Japan vs Japan — 1996 vs 1992
| Impreza WRX STI 22B | Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 268 lb-ft | 246 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,212 cc | 1,994 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 sec | 5.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.9 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,646 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,520 mm |
| Length | 4,365 mm | 4,340 mm |
| Units Produced | 424 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $450,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1996 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 22B brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 answers with stronger collectibility, better value. 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. The 1996 and 1992 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1996 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 22B producing 280 hp and the 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8 delivering 280 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Subaru Impreza uses a Flat-4 Turbo DOHC 16V displacing 2,212 cc, while the Subaru Impreza WRX relies on a Flat-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (EJ20G) with 1,994 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1996 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 22B edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1996 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 22B commands a significant premium over the 1992 Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA GC8, 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.