Japan vs Japan — 2008 vs 2003
| Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB | R2 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 320 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 318 lb-ft | 76 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,994 cc | 658 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.3 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 158 mph | 87 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.8 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,064 lbs | 1,786 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,625 mm | 2,360 mm |
| Length | 4,415 mm | 3,395 mm |
| Units Produced | 300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $110,000 | $8,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 3/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB brings more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged answers with lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Subaru has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB with the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB holds a clear advantage in raw power with 320 hp compared to 64 hp, a 256-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Subaru Impreza WRX STI uses a Flat-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (EJ207) displacing 1,994 cc, while the Subaru R2 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Supercharged with 658 cc. The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB claims a higher top speed at 158 mph compared to 87 mph. The Subaru R2 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1278 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB commands a significant premium over the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 GRB rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.