The 22B STi Subaru
The 22B STi WRX model was introduced in 1998, produced between March and August. This iteration was developed to mark Subaru’s 40th anniversary and the company’s third consecutive manufacturers’ title.
The anticipation for the 22B was high, with all 400 Japanese units selling out within 48 hours. The model saw distribution beyond Japan, with 16 cars going to the United Kingdom and 5 being sent to Australia. In the UK, 16 of these cars were modified by Prodrive with longer gear ratios and UK-spec lights. Separately, 50 22Bs had been imported into the UK privately, and the 16 Prodrive cars were not registered until 1999.
Mechanically, the 22B featured the new EJ22G power unit. The displacement of this engine was increased by 0.2 litres over the standard STi engine. While the rated power remained 276 bhp (206 kW), the maximum torque increased to 363 Nm (268 lb-ft). This torque figure comes on earlier at 3,200 rpm, compared to the standard STi at 4,000 rpm.
Performance tests show the 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) time ranging from around 4.2 seconds to 4.7 seconds. The car can hit 160 km/h (100 mph) in as little as 13.1 seconds and complete a quarter mile in 13.5 seconds.
Handling components include Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs. For stopping power, the car features Brembo four-pot front calipers and two-pot rear calipers. The drivetrain is managed by a 5-speed close ratio manual gearbox, mated to a metal-and-ceramic clutch. The exterior styling is notable for its unique body. The overall body was widened with massively flared wheel arches, drawing inspiration from a Peter Stevens WRC car. A unique bonnet/hood, front and rear fenders, and bumper were crafted for the 22B. All 22B STi cars were finished in a special blue colour and equipped with special gold 17-inch BBS wheels wrapped in 235/40-17 tyres.
Read the full guide: Subaru Gen 1 Buyers Guide
