Subaru WRX STI was a series of sports sedans launched between 1992 to 2021. It was a Front-wheel layout and front-engine vehicle. In the first-generation, the 1994 model was among the best vehicles. The vehicle was manufactured for rally racing and found immense success. It was a performance package manufactured by STI. Let us see everything about the iconic 1994 Subaru WRX STI.
Engine
This model’s engine was based on Subaru Impreza. WRX STI was built around turbocharged flat-4 engines which was based on EJ20G engine code. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler. With the addition of Symmetrical All-wheel Drive, the vehicle’s stability and control were great. With an overall top speed of 155mph, this was an amazing sports car in the 90s.
Incredible Features
Subaru WRX STI found massive success because of its engines and technology. With the addition of Symmetrical AWD and 5-speed manual gearbox, the vehicle’s speed reached an all-time high. The tech features like electronic fuel injection, limited-slip differential, and suspension tuning made it ideal for racing tracks. It was built on a light chassis with lightweight components. The key features were power steering, power windows, bucket seats, manual climate controls, radio, tachometer, and dashboard. The vehicle was a Rally-bred AWD which powered its grip in tracks. Overall, the stability, cornering, and tuning potential were huge for the vehicle.
Designs
As it was a rally vehicle, the Subaru WRX STI didn’t have regular designs like a luxury vehicle. It featured sculpted hood scoop, rear spoiler, sporty bumper, smooth lines, and fog light covers. The Subaru badging was an attraction. There were side skirts and flare wheel arches. This model had paint schemes like Silver, White, Red, and Rally Blue.
Rally Racing
Subaru WRX STI was a special edition and an upgraded model of regular Impreza. This was primarily built to compete in rally races. It featured in the World Rally Championship and other rally events as well. It was driven by legendary driver, Carlos Sainz. The turbocharged engines and AWD paved the way for excellent acceleration and stability. This was the reason for its success in rally races. Another advantage was it was built around lightweight components.
Cultural Impact
After the arrival of WRX STI, Subaru focused on more sedans and performance models. Sedans dominated the japanese market during the 90s. The vehicle’s success in rally events helped the brand in many aspects. It featured in video games, TV shows, magazines, movies, and YouTube videos. Popular video games like NFS and Gran Turismo featured this model. It was loved by youngsters and racing enthusiasts.
Rare Vehicle
The Subaru WRX STI was a rare model. Being a rally vehicle, the production was limited. As it was a homologation vehicle, only around 1,300 units were sold in 1994. It was also an expensive vehicle. Though it offered high endurance with luxury features, the Subaru WRX STI was priced around $26,000 USD. Some models were sold at $30,000 USD. Some pieces of the original WRX STI are being sold in collector markets.