Stock #7232
Exterior Overview
In the world of flying cars and electric marvels, sometimes it takes an analog masterpiece like this second-generation WRX STi to bring car enthusiasts back to earth. It’s a performance bargain that ticks nearly every box. It is engaging to drive, with a revised 2.0l engine, a screaming 8,000 RPM redline, and a lightweight chassis that’s easy to modify and maintain. Finished in Midnight Black Pearl, this 2001 GDB bugeye is set off by a set of rare OEM rainguards, optional side strakes, a factory optional grille, and sleek OEM BBS forged alloys. The new paint shows well overall, and save for a few minor blemishes on the wheels and a noted replacement of the hood in Japan, it’s hard to critique this GD’s condition. Best of all, this STi is fresh off a comprehensive service, including a brand new timing belt and water pump, and the 82k miles on the clock are verified, documented, and appealing to just about any Subaru die-hard. With a familiar aesthetic and a powerhouse drivetrain never offered here in the USA, this is one Japanese Classic you have to see to believe!
Interior Overview
This “Version 7” WRX STi has a truly iconic interior. It’s finished in a trademark black/blue suede, is set off by red accent stitching, and offers up a host of power amenities and equipment designed to make daily driving simple. The upholstery is in good shape throughout and the front buckets are well bolstered. In fact, there’s little damage to note as a whole apart from some pilling on the driver’s bolster. The center stack is easy to navigate. Automatic climate control lies adjacent to a simple single DIN Pioneer headunit, which also features Bluetooth functionality. Sure, if you power the windows down you’ll receive the best auditory experience, but cold A/C and hot heat are on standby for when you need to keep the climate comfortable. The cockpit isn’t just comfy, it’s safe too, with dual SRS airbags up front. The driver can adjust the factory MOMO steering wheel at will and also dial in some additional height adjustment at the seat base. Power locks work well with the assistance of keyless entry, and the electric side mirrors can also fold in and out at the push of a button. The headliner is clean, as are the carpets, and we really don’t have much to scrutinize other than an inoperable flip-out navigation screen atop the dash.
Mechanical Overview
Any proper road-going rally car needs a responsive, low displacement, turbocharged engine, and the EJ207 under the hood of this Subie is all that and more. This semi-forged flat four is fresh off a recent service, and cranks over with haste, care of a new 12v battery. After the aforementioned timing belt service was completed, we flushed in new coolant, and also took care of a pesky valve cover gasket replacement while we were in there. A new alternator keeps everything properly charged, and four new spark plugs got this EJ running tip-top, alongside a new engine air filter and fuel filter. Power comes on strong, and is sent directly to a slick shifting 6 speed manual gearbox. It distributes power evenly amongst all four wheels and is a hoot to drive on nearly any terrain. The factory suspension is responsive and keeps the chassis planted to the pavement, and this sedan starts, steers, and stops as it should. Braking performance is superb, thanks to factory Brembo calipers, and we’ve gone ahead and wrapped the BBS’ in new Dunlop rubber. After a fresh four-wheel alignment, this GDB is turn-key, ready to track straight for tens of thousands of miles to come!
*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.
