The owner and the car
Downhill mountain biking helped spark Dave Mann’s rally interest. His 1998 Impreza 2.5RS began with a failed engine.
How it started
A Version 7 STI engine and Spec C six-speed put it back on the road in summer 2007. Dave and friends handled most of the work.
What went into it
TractionLife’s original 2011 feature reports 470 bhp at 1.4 bar on 94-octane fuel, not wheel horsepower. The specification includes a GT3582R turbo, Autronic SM4 management, Racecomp Tarmac II suspension and STI brakes. A CARS-spec cage and Sparco seat support its time-attack direction.
The work behind it
The custom diffuser required cutting the trunk and bumper. Tuning and cage fabrication went to specialists.
Where it stands
These details describe the original feature, not a verified current specification. Story: David Pratte. Photography: Amee Reehal / TractionLife.
