A seriously quick, increasingly desirable classic Subaru with an interesting history, substantial modifications and enormous potential.
Very reluctantly offered for sale due to the loss of my storage.
This is a rather special Subaru Impreza 2000 Turbo, originally a Japanese import and subsequently converted to a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine by a previous owner.
It's a fantastic-looking car with a wonderful character, an incredible soundtrack and genuinely impressive performance. It's also a car that deserves to be owned by somebody who understands modified Subarus and can finish what was clearly once a very ambitious project.
I must also make any buyer aware this vehicle was subject to an Insurance claim in May 2011 and is now recorded as a CAT C. Vic Check passed July 2011.
Condition and Driving Experience
The car presents extremely well, particularly from a short distance, and attracts positive comments wherever it goes.
Naturally, it's not a concours example. On closer inspection, there are some minor bodywork imperfections that would benefit from attention. I've tried to show these honestly in the photographs and accompanying video.
That said, it's considerably better than many examples I've seen, and with some cosmetic improvements it could look absolutely stunning.
On the road, the car drives exceptionally well.
The suspension feels tight and composed, with no noticeable knocks, rattles or unwanted noises. The engine pulls incredibly strongly, the gearbox feels excellent, and the overall driving experience is exactly what you'd hope for from a properly exciting, old-school turbocharged Subaru.
And the noise? Absolutely fantastic!
Engine, Performance and Mapping
This is where things get interesting.
The original 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has been replaced with a 2.5-litre unit, and the car has clearly received a number of additional modifications.
I've been told that the engine is producing in excess of 400 bhp.
Now, I want to be completely transparent: I have no rolling-road printout or independent evidence to substantiate that figure, so please treat it as information passed on to me rather than a verified claim.
What I can tell you is that I've driven plenty of quick cars over the years, and this Subaru is seriously fast. It feels considerably quicker than a standard Impreza 2000 Turbo, and the way it delivers its power is addictive.
However, the car does require proper mapping and final setup.
I understand it's currently running on what has been described to me as a base map. It occasionally hunts at idle and smells slightly rich when running.
Once moving, it drives very well, but I would strongly recommend having it inspected and professionally mapped by a Subaru specialist before making full use of its performance.
I don't claim to be an expert in modified Subaru engines, and I'd much rather be upfront about what I know and what I don't.
The History – Why Don't I Know Everything About It?
A fair question, and one I'm happy to explain.
A friend of mine in the motor trade originally purchased this car after a former employee told him what a fantastic Subaru it was.
Unfortunately, it ended up being parked inside and largely forgotten about for approximately two years.
When that employee eventually left, my friend was left with a modified Subaru that he didn't really have the time or interest to do anything with.
That's where I came in.
I purchased the car and arranged for the fuel lines to be replaced, which I understand was the original reason it had been taken off the road.
Following that work, I had the car put through an MOT.
As far as I've been told, the 2.5-litre conversion was carried out by a previous owner as part of a substantial, long-term project that was never completely finished.
Several people familiar with modified Subarus have since looked over the car and commented on the engine conversion, aftermarket turbocharger and the apparent level of expenditure involved.
I've even been told that breaking the car for parts could realise a substantial amount of money.
Personally, I'd much rather see it remain complete and be enjoyed by somebody who appreciates what it is.
What Does It Need?
In my opinion, there are two main areas to address.
1. Professional engine mapping and setup
The car would benefit from a proper inspection and mapping session with somebody who knows these engines and their associated modifications.
2. Cosmetic improvements
There are a number of minor bodywork imperfections that could be addressed to bring the exterior up to a really impressive standard.
My personal estimate is that around £1,000 spent with a suitable bodyshop could make a significant difference, potentially less if you're capable of doing some of the work yourself.
Of course, these are my own estimates, not quotations or guarantees.
With the right attention, I believe this could become a genuinely fantastic example.
Photographs, Videos and Viewings
I've made every effort to describe the car accurately, including its imperfections.
Please study all the photographs and watch the accompanying videos, as they should give you a much better understanding of the car than words alone.
If you'd like close-up photographs of any particular components, modifications or areas of the bodywork, just ask.
I'm also more than happy to arrange a video call and walk around the car with you.
I would actively encourage serious buyers to come and view the Subaru before bidding.
This is a highly modified, older performance car, and I'd much rather the winning bidder knew exactly what they were purchasing.
Why Auction It?
Quite simply, I know enough about cars to appreciate that this Subaru is something interesting, but I don't pretend to know the precise specification or value of all its modifications.
I also know it's not a car I want to give away.
Rather than advertise it at an arbitrary asking price, I've decided to let the auction determine its value.
I'm hoping it finds its way to a Subaru enthusiast who can appreciate the work that's already gone into it and has the knowledge to take it to the next level.
Auction Terms and Collection
The vehicle is located in Hassocks, West Sussex (BN6).
We're conveniently situated just off the A23, approximately 20 minutes south of Gatwick Airport, with Hassocks railway station on the mainline between London and Brighton.
Please remember this is an older, extensively modified performance vehicle requiring further setup, and it is being described accordingly.
Thank you for taking the time to read the advert. Good luck with the bidding, and I hope this fantastic old Subaru goes to somebody who will give it the attention it deserves.
https://youtu.be/GpdBzqqmkF8