Hey guys! Let's dive into the legendary Subaru Impreza 22B STI, a rally icon that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. This car isn't just a vehicle; it's a symbol of Subaru's rallying heritage, a testament to engineering prowess, and a dream car for many. If you're a car lover, especially one with a soft spot for rally cars, you're in for a treat. We'll explore what makes the 22B so special, its history, performance, design, and why it remains such a coveted piece of automotive history. So buckle up, and let’s get started!

What Makes the Subaru Impreza 22B STI So Special?

The Subaru Impreza 22B STI is more than just a car; it's a legend born from Subaru's successful World Rally Championship (WRC) campaigns. Several factors contribute to its iconic status. First and foremost, its rarity. Only 424 units were ever produced, with approximately 400 allocated to Japan, 16 officially imported to the UK, and a handful making their way to Australia. This limited production run immediately elevated its collectibility. The 22B was created to commemorate Subaru's 40th anniversary as well as their third consecutive WRC manufacturer's title in 1997. This celebratory context adds significant historical weight to the vehicle, making it more than just a production model but a rolling piece of motorsport history. Visually, the 22B stands out with its widened body, reminiscent of the WRC cars of the time. These aggressively flared arches aren't just for show; they accommodate a wider track, enhancing the car's stability and handling. The signature World Rally Blue paint, combined with gold-painted wheels, completes the iconic rally-inspired look. Under the hood, the 22B boasts a potent 2.2-liter turbocharged engine, a step up from the 2.0-liter found in other Impreza models. This larger displacement provides increased torque and a more responsive power delivery, making it an absolute joy to drive. The engine's robust construction and tuning potential have made it a favorite among tuners and enthusiasts alike. The 22B also features an adjustable rear wing, allowing drivers to fine-tune the car's aerodynamics for different driving conditions. This level of adjustability is a nod to its rally roots, where optimizing performance for various terrains and courses is crucial. Inside, the 22B features unique trim and badging, further setting it apart from other Impreza models. The Recaro seats provide excellent support, keeping occupants firmly in place during spirited driving. These interior details add to the overall sense of occasion, reminding you that you're behind the wheel of something truly special. The combination of rarity, motorsport heritage, unique design elements, and enhanced performance makes the Subaru Impreza 22B STI a truly special car, cementing its place in automotive history.

The History of the 22B

The history of the Subaru Impreza 22B STI is deeply intertwined with Subaru's rallying success in the 1990s. To truly appreciate the 22B, you've got to understand the context of Subaru's dominance in the World Rally Championship (WRC). During this era, Subaru, with legendary drivers like Colin McRae, Carlos Sainz, and Richard Burns, consistently challenged and often defeated established manufacturers like Ford and Mitsubishi. The Impreza became synonymous with rallying, and the 22B was born out of this golden age. In 1997, Subaru secured its third consecutive WRC manufacturer's title. To celebrate this achievement and the company's 40th anniversary, Subaru decided to create a limited-edition road car that resembled the rally machines that were tearing up the stages worldwide. The result was the 22B STI. The "22B" designation itself is shrouded in a bit of mystery. Some believe the "22" refers to the engine's displacement of 2.2 liters, and the "B" is a Subaru internal code for "turbo." Another theory suggests that the "B" represents Bilstein, the suspension manufacturer, though this is less likely. Regardless of the exact meaning, the name has become iconic. The car was designed with significant input from Subaru Tecnica International (STI), Subaru's performance division. STI was responsible for many of the upgrades and modifications that set the 22B apart from other Impreza models. This collaboration ensured that the 22B was not just a cosmetic upgrade but a genuinely enhanced performance machine. When the 22B was released, it was an instant hit. The initial allocation of 400 cars for the Japanese market sold out almost immediately. This overwhelming demand underscored the car's desirability and solidified its status as a future classic. Following the Japanese release, a small number of 22Bs were officially imported to the UK and Australia. These cars received some minor modifications to comply with local regulations, but they remained largely the same as the Japanese versions. The Subaru Impreza 22B STI quickly became a collector's item, with prices steadily rising over the years. Its combination of rarity, performance, and historical significance has made it one of the most sought-after Japanese cars of all time. Today, the 22B is not just a car; it's a symbol of an era when rallying was at its peak and Subaru was a dominant force. Its legacy continues to inspire car enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

