Subaru Impreza WRX STi V3
Comparing a WRX to a WRX STI is like comparing a Mitsubishi Lancer GSR to a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. They do not really play the same ball game, let alone are on the same playing field.
Subaru Tecnica International (aka STI) was formed to develop and produce more sporty and refined versions of Subaru’s standard model line-up, a version which was also to compete on the world rally circuit.
This refinement of the standard model soon became a competition with the infamous Evolution models produced by Mitsubishi. Every time Mitsubishi or Subaru released a new version, the other would bring out a new model to counter it. STI does more than just put on a sticker on the latest models and say they’re fast.
The STI engineers take the standard WRX apart and then rebuild it, but with more superior bits and pieces where they’re deemed necessary. Their results speak for themselves on the V3; 206kW at 6500rpm and 343Nm at 4000 rpm. The STI model apparently did not achieve any power output increase over the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) WRX, which is also rated at 206kW, but the New Zealand-new WRX is only 162kW (as you can see, a big difference between the STI’s power and that of the New Zealand WRX).
What the STI does have over the JDM WRX is the torque, with the STI offering 30Nm more. The difference is mainly achieved by the use of a better-designed turbo – the WRX received a VF22 turbo, and the STI a VF23.The STI version also boosts higher, at 18psi, peak while the WRX runs 14psi peak. The STI model achieves the higher boost safely with bigger fuel injectors and forged pistons, while the WRX retains the cast stickers here and there.
The basic and most obvious upgrade is the exhaust, which transforms the STI by not only giving it more power, but also that distinctive growl which sets it apart from the rest. The next thing to look at would be a cold air intake or possibly an engine management system.
A simple engine management system enhancement would be to fit a boost controller to make sure you don’t over-boost your engine, or even just a fuel controller to stop the car from running too rich with the new shiny exhaust you added to the STI WRX. The next best bang for your buck would be in the suspension department, with a swap of the sway bars.
These control body motion and weight transfer, and in my opinion the rear should be upgraded to give the car more balanced feel and to dial out the factory required understeer. But it would be best to talk to a specialist suspension shop about this in further detail.
Well, in the end I can only lead the horse to the water but I cannot make it drink. In other words, here is a great car that rivals the Mitsubishi Evolutions, but there seems to be no logical explanation as to why it is so unpopular in New Zealand. If you are in the market for a 4WD sedan with a whole lot of go, don’t look further than the WRX STI V3.
They might not have as large a following out there as the Evolutions, but in my opinion, people of New Zealand, that is a good thing. You can stop being one of the 96 million sheep out there and try and do something different for a change. And if you ever get stuck on your path to glory, the good people at the www.wrxsticlub.co.nz will be more than willing to give you a hand.
2003 Price Guide
Condition 1
Completely modified in mint condition. $26,001+
Condition 2
Excellent condition with a few modifications $24,001-26,000
Condition 3
Average condition $22,001-24,000
Condition 4
High kays, average condition $19,000-22,000
Specs
Engine: EJ20, 2.0-litre flat four, intercooled turbo
Driveline: Five-speed manual with STI differentials
Suspension: MacPherson strut suspension (front), trailing arm with a beam axle suspension (rear)
Brakes: All-round ventilated discs with four-piston callipers on the front and two-piston callipers on the back Performance: 208kW @ 6500rpm, 343Nm @ 4000 rpm
Source: Performance Car