Known for their legacy of racing performance, the Subaru Impreza Spec C is not available in the US. Instead you’ll have to take a jump across the pond in a quest for unbridled Subaru performance. While JDM purists may talk down the Spec C, this Impreza means business.
Of course working your way through the phone book listings of special Imprezas can be confusing. Despite the fact that Spec C Imprezas command big money thanks to their undiluted motorsport pedigree, many may still pine for the Type RA or even the tS.
We take a look at one of the purest Subaru’s ever built. Let’s take a look at the Subaru Impreza Spec C and everything that makes it so remarkable.
Inside the Subaru Impreza Spec C
Born from the roots of homologation rally racing, the Spec C has a name many Subaru fans are well familiar with. The original rally performer was in fact the WRX STI Type RA that can be found in the first-generation or GC8 chassis.
Of course the Type RA doesn’t have much to differentiate itself from the pack. The Subaru Impreza Spec C also sports a roof vent system that’s incredibly unique. Only other differences between the two is the huge amount of weight reduction in the Spec C rally racer.
What makes the Subaru Impreza Spec C special?
Other than being incredibly rare, the Spec C is effectively a pure race car. Being a purpose built Group N rally car isn’t something that most people understand, let alone appreciate. Because all Subaru Impreza Spec C rally cars were indeed purpose built, there’s not much in the way of creature comforts.
Good thing for us, we don’t need the extra frills. Fire up the Subaru Impreza Spec C and you’ll notice the exhaust note that threatens to dull your hearing instantly. The lack of radio, power windows, locks and anything else that could be used for anything other than winning races is the next thing that strikes you.
Underneath the bonnet of the Subaru Impreza Spec C is a semi-closed deck EJ20 STI engine. The open deck design was reinforced to increase cylinder wall strength. The engine in the Subaru Impreza Spec C is then enhanced with forged pistons, ported cylinder heads and increased valvetrain components.
Increased boost from the Subaru Impreza Spec C turbocharger brings power output over 300 wheel horsepower. But, that’s not all the Spec C has in store for you. There are enhanced drivetrain parts such as a plated rear differential, higher caster front suspension arms, and a quick steering rack. The engine is mated to a close ratio gearbox, and a stiffer clutch puts it to all four wheels.
Subaru Impreza Spec C Specifications
- Performance: 300bhp – 283lb ft of torque
- Engine: 2.0-litre semi-closed deck EJ20 boxer engine
- IHI VF34 ball-bearing turbocharger
- factory forged pistons
- big port heads
- revised STI camshafts
- AVCS (Active Valve Control System)
- 50-litre half saddle fuel tank with anti-surge fuel pump assembly
- 12-litre intercooler spray bottle
- Transmission: Six-speed close ratio gearbox
- DCCD (Driver’s Control Centre Differential)
- lightened driveshaft
- gearbox oil cooler
Subaru Impreza Spec C Exterior Specifications
- Chassis: 16” Subaru steel wheels
- 205/55/16 Yokohama Advan Neova tires
- Sumitomo four-pot front brake calipers
- ABS delete
- highcaster front alloy suspension arms
- revised front subframe with 13.1 steering rack
- strengthened front strut towers
What do you think about the Subaru Impreza Spec C? Leave us a comment below and let us know!