The Performance and Handling

When we talk about the Subaru Impreza 22B STI, performance is a key part of its allure. Under the hood lies a 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which was a step up from the 2.0-liter found in standard Imprezas. This engine, coded as the EJ22G, produces a claimed 280 PS (276 horsepower), although many believe the actual output was higher due to the gentlemen's agreement among Japanese manufacturers at the time to limit horsepower figures. The increased displacement provides a significant boost in torque, making the 22B incredibly responsive and quick off the line. The turbocharger delivers boost smoothly, minimizing lag and providing a surge of power that's both exhilarating and addictive. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which is known for its robust construction and precise feel. This gearbox allows drivers to fully exploit the engine's powerband, making every shift a rewarding experience. The 22B's drivetrain includes Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This system ensures excellent traction in all conditions, distributing power evenly between the front and rear wheels. This not only enhances acceleration but also improves handling and stability, especially on loose or slippery surfaces. The 22B's suspension was specially tuned by STI to provide a perfect balance between road holding and ride comfort. The car features stiffer springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars compared to the standard Impreza, which reduces body roll and improves cornering performance. The widened track, thanks to the flared wheel arches, further enhances stability and grip. The steering is precise and communicative, providing the driver with plenty of feedback from the road. This allows for confident and accurate placement of the car, even on challenging roads. The brakes on the 22B are more than capable of handling the car's performance. They provide strong and consistent stopping power, inspiring confidence when driving at speed. The combination of all-wheel drive, a powerful engine, and a finely tuned suspension makes the Subaru Impreza 22B STI an incredibly capable and rewarding car to drive. Whether you're carving through twisty mountain roads or tackling a rally stage, the 22B delivers an unforgettable driving experience. Its performance and handling are a testament to Subaru's engineering expertise and its commitment to building cars that are both fun and functional.

Design and Aesthetics

The design and aesthetics of the Subaru Impreza 22B STI are key components of its legendary status. Its visual appeal is deeply rooted in its rally heritage, making it instantly recognizable and highly desirable. The most striking feature of the 22B is its widened body. The aggressively flared wheel arches are not just for show; they were designed to accommodate a wider track, which enhances the car's stability and handling. These wide arches give the 22B a muscular and purposeful stance, setting it apart from other Impreza models. The 22B is finished in Subaru's iconic World Rally Blue paint, a color that's synonymous with Subaru's rallying success. This vibrant blue hue is instantly recognizable and adds to the car's visual appeal. Complementing the blue paint are the gold-painted wheels, another signature element of Subaru's rally cars. The gold wheels provide a striking contrast to the blue body, creating a visually stunning combination. The 22B features a unique front bumper design with integrated fog lights. This bumper not only looks aggressive but also improves airflow to the engine, enhancing cooling and performance. At the rear, the 22B is equipped with an adjustable rear wing. This wing allows drivers to fine-tune the car's aerodynamics for different driving conditions. It also adds to the car's rally-inspired look. Inside, the 22B features Recaro seats, which provide excellent support and comfort. These seats keep occupants firmly in place during spirited driving, enhancing the overall driving experience. The interior also features unique trim and badging, further setting it apart from other Impreza models. These details add to the overall sense of occasion, reminding you that you're behind the wheel of something truly special. The Subaru Impreza 22B STI's design is a perfect blend of form and function. Every element, from the widened body to the adjustable rear wing, serves a purpose. But more than that, the 22B's design captures the spirit of Subaru's rallying success, making it a true icon of automotive design. Its aggressive and purposeful appearance, combined with its iconic color scheme, has made it one of the most recognizable and sought-after cars in the world.

Why the 22B Remains a Coveted Car

The Subaru Impreza 22B STI remains a highly coveted car for numerous reasons, each contributing to its enduring appeal and legendary status. One of the primary factors is its rarity. With only 424 units ever produced, the 22B is an exceedingly rare machine. This limited production run automatically elevates its collectibility, making it a prized possession for car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Its strong connection to Subaru's rallying heritage also contributes significantly to its desirability. The 22B was created to commemorate Subaru's WRC successes, and it embodies the spirit of rallying in every aspect of its design and performance. This link to motorsport history makes it more than just a car; it's a piece of racing history. The 22B's unique design and aesthetics also play a crucial role in its appeal. The widened body, World Rally Blue paint, and gold wheels create a visually stunning package that's instantly recognizable and highly sought after. Its performance capabilities further enhance its desirability. The 2.2-liter turbocharged engine, combined with Subaru's all-wheel-drive system, delivers an exhilarating driving experience that's both thrilling and rewarding. The 22B's legacy has been carefully cultivated over the years by enthusiasts and collectors. Its appearances in video games, movies, and other media have helped to maintain its popularity and introduce it to new generations of car lovers. The Subaru Impreza 22B STI has proven to be a solid investment. Prices for well-maintained examples have steadily increased over the years, making it a valuable asset for collectors. This investment potential adds another layer to its appeal, attracting those who see it as both a passion and a financial opportunity. The 22B offers a unique driving experience that's hard to replicate in modern cars. Its raw and engaging nature, combined with its rally-bred performance, provides a sense of connection to the road that's often missing in today's vehicles. Its combination of rarity, motorsport heritage, unique design, and exhilarating performance makes it a truly special car that will continue to be coveted by enthusiasts for years to come.