In the annals of automotive history, few machines command the reverence of the 1998 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 22B. More than a mere vehicle, it stands as a “supercar stormer”, a motorsport legend forged in the crucible of rallying’s golden age.
Hailed as the undisputed “King of Subarus” and the very “deity of the iconic WRX”, its driving experience is nothing short of thrilling and profoundly engaging.
Its mystique was amplified by extreme scarcity; a mere 424 units were ever unleashed upon the world – 400 destined for the fervent Japanese domestic market, 21 allocated for discerning export (16 to the UK, 5 to Australia), and three elusive prototypes.
The demand was instantaneous and ferocious: all 400 Japanese examples vanished from showrooms within an astonishing 30 minutes to 48 hours of release. This was no plush grand tourer; deliberately conceived as a “stripped out car”, it eschewed comforts like sound-deadening, a radio, or air-conditioning, even omitting ABS brakes and a CD player to shave precious weight.
Yet, it was precisely this uncompromised, performance-first philosophy that fueled its immediate acquisition by passionate fans, not just racing outfits, cementing its legacy as an unparalleled icon and a highly coveted collector’s treasure.
History and Development of WRX STI 22B
The 22B emerged from Subaru’s dominant run in WRC (the World Rally Championship) during the 1990s, a period where they were “the manufacturer to beat”. Subaru secured three consecutive manufacturers’ titles from 1995 to 1997 , with Colin McRae winning the drivers’ championship in 1995. The 22B STi, introduced in 1998, celebrated both Subaru’s 40th anniversary and their third World Rally Championship title.
Its concept, the “WRcar-STi” debuted at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show to “overwhelmingly positive reaction”, leading to its swift production as a limited edition. The rapid sell-out of all 400 Japanese units within minutes to hours was a testament to its immense anticipation and Subaru’s deliberate strategy of scarcity, transforming it into an “instant classic” and a “collector’s item from the outset”.
Decoding the “22B” – Name and Nomenclature
The enigmatic ’22B’ designation is far more than a mere alphanumeric code; it’s a carefully crafted cipher, a testament to Subaru’s engineering prowess and a subtle nod to its championship heritage. The ’22’ unequivocally points to the heart of this beast: a bespoke 2.2-liter engine, a significant departure from the standard 2.0-liter units that powered its Impreza brethren. As for the ‘B,’ it’s not a reference to its Bilstein suspension, as some might surmise, but rather an internal Subaru code, signifying ‘Turbo’.
Yet, the true depth of its nomenclature lies in a clever, almost clandestine detail: ’22B’ is the hexadecimal equivalent of ‘555’. This numerical Easter egg serves as a direct, powerful homage to State Express 555, the British tobacco giant that adorned Subaru’s iconic blue and gold WRC machines as their principal sponsor from 1993 to 2004.
This intricate, layered naming strategy doesn’t just define the car; it deepens its mystique, forging an unbreakable link to its legendary rally lineage and resonating profoundly with enthusiasts who appreciate its coded connection to motorsport glory.
Sculpted for Speed – Design and Aesthetics
The 22B’s design is a direct reflection of its rally heritage. Its aggressive wide-body, inspired by Subaru’s WRC cars and influenced by designer Peter Stevens , widened the car by “just over 3 inches” or 80mm. Every 22B was finished in Sonic Blue Mica (World Rally Blue) with distinctive gold 17-inch BBS wheels. Functional elements included a two-way adjustable rear spoiler and additional hood vents.
The interior was driver-focused, featuring Recaro sports seats and a Momo steering wheel , and was stripped down for weight, notably lacking ABS brakes and a CD player. Each car had a limited-edition plaque. This comprehensive design cemented its role as a potent “road-going tribute” to Subaru’s rally success.
Engineering for Performance – Technical Specifications
At the very heart of the 22B’s formidable capabilities lay its unique EJ22G 2.2-liter turbocharged flat-four engine. This hand-built powerplant was a masterclass in robust engineering, featuring factory forged pistons and a closed-deck block design for unparalleled structural strength. While officially rated at 276 horsepower (280 PS) at 6,000 rpm – a figure adhering to Japan’s then-prevailing “gentleman’s agreement” on power limits – whispers from the paddock and dyno sheets alike suggested its true output comfortably exceeded 300 horsepower, with some reports even pushing towards 345 bhp.
