Japan vs Japan — 2001 vs 1998
| Impreza WRX STI Spec C GDB | Impreza 22B STI | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 320 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,994 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 158 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.1 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,525 mm | 2,520 mm |
| Length | 4,415 mm | 4,340 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 424 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2001 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C GDB brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI answers with stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. The 2001 and 1998 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2001 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C GDB holds a clear advantage in raw power with 320 hp compared to 280 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Flat-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (EJ207) in the Subaru Impreza WRX STI versus a Flat-4 Turbo in the Subaru Impreza 22B STI. The 2001 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C GDB claims a higher top speed at 158 mph compared to 149 mph. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.