Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 2003
| Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 | R2 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 246 lb-ft | 76 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,994 cc | 658 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 149 mph | 87 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,646 lbs | 1,786 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,360 mm |
| Length | 4,340 mm | 3,395 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $8,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 3/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 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 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 with the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 64 hp, a 216-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Subaru Impreza WRX uses a Flat-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (EJ20G) displacing 1,994 cc, while the Subaru R2 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Supercharged with 658 cc. The 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 claims a higher top speed at 149 mph compared to 87 mph. The Subaru R2 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 860 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 commands a significant premium over the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.