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Comparison Test:
Ford Mustang Shelby GT vs. 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

"Point and snort all you want at the STI's frumpy grille and four doors. It's a superior car to the Shelby in nearly every sense."

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=123965#6

Car and Driver:

FULL TEST: 2008 SUBARU IMPREZAWRX STI

http://www.caranddriver.com/roadtests/14455/full-test-2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti.html

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http://www.subaru.com/shop/overview.jsp?model=IMPREZAWRX&trim=STI&command=overview

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Specifications:

Body Size (length/width/height) 4,415 X 1,795 X 1,475 mm

Wheel Base 2,625 mm

Track (front/rear) 1,530/1,540 mm

Curb Weight 1,480 kg

Engine Type Horizontally-Opposed, 4-cylinder Dual AVCS*** 16Valve DOHC Intercooled twin scroll Turbo Engine

***AVCS:Active valve control system

Bore/Stroke 92.0 X 75.0 mm

Displacement 1,994 cc

Max. Output 227kW(308PS)/6,400 rpm

Max. Torque 422Nm(43.0kgfm)/4,400rpm

Fuel System EGI(Multi point sequential injection)

Fuel tank capacity 60 litre

Transmission Type 6MT:Forward 6-speed/Reverse 1-speed

Gear Ratio 3.636 (1st)

2,375 (2nd)

1.761 (3rd)

1.346 (4th)

1.062 (5th)

0.842 (6th)

3.545 (Reverse)

Final drive axle ratio 3.900

Suspension(front/rear) Independent, MacPherson strut type/Double wishbone type

Tires 245/40R18

305 HP -
Standard Equipment

2008 Impreza WRX STI

At a glance, performance enthusiasts are quick to notice the close resemblance of the 2008 Impreza WRX STI to the 2007 Subaru World Rally Championship car. The combination of its all-new hatchback design and intercooled, turbocharged 2.0-liter 300-horsepower flat-four engine has the power to turn heads and raise adrenaline at every turn.

Specifications >
Upcoming rally events >

STI - ON SALE NOW!!

2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

It Will Make You a Believer

By Peter Lyon

First Impressions:
A better-handling package with sophisticated electronics makes the most out of 304 hp.

Featured Specs

When the first Japan-spec Subaru STI hit the scene back in 1994, it was all about all-wheel drive, rally heritage and dirt under the tires. Now we're in the Japanese-spec 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, there's fresh pavement under the high-performance tires and the end of the straightaway at this road-racing track is a distant speck in the windshield.

And between here and there we have 304 horsepower and 8,000 rpm to play with.

This is an all-new STI, and we don't mean just its provocative hatchback shape. There's still rally-style hardware built in, but this STI is being shown to us at Fuji International Speedway, Japan's newly refurbished Formula 1 track.

The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is an all-new deal.

Welcome Back, Surface Excitement
After months of squabbling by Subie fanatics about the look of the new Impreza WRX, the STI should finally shut everybody up.

With new five-door hatchback packaging and nondescript styling, the Impreza targets a whole new customer base — drivers more interested in 4WD safety and interior roominess than rallying heritage. But you'd never believe the STI is essentially the same car.

Subaru designers have penned a hatchback that looks like it's on steroids. It's not beautiful, but it does have generous servings of visual drama, and, well, that's really what this car is all about. Pure kinetic drama. The well-defined edges look menacing, although we can't help feeling that Subaru's designers could have extended themselves more to improve the generic grille and headlights.

Boasting specially designed body panels (including a front spoiler and chunky blistered fenders), a roof-mounted spoiler and a rear underbody aero diffuser, the STI is more muscular and edgy than the WRX. In fact, it is a completely different car. The only body panels it shares with the WRX are the hood, front doors, roof and rear liftgate.

Seeking Balance
As it turns out, the STI's hatchback configuration has been no accident. We know because Petter Solberg , 2003 WRC driving champion and Subaru factory driver, tells us.

"I had something to do with Subaru settling on a hatchback design for the new Impreza," the Norwegian rally ace blurts out. Then he laughs, "Don't tell Subaru, but I drive lots of different cars, and my experience tells me that hatchbacks have the best aero balance and handling performance at the limit. Because it's all about balance, you see. And a wider track and shorter overhangs complete the package."

