Facts on the Subaru Impreza WRX STi
by Rob WagnerThe Japanese-made Subaru Impreza WRX STi, or Subaru Tecnica International, is a high-performance stripped down all-wheel drive vehicle customized from the base Impreza production sports compact vehicle. The STi, with its designation changed to STI after 2006, was created to compete in the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile World Rally Championship races.
Different Versions
Between 1992 and 2001, six generations of the STi were produced in coupe, sedan and station wagon configurations.
Record Attempt
In 1992, the four-door WRX STi RA, or Record Attempt, was introduced as a stripped down, lightly equipped model with an electromechanical differential to mimic the racing version.
Celebrating Racing Wins
The 1995-96 STi was produced as a V-Limited edition to celebrate the automaker's World Rally Team victories during that racing season.
Order-Only
The third generation STi debuted in 1996-97 as an order-only lightweight model with an aluminum hood and no sound deadening paneling.
Limited Production
For 1998-99 the STi RA got a facelift along with all Imprezas, but only 1,000 were built, creating a four-month waiting list to obtain one.
Growth
The STi through 2001 sat on a 99.2-inch wheelbase, while the 2007 models grew to 103.3 inches.
Writer Bio
Rob Wagner is a journalist with over 35 years experience reporting and editing for newspapers and magazines. His experience ranges from legal affairs reporting to covering the Middle East. He served stints as a newspaper and magazine editor in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Wagner attended California State University, Los Angeles, and has a degree in journalism.