1998 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Version IV

Highlights

• Rare black example with a high Japanese auction grade of 4B
• Comprehensive reconditioning carried out, including suspension, brakes, cambelt and water pump
• 12 Japanese service entries supporting the recorded mileage
• First time offered for sale since import to the UK

The Appeal

The Version IV STi occupies a hallowed place in the Impreza lineage. Produced for the 1998 model year, it represented the culmination of Subaru's Group A rally programme and is widely regarded as one of the most desirable iterations of the GC8 chassis. With its close-ratio five-speed gearbox, driver-focused cockpit and characteristically purposeful stance, the Version IV remains a benchmark for the turbocharged all-wheel-drive sports saloon.

This particular example stands out for several reasons. Finished in black — a rare colour for the Version IV STi — it was sourced directly from Japan and graded 4B, reflecting its condition at the time of import. It has been held by Fairmont Sports and Classics as part of their private collection and has never previously been offered for sale on the open market. Fairmont, a specialist in high-grade JDM Subarus, carried out a thorough programme of reconditioning upon arrival, encompassing new front and rear shock absorbers, Prodrive P1 springs, vented brake discs and pads, top mounts, an RCM cam belt and water pump kit with uprated pulleys, all ancillary belts, a wheel refurbishment and a service.

The car is accompanied by its bookpack, which includes documentation for no fewer than 12 services carried out in Japan, all of which are consistent with the recorded mileage of 36,000 miles. The vendor describes this as a very well-preserved example of the Version IV STi, and prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to view in person to appreciate the standard to which it has been prepared.

History and Paperwork

• Right-hand drive JDM import, registered in the UK on an S-registration plate (1998)
• Imported from Japan by Fairmont Sports and Classics and held as part of their collection
• First time offered for sale since UK import
• Bookpack present, including documentation for 12 Japanese services supporting the recorded mileage
• Odometer displays in kilometres; 36,000 miles indicated
• MOT expired on 13 February 2026

The Condition

• High Japanese auction grade of 4B
• Black paintwork, noted by the vendor as a rare colour for the Version IV STi
• Bodywork appears sound and well-kept
• Alloy wheels refurbished
• Bonnet insulation replaced
• Interior is very nicely presented
• Prospective buyers are encouraged to view in person and study the accompanying photographs

The Mechanics

• 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine
• Five-speed manual gearbox
• Front and rear shock absorbers replaced
• Prodrive P1 front and rear springs fitted
• Front and rear top mounts replaced
• Vented brake discs and pads replaced
• RCM cambelt and water pump replaced with uprated pulleys
• All ancillary belts replaced

BEFORE YOU BUY

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