2001 Subaru Impeza P1

Background:

Built at Subaru's Fuji Heavy Industries plant in Japan and honed by rally royalty, Prodrive, the Impreza P1 was always destined to become the hugely desirable modern classic that we rightfully see it as today. Built in a limited run of just 1,000 cars, every one featured the iconic Blue Mica paintwork, Anthracite 17" OZ racing wheels and a plethora of upgrades and unique features. It's easy to see why the P1 has gained such a cult following.

Based on the two-door bodyshell, with aerodynamics enhanced by Peter Stevens of McLaren F1 fame, beefier running gear and a fabulous suspension setup by Prodrive, the P1 has more in common with the legendary Impreza 22B than its larger four-door Impreza WRX contemporaries. Developed with British B-roads in mind, by the very same company which helped the likes of Colin McRae, Petter Solburg and Richard Burns win World Rally Championships, the 'Prodrive One' was intended to counter the wave of grey-import STI Type Rs arriving from Japan.

Upgrades to the P1 were extensive, but not intrusive. The list includes a more powerful 280bhp engine (up 69bhp from a standard Impreza Turbo), mated to a 5-speed manual transmission with longer gearing and ABS brakes meaning the difference between a standard Impreza and a P1 is minimal. In addition to the 17" titanium-finish alloy wheels and rally-proven suspension, further upgrades include a big-bore exhaust and a quick-shift gear linkage.

The Car:

This particular UK-registered P1 (#0961/1000) has clearly led a cherished and much cared-for life, presenting superbly as you would expect from one of the most sought after Subaru derivatives. It benefits from a full engine refresh with more recent works noted, including a new Kevlar cambelt, new water pump, rear diff seals, and fresh fluids throughout including the diffs and gearbox, utilising industry-leading Millers Oils products. The braking system has also been flushed and refilled with RBF 600 high-performance fluid with a full four-wheel alignment completed to ensure that everything is pointing in the right direction.

To enhance the already impressive specification of the P1, several subtle modifications have been carried out including an uprated turbo, a Roger Clark Motorsport lightened flywheel and pulley set, a front-mounted intercooler and oil cooler, uprated injectors and an uprated 3-point boost solenoid valve. Roger Clark Ltd also supplied and fitted the first set of DEFi gauges imported into the UK and naturally the engine electronics have been remapped to provide the required synergy between all components.

The car is accompanied by an extensive service history with stamped service book, numerous invoices and general paperwork and the original rear light clusters remain with the car and will be handed over to the new custodian on successful purchase.

Summary:

Fast emerging as a modern classic the P1 has become a sought-after car. This example has some lovely upgrades all backed-up by an extensive history file.

Seller: Private

Location: Buckingham

Photography: Professional