1999 Subaru Impreza Turbo 2000 AWD (GC8)

Launched in Japan with the WRX badge, the turbocharged Impreza boasted a power output of some 240bhp with official UK sales beginning in late 1994, however, to conform to UK regulations, the engine was retuned to 208bhp and the car was badged as the Impreza 2000 Turbo AWD. This was a car that changed the motoring public's perception of affordable performance offering Escort Cosworth-beating performance for just under £18,000 - £8,000 less than the Ford resulting in many enthusiasts migrating from one 'Blue Oval' to another.

The Impreza was available as a four-door saloon or five-door hatchback/station wagon, however, Subaru chose to continue their longstanding use of the the four-cam EJ20 boxer engine with the option of permanent four-wheel drive. According to Subaru, this configuration minimised body-roll due to the lower centre of gravity compared with offset engines in most other vehicles. The boxer design was well balanced and provided good vibration mitigation with the movement of each piston being largely countered by a piston in the opposing cylinder bank, eliminating the need for a counter-weighted rotating crankshaft (harmonic balancer). Torque steer is also minimised with this type of powertrain layout since the front drive shafts are of equal length and weight.

Offered here is a totally original Subaru Impreza 2000 Turbo AWD that was ordered new by our vendor and has covered only 33,846 miles in his possession. At the time, in the nineties it was his inspirational car and obviously Subaru’s rally exploits with Prodrive had an influence in his decision. He ordered the car from his local Subaru dealer, Greenways of Norwich, but this model was much in demand and it arrived some seven months later, however, we understand it was worth the wait. Always garaged from new and used sparingly on high days and fine days, it's probably the most cossetted and original one-owner Impreza available and remains superbly presented in Deep Blue Mica with an unmarked grey interior. It's been serviced regularly, initially by the dealer then entrusted to the respected Blakeney Garage in North Norfolk and, most recently, treated to new discs and pads and a set of tyres all round. It's supplied with all its books/ manuals and MOTs from day one and the current MOT is valid until September 2022.

Very rarely does such a genuine Impreza come to the market and Silverstone Auctions are proud to present this absolutely delightful, one owner, low mileage example and welcome and encourage any inspection.