Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA STI Version III 1997
£9,800
09/06/26
CAR OVERVIEW
Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA STI Version III 1997
Vehicle Overview
The Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA STI Version III is one of the most desirable homologation-era Imprezas ever produced. Developed during Subaru’s dominant World Rally Championship years, the Type RA models were built with performance and competition use in mind, featuring a more focused specification than standard WRX variants. Today these early GC8 models have become highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts looking for an authentic piece of Subaru’s rally heritage.
This 1997 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA STI Version III is finished in Subaru Blue (74F) and paired with a manual transmission and symmetrical four-wheel drive system. Showing 146,645 km (91,122 miles), this example carries an Auction Grade 3 and Interior Grade C. While the auction report highlights several cosmetic and mechanical issues, vehicles of this rarity continue to attract strong interest as clean GC8 examples become increasingly difficult to source.
Car Details
- Make: Subaru
- Model: Impreza WRX Type RA STI Version III
- Chassis Code: GC8
- Registration Date: July 1997
- Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged Boxer
- Transmission: Manual
- Drive Type: 4WD
- Mileage: 146,645 km
- Mileage: 91,122 miles
- Exterior Colour: Blue (74F)
- Fuel: Petrol
- Auction Grade: 3
- Interior Grade: C
- Seats: 5
Auction Information
- Auction House: Tokyo
- Auction Date: 11 June 2026
- Lot Number: 10001
- Auction Start Price: £4,000
- Autoselecta Bid Suggestion: £8,000 to £10,000
- Bids must be submitted before 9pm on 10 June 2026.
Equipment and Features
The vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, four-wheel drive system, air conditioning, power steering and power windows. As a WRX Type RA STI Version III, it represents one of Subaru’s most focused road-going rally homologation models from the GC8 generation.
Auction Notes
The seller notes that the left-hand door mirror folding mechanism is not operating correctly. An abnormal engine noise has been reported and the auction house advises against revving the engine. A heater control issue has also been recorded.
Condition Overview
The auction inspector has noted interior dirt and wear throughout the cabin. The driver’s seat has a tear and the steering wheel shows wear consistent with age and mileage. Paint deterioration has been recorded on upper body panels and the rear spoiler. Wheel scratches and door mirror scratches are present.
The damage map records an A3 large scratch and Y2 crack on the roof area, W3 repair marks on both sides of the vehicle, a W2 repair mark on the left side, A2 scratches, a U1 small dent and an AU2 dent with scratch. Underbody rust has also been noted.
Overall, this vehicle has been graded 3 due to a combination of cosmetic deterioration, previous repairs, interior wear and mechanical concerns. Buyers should view this example as a project, restoration candidate or collector vehicle requiring recommissioning rather than a turnkey example.
Why Import Through Autoselecta
Autoselecta has over 30 years of experience sourcing, importing and exporting vehicles from Japan. We provide full auction sheet translations, vehicle sourcing, shipping management, customs assistance and registration support. Our group also includes a manufacturer-approved bodyshop, MOT testing station and specialist detailing and paint protection facilities, allowing us to manage the entire process from auction purchase through to final delivery.
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AUCTION CAUTION NOTES
CAR OVERVIEW
A1- Small scratch
A2- Scratch
A3- Large scratch
E1- Few dimples
E2- Many dimples
E3- Heavy dimples
U1- Small dent
U2- Dent
U3- Large dent
W1- Repair mark / wave
W2- Wavy panel
S1- Rust
S2- Heavy rust
C1- Corrosion
P- Paint marked / faded
H- Faded / need polish
X- Element requires replacement
XX- Replaced after accident
*- Light scratch / polish
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09/06/26
Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA STI Version III 1997
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