Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Classic Sale at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show 2026 on Saturday the 21st of March - Sunday the 22nd of March, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT.
Registration N489 SOC, first registered January 1996, is believed to be amongst the earliest UK-supplied Impreza Turbo 2000s, representing a highly collectible example of Subaru’s landmark performance saloon
Supplied new as an official Subaru UK press vehicle, underpinning its historic significance and placing it at the forefront of the model’s launch period in Britain
Subsequently owned by the McRae family between 1996 and 1999, used as personal transport and understood to have been driven by Colin, Jimmy and Alister McRae, lending this example exceptional motorsport provenance
Presented in notably well-preserved condition throughout, with a correct UK-specification interior that remains highly original and commensurate with careful ownership
The driver and passenger sun visors are respectively signed by Jimmy McRae, five-time British Rally Champion, and Alister McRae, 1995 British Rally Champion, together with Max McRae, representing three generations of rally pedigree
Benefiting from significant recent mechanical attention, including an engine rebuild in August 2022, replacement brakes all round and the fitment of a new OEM exhaust system
Following a period of limited use and storage, a degree of routine recommissioning may be appropriate, however, the car is understood to be fundamentally sound and offers considerable potential as an investment-grade collector’s example
