Tracing the family tree of Subaru Impreza models is a complex business, especially when you consider overseas-only variants. As an example, the clumsily titled WRX STi Spec C Type RA was only ever sold in Japan, with production strictly limited to 300 units. This upgraded variant was distinguished by a carbon-fibre wing, front splitter and BBS wheels, while mechanical tweaks ranged from a revised steering rack and a 17-inch brake package through to transmission and engine oil coolers. 

Having been imported into the UK with only one previous owner recorded on the V5, this 2005 Spec C Type RA appears remarkably well preserved. It has had the same owner for almost seven years, in which time it has covered only short distances in dry conditions. There have been no adjustments to the mapping to artificially inflate its performance, no accidents have been reported in its lifetime, and the mileage (in kilometres) has reportedly been verified. 

Impreza WRX aficionados will doubtlessly spot the upgraded (and original) interior specification, which includes sports seats, a red-stitched steering wheel and aluminium sports pedals. The exterior has a roof ventilator, a HKS Silent Hi-Power exhaust, a bonnet air scoop and a carbon fibre Spec C Type RA boot lid badge. The Impreza’s normally spartan interior ambience is augmented with a turbo boost gauge, damping force controller and a Defi-Link gauge controller. 

The current owner notes a few stone chips across the iconic World Rally Blue Pearl paintwork and a marked front splitter. Having been largely spared use during harsh UK winters, the underside retains a powder coating and is rust-free. Similarly, Japanese OEM stickers recur from the sun visor to the petrol filler cap, underscoring this car’s origins. The impression is of a time capsule car that could have left the factory far more recently than 2005, with only superficial wear evident across its dashboard and seats. 

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