Highlights

Rare black example with a high Japanese auction grade of 4B
Comprehensive reconditioning carried out, including suspension, brakes, cambelt and water pump
12 Japanese service entries supporting the recorded mileage
First time offered for sale since import to the UK

The Appeal

The Version IV STi occupies a hallowed place in the Impreza lineage. Produced for the 1998 model year, it represented the culmination of Subaru's Group A rally programme and is widely regarded as one of the most desirable iterations of the GC8 chassis. With its close-ratio five-speed gearbox, driver-focused cockpit and characteristically purposeful stance, the Version IV remains a benchmark for the turbocharged all-wheel-drive sports saloon.

This particular example stands out for several reasons. Finished in black — a rare colour for the Version IV STi — it was sourced directly from Japan and graded 4B, reflecting its condition at the time of import. It has been held by Fairmont Sports and Classics as part of their private collection and has never previously been offered for sale on the open market. Fairmont, a specialist in high-grade JDM Subarus, carried out a thorough programme of reconditioning upon arrival, encompassing new front and rear shock absorbers, Prodrive P1 springs, vented brake discs and pads, top mounts, an RCM cam belt and water pump kit with uprated pulleys, all ancillary belts, a wheel refurbishment and a service.

The car is accompanied by its bookpack, which includes documentation for no fewer than 12 services carried out in Japan, all of which are consistent with the recorded mileage of 36,000 miles. The vendor describes this as a very well-preserved example of the Version IV STi, and prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to view in person to appreciate the standard to which it has been prepared.

History and Paperwork

Right-hand drive JDM import, registered in the UK on an S-registration plate (1998)
Imported from Japan by Fairmont Sports and Classics and held as part of their collection
First time offered for sale since UK import
Bookpack present, including documentation for 12 Japanese services supporting the recorded mileage
Odometer displays in kilometres; 36,000 miles indicated
MOT expired on 13 February 2026

The Condition

High Japanese auction grade of 4B
Black paintwork, noted by the vendor as a rare colour for the Version IV STi
Bodywork appears sound and well-kept
Alloy wheels refurbished
Bonnet insulation replaced
Interior is very nicely presented
Prospective buyers are encouraged to view in person and study the accompanying photographs

The Mechanics

2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine
Five-speed manual gearbox
Front and rear shock absorbers replaced
Prodrive P1 front and rear springs fitted
Front and rear top mounts replaced
Vented brake discs and pads replaced
RCM cambelt and water pump replaced with uprated pulleys
All ancillary belts replaced

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.