Compared to the previous-generation WRX STI, the new car's front overhang has shrunk by 3.1 inches, while the rear overhang has dropped by 4.7 inches. The wheelbase has been stretched stretched by 3.3 inches. And compared to the new WRX, the STI gains three-quarters of an inch in the front track and seven-eighths of an inch on the rear track. It all adds up to the balance Solberg is talking about.

Hiroshi Mori, Subaru's project general manager for the STI, says, "The main difference between the WRX and the STI is the wider track. For the front suspension the lower arm has changed from steel to aluminum to make it lighter for better handling. Also we switched to inverted dampers for a more rigid suspension layout."

Nailed to Your Seat
The STI's turbocharged 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder is the first Subaru engine to break the unofficial 300-hp limit that has been observed by Japanese car manufacturers since 1989. With 304 hp available at 6,400 rpm and 311 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, this engine is more powerful than we expected a year ago.

The major modifications over its predecessor are the addition of a twin-scroll turbocharger, a bigger intercooler and the variable valve timing now on both inlet and exhaust sides. There are minor changes to the block for improved strength and cooling.

This boxer unit is a superb piece of hardware, producing prodigious pace much lower in the rev range than the outgoing model. At low rpm, power delivery is smooth if not restrained, but once the tachometer needle passes through 2,800 rpm, a mighty punch of torque lunges forth, nailing you to the back of your seat.

Keep your foot buried and that torrent of torque begins to taper off as you shoot through 4,500 rpm, but there's still plenty on tap to maintain progress all the way up to the 8,000 redline. At the same time, a throatier engine note fills the cabin with a retuned but characteristic flat-4 burble thanks to Subaru's redesigned dual equal-length exhaust system.

For Speed, Stir This
Matched to the engine is a more refined six-speed manual gearbox. Boasting newly fitted triple-cone synchros for 1st gear and double-cone synchros for the rest, the gearbox is most notable for slipperier sleeves in the gates. The new gearbox feels notchier than before, but the positive gear engagement makes the shift action seem more precise.

Subaru tells us the 3,263-pound 2.0-liter STI will reach 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. This is just as quick as the current Japan-spec STI Spec C — not bad considering the new STI is 23 pounds heavier and the engine delivers both better fuel economy and cleaner air emissions.

In the U.S., however, we will get a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine with a single-scroll turbo. We hear that its peak power will be similar to the Japanese 2.0-liter at around 300 hp, while more torque in the midrange should produce a more linear and progressive throttle response. The U.S.-spec model is expected to sprint to 60 mph in the low 5s.

Hiroshi Mori says, "In the Japanese market, people love the rev-happy type engine, so we have the 2.0-liter. Also it is the WRC homologation. For the export model, low-end torque is the priority, so there is the 2.5-liter."

Techno Tour de Force
Behind the gearbox is Subaru's DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential), which now gets three automatic modes controlled by a switch on the center console.

Automatic is the standard setting, with 59 percent of engine power sent to the rear wheels and the rear differential set neutrally. Auto-plus tightens the rear diff for more traction in slippery conditions. Auto-minus loosens the rear diff for navigating challenging, twisty roads where you need sharper turn-in and less traction at the rear.

The manual mode is still there, with six settings allowing the torque going to the rear wheels to be varied between 50 and 59 percent. The helical front differential helps the front tires carve through the corners, while the Torsen rear differential adapts to conditions.

Borrowed from the Legacy , the other big news is called SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive). This system alters the engine and throttle mapping to three settings: basically Icy, Sport and Sport Sharp. It tailors the action of the throttle-by-wire system and the turbo boost to driving conditions, offering better traction when you need it and more aggressive torque when you want it.

Also inherited from the current Legacy is VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), Subaru's own stability control. It can be switched off in two stages. The first stops the engine intervention and relies solely on the brakes, allowing some sideways action. Switch it off completely and you let the STI strut its stuff without electronic interference.

Strutting for Wishbones
Focus on these high-tech gizmos and you can easily forget one other critical aspect of the new STI that contributes to both razor-sharp handling and improved ride quality. The switch from rear strut-type independent suspension to double wishbones helps deliver better camber control of the rear tires, while the inverted Kayaba dampers also improve wheel location.

The more you play around with the traction control systems and engine mapping, the more you will appreciate what Subaru has done with the car's handling. It's simply superb. Turn in and the STI stays flatter in the corners with less body roll than ever before, as all four 245/40R18 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires work hard to retain maximum grip. Chief engineer Mori reminds us that new double wishbones up the back suppress roll when compared to the ousted struts.

