1997 Subaru Impreza STI Type 555 Edition

The Subaru Impreza 22B STI (1998) is the holy grail of Imprezas. EJ22 2.2 stroked turbo producing 280hp (actually 320hp+). Widebody two-door, forged internals, unique specification. Just 424 built worldwide (400 Japan, 16 UK, 5 Australia, 3 prototypes). Commemorated 1997 WRC title and 40th anniversary. The ultimate Impreza - a museum piece with stratospheric values. Fakes exist, expert verification essential.

GC8 Impreza: Engine: EJ20 turbo - timing belt every 4yr/40k miles critical, head gaskets (EJ20 less prone than EJ25 but still possible), turbo wear, boost control issues. Gearbox: 5-speed synchros wear, especially 2nd gear. DCCD (STI): Can fail, check operation. Rust: Major concern on 25-30 year old cars - sills, rear arches, chassis rails, scuttle panel, boot floor. All STIs are JDM imports - verify paperwork, check km vs miles conversion. Values rising strongly. Budget £2-4k annually maintenance, specialist essential.

22B STI (holy grail - 424 built), P1 (UK-only 1,000 built), STI Version VI (best GC8), Two-door coupe, Low kilometres, Unmolested/standard, Japanese auction sheet with grade 4+, DCCD working correctly, Full service history