The 25-year restriction on imports has significantly influenced American car enthusiasts. It dictates that almost any car can be obtained if
one is patient enough.
Now, you have the opportunity to acquire the iconic
Subaru 22B… as long as you can manage the cost.
A prime specimen of Subaru’s highly esteemed rally vehicle has recently been auctioned off at Bring a Trailer. According to
the auction listing, this particular car was #135 out of a limited
production run of just
400 units designated for the Japanese market, excluding an additional 24 units crafted by Subaru for export. Interestingly, this vehicle arrived in the US ahead of schedule. In 2021, the 1998 model was imported by a dealer under a “show and display” exemption, bypassing the typical 25-year waiting period.
The 22B is widely regarded as one of the most coveted Subaru models ever produced. This two-door rally masterpiece was constructed with a body that is 3 inches wider and equipped with a larger 2.2-liter turbo engine delivering 276
horsepower. The power is distributed among all four wheels through the 22B’s 5-speed manual transmission and a digitally adaptable center differential. The special edition also features distinctive hood, fender, and bumper panels, along with a rear spoiler. The upgraded Bilstein suspension and the striking gold 17-inch wheels are among its additional highlights.
This specific model was sold for $226,000 despite having covered 115,000 miles. While this is a significant sum, it’s not the highest recorded sale. A UK sale in 2020 fetched $370,000 for a pristine example with a mere 271 miles on the odometer, having been sparingly driven since its production in 1998.
These exorbitant prices have stimulated the creation of imitation and replicate models, some of which are valued even higher than the original. Prodrive can craft a bespoke 22B vision for you at $565,000, featuring an impressive 400 horsepower. Cusco has also developed its own reproduction, projected to be notably more affordable if the original version is beyond your financial reach.
Due to the limited production and high demand, acquiring a Subaru 22B is a challenging endeavor. Nevertheless, now that these cars have reached the 25-year milestone, one less obstacle stands in the way of bringing one into the US. Happy hunting!
Have a lead? Feel free to contact the author at: lewin@thedrive.com