After a few hot laps around Fuji, we know exactly what he means. The car corners sharper, understeers less at the limit, and feels more planted going into and coming out of corners.

Jump on the skids and there's plenty of stopping power at hand as the brakes offer loads of feel and progression and show little fade under heavy use. Though the calipers wear STI badging, Brembo provides the braking, with four-piston calipers up front, two-pots at the rear. The brake lines are reinforced for firmer pedal feel and the brake booster has been more firmly located in place for the same reason.

A Good Place To Be a Driver
Recaro seats are an option for the STI 2.0, but until they can be adapted to airbag sensors, they will be only for Japan. Fortunately the driving position is great thanks to a new power-operated tilt and telescoping steering wheel. Taking the 2.0-liter STI toward the prestige part of the market is a selection of premium features, including a starter button, keyless entry and a hard-drive-based satellite navigation system.

At the end of the day, the new 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 2.0 is a brilliant piece of kit. This STI is a direct descendant of the STI bloodline. It's still blindingly quick and has the footwork to match, but now it's less raw around the edges and has some more road manners.

When secrets started leaking out about the new STI and the Evo X a year ago, public opinion was swayed by the Mitsubishi's sharp styling, new dual-clutch automated manual transmission and upgraded all-wheel drive. But now that we've driven both cars, we can safely say that the perceived gap between the two doesn't exist, as both cars offer superior levels of handling and performance. The levels of technology in both are outstanding and the driving experience is second to none.

And there should be more to come for the STI. Project Engineer Hiroshi Mori tells us that while his team is looking into a dual-clutch gearbox, Subaru is not happy that such systems still do not deliver a rewarding experience. We think you can expect to see Subaru's own interpretation of a dual-clutch gearbox in late 2009 when the Impreza comes in for its two-year face-lift.

2008 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX

Ok, I have to admit that I nearly fell for this one when I landed on Subaru’s STI page as my first thought was, “God, I stumbled upon the WRX STi”. Seconds later, I noticed the “Sport Parts for Impreza” on the top-left hand of the page and well, my “surprise” expression gave its place to a bitter smile and some inner awkwardness… I guess everyone’s entitled to a mistake here and then.

Anyway, back to reality, STI Performances’ Sport Parts for the 2008 Impreza models include a front spoiler, a skirt lip, 18-inch 12-spoke alloys; various gear knobs, a timer belt, a short-shift kit for the gearbox and a few other goodies. Not much but I’m sure STI will come up with heaps of stuff over the next few months.

WRX: A partial history by model year
Impreza is made by Fuji (Subaru) in Ota, Japan

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Impreza is made by Fuji (Subaru) in Ota, Japan.

2008 STI orders now accepted. If you're serious about getting one go to your local dealer and tell them you want to pre-order one. If you pre-order one you can be the first in your town to get one as it comes right off the truck!

SPECS:

ON SALE: NOW!! Pre-order at your local dealership.

BASE PRICE: $35,640

DRIVETRAIN: 2.5-liter, 305-hp, 290-lb-ft turbocharged H4; awd, six-speed manual

CURB WEIGHT: 3395 lb

0-60 MPH: 4.9 sec (mfr)

FUEL ECONOMY (EPA): 19 mpg

October 8, 2007 - Colors updated, Car expected early 2008
September 20, 2007 - STI model codes announced
September 6, 2007 - Optional roof rails are iIntended for on demand use due to wind noise.
August 2007 - 2008 WRX models arrive August 2007. STIs December?
July 17, 2007 - 2008 prices posted (except STI)
July 14, 2007 - new 2008 WRX video

CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO WATCH THE VIDEO!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpMyUI78w8g&feature=related

In 2008, the Impreza line is re-designed and all new. Based on a Legacy platform, made in Japan. WRX TR model is replaced by the WRX, the WRX is replaced by the Premium, and the Premium with Sirius Satellite Radio/Navigation is a new model. Longer wheelbase with more seating room, all new body and dashboard. New and standard on all models: front, side, and new front and rear side curtain airbags, VDC (electronic stability control), keyless entry with laser cut Immobilizer key and ignition disabling alarm, telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, fold down rear seats now on sedan (and wagon of course). Optional Navigation and Sirius Satellite Audio system. New optional Sport Grill, body colored. No leather or sunroof is available. All 2008 models have Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

STI prices and specs announced 11/15/07

All info subject to change, correction. More to come. Comments welcomed.

