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The small jobs matter

Classic Impreza build details worth a closer look

A closer look at the engine bays, interior details and practical work that make a classic Impreza worth spending time with.

Engine bay of Dave Mann STI-swapped 1998 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS.
Engine bay of Dave Mann STI-swapped 1998 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS. · Photo: Amee Reehal / TractionLife · Image source

Look past the wheels

A tidy engine bay, repaired trim or carefully fitted bracket can say as much about a build as its paint. Ask the owner why a change was needed and how they made it work.

A real example

The photograph here shows Dave Mann’s 1998 Impreza 2.5RS as featured by TractionLife. His Version 7 STI swap and later turbo setup make a useful starting point for questions about packaging and the work behind a finished bay. Read Dave’s build story.

Show the work

When you share your car, include a full view and a few sharp detail photographs. Explain the job you are proud of, name the people who helped, and separate installed parts from future plans.

These are 2.5RSTI’s editorial notes, illustrated with an identified owner’s car. Photography: Amee Reehal / TractionLife. Tell us about your build.

Read the source

Dave Mann’s 1998 Impreza 2.5RS / TractionLife

Keep the Classics Alive.

More classic Impreza builds, rally stories, and news from 2.5RSTI.

Dave Mann blue 1998 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS driving on a rural road.
Build

Dave Mann’s 1998 Impreza 2.5RS

A failed engine gave Dave the starting point for a classic coupe built around rally inspiration and time behind the wheel.

Blue and yellow number 21 Subaru WRX throwing gravel at Overmountain Rally Tennessee in 2026.
Update

Martell puts Subaru on top at LSPR

Conner Martell and Ross Whittock led Subaru’s season finale in Michigan, with the published result still carrying a provisional notice.

From the 2.5RSTI Shop

Take a little 2.5RSTI with you.

Explore the Shop

Decals and more for the people keeping the classics alive.

Complete Black and Red bundle: five featured decals plus the blue-and-yellow WRC bonus decalOn sale

2.5RSTI Decal Bundle | Black and Red

Six glossy classic-Impreza decals with a black-and-red 2.5RSTI logo and a FREE 1997 WRC rally car decal.

$10.00$15.00
View bundle details
Complete Black and White bundle: five featured decals plus the free Blue Subaru Impreza 22B decalOn sale

2.5RSTI Decal Bundle | Black and White

Six glossy classic-Impreza decals with a black-and-white 2.5RSTI logo and a FREE Blue Subaru Impreza 22B decal.

$10.00$15.00
View bundle details

Got a classic of your own? Share your build.