Description
The Subaru Impreza is a name forever etched into rallying folklore, a machine that became synonymous with the golden era of the World Rally Championship and the fearless brilliance of Colin McRae. Introduced in the early 1990s, the Impreza quickly established itself as one of the most formidable performance saloons of its generation, blending turbocharged power, razor-sharp all-wheel-drive handling and unmistakable presence. Revered by enthusiasts across the globe, the iconic World Rally Blue paintwork and legendary 555 livery remain amongst the most recognisable motorsport designs ever created.
First registered in 1995, this exceptional Subaru Impreza Version 2 555 STI is one of only 1, 000 examples produced for the Japanese market. Supplied with the highly desirable factory-option 555 livery package, this particular car stands apart even further through its rare Piero Liatti designation, offered alongside the more commonly seen Colin McRae and Carlos Sainz editions. A genuine piece of rally-inspired Subaru heritage, this is a car that captures the spirit of the WRC paddock perfectly whilst paying tribute to the late, great Colin McRae.
During its early life in Japan, the car was modified for local road racing use and still carried evidence of a 3rd place finish sticker upon the windscreen, adding another fascinating layer to its story. As a Version 2 STI, the car benefits from upgraded engine internals and cylinder head specification, along with a notably shorter ratio gearbox and rear differential, providing the sharper acceleration and heightened responsiveness these cars became celebrated for.
Imported from Japan in 2017, the Impreza has enjoyed a carefully curated ownership history with just three former keepers recorded. The first UK owner commissioned a professional respray and elected to remove the factory decals for a cleaner appearance. The second owner, clearly understanding the car’s significance, arranged an inspection by a former Prodrive mechanic who had previously worked alongside Colin McRae before purchase. Determined to return the car to its rightful identity, the iconic 555 livery was professionally reapplied by Dave Campbell, the very man responsible for applying the graphics to the original Prodrive rally cars of the era.
The third owner continued the car’s evolution, focusing on cosmetic refinement and chassis improvements before entering the vehicle into the 2019 Revival Rally Festival. A previous custodian first encountered the car at this very event and subsequently acquired it, continuing its careful development with period-correct seats, upgraded wheels, improved braking components, suspension enhancements and intercooler upgrades, all chosen to complement the character and usability of the car whilst respecting its heritage.
Today, the car is exceptionally well known within Subaru and rallying circles, having appeared at numerous shows and enthusiast gatherings across the country. It also proudly participated in the 3rd Edition of the Historic Rally Festival in both 2021 and 2022, further cementing its place amongst celebrated modern rally icons.
Accompanying the car is an impressive and comprehensive history file, including its original Japanese owner’s manual, stamped service booklet and original red Subaru document wallet. Extensive invoicing dating through the years details the care, maintenance and upgrades undertaken, whilst a substantial collection of MOT certificates records a history notably free from advisories. The V5 documentation allows previous keeper details to be traced, further supporting the car’s history and continuous enthusiast ownership.
Adding yet another unique touch, the headlining carries the signature of legendary co-driver Nicky Grist, forever associated with Subaru’s rallying success during the marque’s most celebrated years.
With values of flagship models such as the Subaru 22B continuing to soar into collector territory, cars of this calibre and character represent an increasingly rare opportunity to own an evocative and hugely engaging piece of Subaru rallying history. Raw, charismatic and instantly recognisable, this Impreza delivers all the theatre, nostalgia and excitement of the 1990s WRC era for a fraction of the cost — a true driver’s car with an unforgettable story to tell.
