Launched in Japan with the WRX badge, the turbocharged Impreza boasted a power output of some 240bhp with official UK sales beginning in late 1994, however, to conform to UK regulations, the engine was re-tuned to 208bhp and the car was badged as the Impreza 2000 Turbo AWD. This was a car that changed the motoring public's perception of affordable performance offering Escort Cosworth-beating performance for just under £18,000 - £8,000 less than the Ford resulting in many enthusiasts migrating from one 'Blue Oval' to another.

The Impreza was available as a four-door saloon or five-door hatchback/station wagon, however, Subaru chose to continue their longstanding use of the the four-cam EJ20 boxer engine with the option of permanent four-wheel drive. According to Subaru, this configuration minimised body-roll due to the lower centre of gravity compared with offset engines in most other vehicles. The boxer design was well balanced and provided good vibration mitigation with the movement of each piston being largely countered by a piston in the opposing cylinder bank, eliminating the need for a counter-weighted rotating crankshaft (harmonic balancer). Torque steer is also minimised with this type of powertrain layout since the front drive shafts are of equal length and weight.

First registered on 15th September 2000, this unique Impreza was supplied in Mica Metallic Red from Stan Palmer Subaru in Carlisle to a no doubt very excited Mr. Philip Hall. Mr. Hall must have used the car as a weekend toy rather than a daily driver, as over the next 23 years of ownership by the time of sale, it had only covered just over 36,000 miles. Never altered from its factory specification, this car presents in incredible time warp condition and boasts a set of rare factory optioned 17” Brescia alloy wheels, this striking example wouldn't be out of place in a museum. A comprehensive service history accompanies the car with a service book showing 11 stamps and a meticulous record showing when every cambelt change was carried out, as well as the date and mileage at every service. The original Subaru bookpack is also supplied, as well as various MoT test certificates, invoices and old tax discs. Bought by the vendor having received a glowing inspection report on the car, his home renovation plans now demand a cash injection and hence the car is only available for sale for this reason. Reported by the vendor to run and drive extremely well and coming with a MoT test certificate which was issued in September. To find a low mileage and low ownership Impreza, especially one that hasn't been modified is rare indeed and an opportunity not to be missed. This isn't something that would come to market very often. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 2000
Make: Subaru
Model: Impreza Turbo 2000 AWD (GC8)
Registration: X629 SHH
Chassis No: JF1GC8KD3YG055036
Odometer: 36,645

* Only one former keeper
* Totally standard
* Impeccably presented