This understated official figure only added to the car’s mystique, hinting at a hidden ferocity. Torque was equally impressive, peaking at a substantial 267 lb-ft (363 Nm) from a remarkably accessible 3,200 rpm. To maintain peak performance under duress, an innovative intercooler system, complete with a water spray, diligently worked to dissipate heat, ensuring consistent power delivery.
Power was delivered via Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive system) and a strengthened 5-speed manual transmission with short gear ratios. It included a driver-adjustable center differential. The chassis featured a lower, stiffer suspension with Bilstein dampers and springs, and upgraded four-pot two-pot/front rear STI calipers.
Key performance of WRX STI 22B:
- Top Speed: Over 150 mph (241 km/h).
- 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h): Officially 5.0 seconds (5.3 seconds for 0-100 km/h) , with some sources citing 3.9 to 4.7 seconds.
- Weight: 2800 lbs (1270 kg).
Homologation or Homage? The WRC Connection
The 22B is often mistakenly called a “homologation special”. However, it was “not a genuine homologation special” but rather a “celebration, a loose homage” to the WRC car. WRC rules in 1998 required a 2.0-liter engine, which the 22B’s 2.2-liter engine did not meet. The standard WRX, not the 22B, served as the actual homologation model.
The WRX STI 22B was designed as a “road-going tribute” to bring the “look and feel of the racer to the street”. Three prototypes were built with “000/400” VIN plates. One was famously gifted to rally legend Colin McRae, celebrating Subaru’s third WRC title. The other two went to Prodrive’s David Lapworth and McRae’s co-driver Nicky Grist. McRae’s ownership significantly boosts its value. The enduring “homologation myth” highlights the car’s powerful imagery and its successful embodiment of Subaru’s rally glory.
Market Value and Collectibility – A Coveted Icon
The 22B is a highly coveted collector’s item due to its extreme rarity and demand. With only 424 units produced globally , the 400 JDM units sold out within 30 minutes to 48 hours. This initial enthusiasm led to meticulous care by owners, keeping many in pristine condition.
Its market value has skyrocketed. Initially “colossally higher” than a standard STi , recent auction sales include unit #156 for $317,555 in April 2021 , and Colin McRae’s prototype (#000/400) for a staggering £480,500 (approx. $611,000) in August 2023. The CLASSIC.COM Market Benchmark (CMB) is currently $194,139.
Factors contributing to its collectibility include its rarity, rally heritage, unique design, performance, provenance (especially McRae’s car), and cultural icon status among JDM enthusiasts. The “forbidden fruit” effect in the U.S., where it only became legally importable under the 25-year rule in March 2023 , further inflated prices due to pent-up demand.
WRX STI 22B Impressions and Reviews
Driving the 22B is a raw, engaging, and memorable experience, described as “fantastically analog” and “thrilling”. Its 2800-pound (1270 kg) curb weight makes it feel “light everywhere”, contributing to its “super-quick steering” and nimble agility. The EJ22G engine “pulls with visceral vigor” , delivering “stronger mid-range engine response” and power “all the way to 8000 rpm”.
The chassis offers “great chassis balance” and “supreme grip levels”, with a “lower, stiffer suspension” providing exceptional handling, though some found the ride “unbearable” on rough roads. Despite lacking ABS, drivers reported “no problem” in wet conditions. Overall, it’s hailed as the “most iconic Subaru of all time” and “one of the greatest Japanese cars of its era”, often called the “ultimate Impreza”. Its “analog” feel and directness are central to its appeal, offering a driving purity increasingly rare in modern cars.
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Rally
The 1998 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 22B is a monumental achievement, directly reflecting Subaru’s WRC dominance and a testament to strategic limited production. Its rally-inspired design, uncompromising performance, and carefully crafted narrative – from its layered name to its status as a “homage” – cemented its place as an automotive legend. The immediate sell-out, escalating market value, and fervent adoration from enthusiasts underscore its profound cultural impact. It represents a golden era of rallying and embodies a purist’s ideal of analog driving, ensuring its enduring legacy as “Rally Royalty for the Road”.