November 6, 2006 SOA is sold out of 2007 STI Limiteds, all remaining cars are now at dealers.
Updated August 21 with 2007 prices and features. Cars expected in August. A few new colors. STI Limited is the same price as the STI! Price drop $300 on 2.5is. Other prices remain the same. 2.5i gets storage box instead of ashtray, new gray interior trim, Outback Sport SE gets iPod auxiliary plug instead of ashtray, MP3, Sirius radio (3 month free, after that a subscription is required), climate control, 240 watt CD changer, subwoofer/amp. WRX, STI get 120 watt CD changer, MP3, auxiliary input plug, Sirius radio pre-wired, leather wrapped steering wheel.

2007 STI Limited model, 800 to be produced, individually numbered, Satin White or Urban Gray, with painted silver 17" alloys (not BBS like on STI). A small rear trunk lip spoiler and no roof vane spoiler, black painted brake calipers w/ white lettering. Other upgrades are leather heated seats, sunroof, fog lights, iPod plug, fog lights, upgraded carpeting, sound installation, darker metallic trim, auto dimming mirror/compass. STI gold or silver wheels are now color specific, New front end on all models. All models now have dual stage front airbags, new taillights, outside temperature gauge, air filtration, front seatback net, and front and side airbags. Models grow 2" to 175.8 from 173.8. WRX is available in 2 new models for a total of 3 models. New for 2005 is a base WRX TR (Tuner Ready) sedan and a WRX Limited sedan and wagon (replaces the previous Premium sedan), in addition to the standard WRX sedan and wagon. The WRX with automatic transmission is available in Limited only.

All WRXs get new larger 2.5L engine with 230hp and Active Valves, 17" 7spoke alloys, engine immobilizer key, 4 piston front, 2 piston rear brakes with red painted calipers, Body colored side ground effects, leather steering wheel... New for 2006 WRX Limited package finally available on sedan and wagon, includes leather (a first on the WRX), sunroof, all weather package and more.
STi renamed STI (capital I) and gets new day-time running lights (DRL), lower profile hood scoop, steering wheel sensor added to improve the DCCDs response in cornering, roof-vane spoiler.
RS sedan and wagon models renamed 2.5i (like the Legacy/Outbacks) and the 2.5L horsepower is increased to 173 (from 165hp) with the addition of i-active valves.
Impreza 2.5i sedan and wagon now have 16" alloys, air filtration and either gray or beige interior.
Outback Sport continues with an optional Special Edition SE discount package with leather steering wheel and shift knob, 260 watt CD changer with subwoofer and 6 speakers, armrest, auto dimming mirror/compass and rear spoiler.

2005 - Price increase announced on cars delivered to dealers starting 9/04.
2005 models available 5/04. WRX gets new design gray 16" alloy wheels, new automatic climate control with air filtration, smoked headlight lens, new door panel armrests with power mirror controls, body colored lower trim replaces black, upgraded speakers, silver face 6 CD changer, re-designed keyless remote fob, new center console with 2 cupholders, new colors.
STi gets Helical Front differential, .5" wider rear wheels, rear wheel well arch fender flares, Yaw sensors, AM/FM/CD changer, Immobilizer key, new remote entry fob, new automatic climate control knobs, new door armrests with power mirror controls, new center console with 2 cupholders.

2004 The 04 WRX available 5/03, with minor re-design. New optional Premium Sedan Package with new for USA Impreza All Weather Package, Sunroof and spoiler. The WRX STi model available in June/July. Other WRX changes include projector beam fog lights, re-designed one-piece front seats, collapsible pedals, larger hood scoop, center tachometer, new head, tail and fog lights, new gray color vents and stereo, a few new colors.

2003 The 03 WRX gets illuminated ignition key ring. New Sonic Yellow color available in sedan and wagon, sedan only available with the rear spoiler. App 1,500 yellow WRXs will be made. New optional 17" WRX wheels from Subaru, other performance items. (03 price increase $200)

2002 Introduced March 2001, 1st US/Canada WRX

2000 P1 by ProDrive in UK, 276 hp

1999 RB-5 model in UK, to celebrate Impreza driver Richard Burns winning record

1998 22-B STi model UK only, only 400 made

1994 1st European model 208 hp; Sti model, 247 hp; Type RA Sti, 271 hp

1992 1st year. Japan model with 237 hp

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Comparison Test: Ford Mustang Shelby GT vs. 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI