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Amid the concerning news of Subaru’s decision to halt production of a new WRX STI, the only available STIs going forward will be older models. Seizing this opportunity is an Australian STI owner who has put up for sale a remarkable edition of Subaru’s iconic rally car: The 1998 22B STI.
Frequently referred to as the “22B,” this unique two-door variant of the first-generation STI was introduced in honor of Subaru’s 40th anniversary. Notable distinctions include a broader body, an EJ engine with increased displacement to 2.2 liters from 2.0, and distinct hood, fender, bumper, and rear spoiler designs. It boasts an officially stated 276 horsepower directed to all wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, an electronically modifiable central differential, and a mechanical limited-slip differential in the rear. The vehicle also features Bilstein suspension, an enhanced ceramic-disk clutch, and larger 17-inch wheels which collectively establish it as the quintessential STI. While Japan saw the production of 400 units, only 24 were distributed to “export markets,” with five of those intended for Australia. However, as per the seller, this specific unit was part of the 400 Japanese units but was later imported to Australia in 2007.
Even in times before the pandemic, inflation, and the demise of the STI model, this vehicle would unquestionably command a significant price. Currently, the bid stands at approximately $262,000 USD (in Australian currency). To put it into perspective, that’s nearly nine times the cost of a brand new WRX. The auction still has four days remaining for the price to potentially escalate further.
This specific vehicle has only traveled 18,500 miles, with the current owner having added just 1,300 miles since importing it to Australia 15 years ago. Apart from an aftermarket double-DIN head unit with navigation, the car remains unaltered with alleged original paint throughout. The purchase includes all original documentation, jack, tool kit, and spare tire. Additionally, the sale includes a unique New South Wales vanity plate that reads “FHI 22B,” with the first part serving as an abbreviation for Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru’s former legal entity name. To most people, it may not even register as a vanity plate, but to those in the know, it holds significance.
The vehicle itself may not stand out to everyone due to its relative anonymity. While the blue paint and gold wheels provide hints of its uniqueness, only the devoted rally enthusiasts will recognize its status as a Subaru that holds the value of a brand-new supercar.
If you have the funds, investing in this 22B could prove to be highly lucrative. Typically, the most iconic versions of discontinued cars tend to appreciate significantly over time.
Do you have a tip or query for the author? You can contact him at: chris.tsui@thedrive.com.
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