Body Color

Light Silver Metallic (406)

Engine

2.0l EJ20K H4

Transmission

5 M/T

1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8

SOLD

Body Color

Light Silver Metallic (406)

Engine

2.0l EJ20K H4

Transmission

5 M/T

Stock #5553

With full Veilside Aero and a potent STi tuned EJ20K, this Subaru is a rare Japanese Classic, turn-key and ready to roll.

Exterior Overview

By 1996, Subaru was riding high on the Impreza’s success both in the WRC and at the dealership. The Japanese market received many different race-inspired variants over the years, but none were as capable as GF8 wagon in STI trim. Combining the utility of an Impreza wagon with a legendary powerplant, the GF8 made for one deadly weapon on Japanese streets and mountain passes alike. This well modified 1996 Version III STI wagon is finished in Light Silver Metallic (406) and offered with only 65k verified and documented miles. Aside from a few light scratches, dings, and scuffs, and a noted core support replacement from Japan, the period-correct Veilside front bumper, Veilside side skirts, and C-West rear spats present well overall. Complementing the aftermarket aero are a set of OEM rainguards, a factory rear spoiler and a set of 17″ Milano Vex TS wheels. Suited for daily driving, weekend trips, or the occasional Cars & Coffee, this Subaru is a rare Japanese Classic, turn-key and ready to roll.

1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8
1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8

Interior Overview

The cabin of the GF8 has also been enhanced to STI spec, with premium materials and STI embossed upholstery. Not to be outshined by the exterior, this interior boasts quite a few modifications including a MOMO steering wheel and an Apex’i boost gauge. The color keyed upholstery is clean, save for some light bolster wear on the driver’s bucket, and the rear bench offers a 60/40 split so you can double your cargo capacity when not in use. The dash is free of any cracks or lifting and houses a more modern BOSS headunit, with Bluetooth functionality. The door cards are also in excellent shape for a car of this age with only very light wear on the driver’s door panel. The carpet is free of any major stains as is the headliner, devoid of any serious wear or sagging. This wagon comes equipped with quite a few power amenities to make daily use enjoyable. Power locks, power-folding mirrors, and power windows all work as advertised, and the A/C and heat function well allowing this Subaru to be comfortably used in any climate. It’s clear to us this STI was well cared for in a prior life and it even retains its factory owner’s manual and a couple maintenance booklets to preserve the history of this classic Impreza.

1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8
1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8

Mechanical Overview

The tried-and-true driveline design has proven itself over the years, in part due to just how well it works. The potent, STI tuned EJ20K powers this five-seater, and the 2.0L is fresh off an oil and filter service. A new 12v battery helps this boxer four promptly crank to life and should last for years to come! The sound is stellar, and the signature Subaru rumble is accentuated thanks to an ARC Airbox, upgraded unequal-length header, and turbo back exhaust. Our trained technicians installed new valve cover gaskets, a new oil separator plate, and rear main seal to help keep this EJ20 happy and topped up on oil. Power is fed through a close ratio five-speed manual gearbox and sent to all four wheels. 276hp is nothing to scoff at, and the power delivery is certainly capable of putting a smile on any driver’s face. Shifts through the short ratio 5 speed manual are smooth and direct, thanks to brand-new shifter bushings, although we wanted to note a slight third gear grind typical of these GC and GF chassis Imprezas. Braking is just as good as acceleration, and new front and rear brake pads allow this wagon to feel confident, even during the most intense of backroad drives. Cornering is flat, thanks to the factory STI chassis braces and aftermarket adjustable coilovers. The power-assisted steering is light and keeps the driver’s inputs precise, in combination with the new left inner tie rod and alignment. Enhancing the grip, brand new tires have been mounted on all four corners and should last tens of thousands of miles to come.

1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8
1996 Subaru WRX STi GF8

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.