output for global 2L units varied, the combination of the 6-speed manual and mechanical LSDs ensures a visceral, analog driving experience that modern electronic systems struggle to replicate.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L Turbocharged H4 (DOHC 16V) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD with Front/Center/Rear LSD |
| Suspension | BC Coilovers / Adjustable Rear Links |
| Exhaust | Tomei Expreme Titanium Catback |
| Mileage | 15,620 Miles |
Market Scarcity and the 2.0L STI Value Proposition
In the 2026 collector market, the 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI has moved firmly into blue-chip territory, with low-mileage examples becoming increasingly difficult to source. While the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII remains its primary period rival, the STI often commands a premium for its robust 6-speed gearbox and iconic boxer soundtrack. This specific car’s unique JDM seat and wheel upgrades offer a “best of both worlds” scenario, providing parts that enthusiasts typically have to source overseas. At a price point of $59,900, it represents a significant investment in a modern classic that continues to appreciate as the era of pure mechanical AWD systems fades.
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A Polished Legend of the World Rally Era
This 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is a masterclass in how to maintain a performance icon, preserving the core identity of the car while adding meaningful upgrades. It offers the next caretaker a turn-key experience, supported by a clean history and exceptionally low wear. From the titanium exhaust note to the precision of the short-throw shifter, every modification has been chosen to enhance the rally-bred heritage of the GD-chassis. For the enthusiast who missed out on buying one of these off the showroom floor in 2004, this WR Blue Pearl survivor is likely as close as one can get to that original experience today.
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Source: motorcarclassics.com
