Japan vs Japan — 1998 vs 2002
| Impreza 22B STI | Silvia S15 Spec-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 250 hp |
| Top Speed | 149 mph | 155 mph |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | 2,734 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,525 mm |
| Length | 4,340 mm | 4,445 mm |
| Units Produced | 424 | 30,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI makes a stronger case on paper with more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. However, the 2002 Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R counters with higher top speed, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI for outright capability, or the 2002 Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Coupe cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI versus the 2002 Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R. Both hail from Modern classic and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 250 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Flat-4 Turbo in the Subaru Impreza 22B STI versus a Inline-4 Turbo in the Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R. The 2002 Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R claims a higher top speed at 155 mph compared to 149 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 424 units built, the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI is considerably scarcer than the Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R's 30,000 examples.