Description

Model History

Subaru has made its place in creating a variety of limited and special edition Imprezas. In 2006, using the GDB9 chassis, they produced the limited edition  WRX STI Spec C Type RA-R – consisting of just 300 units in total (50 units in Astral Yellow, 125 units in Pure White, 125 units in WR Rally Blue Mica). Compared to a standard GDB9 WRX STI, these models featured a larger diameter turbo, revised ECU, sports catalytic exhaust with a low back pressure exhaust – producing a total of 320hp at 6,400rpm. The suspension was also lowered by 15mm, and for the first time in a Japanese mass-production car – fitted with 6-piston mono block Brembo brakes (with STi logos). For the exterior, an exclusive STi front lip was installed, along with specifically designed 18” wheels. With additional weight saving made by stripping the interior, the overall weight was 1,390kgs (around 70kgs less than the JDM WRX STi). All of these models were sold exclusively in the Japanese market.

History File

Featured here is a 2006 Subaru WRX STI Spec C Type RA-R, finished in Pure White. It was sourced from Goo.net in Japan before being shipped to Hong Kong, though no auction sheet confirming its condition grades can be provided.  Aside from an aftermarket Panasonic stereo head unit, no other modifications have been done to the exterior, interior, or running gear. It currently has a mileage of 48,751 km. Please note that this car is currently unregistered in Hong Kong.

Exterior

The condition of this RA-R’s exterior has been well looked after throughout its life in Japan and Hong Kong. None of the Pure White paint finish has faded away nor possess any scratches, dents, or imperfections of any sort. Both the front and rear bumpers as well as the side skirts are in excellent condition with no damage on either of them. The RA-R exclusive rear spoiler is fully intact with no wear on its joints or surface. The headlights and tail lights work normally and are free of any damage or cloudy surfaces. The window trim is all present. All of the exterior badges – from the Subaru emblems to the RA-R exclusive badging are also all present with none showing signs of age. The front/rear doors, front hood and rear trunk all open and close without any issues – no corrosion was found on their latches or hinges. All four STI wheels, finished in White do have a small amount of naturally-occurring patina on their surfaces, but they are all free of kerb rash or any severe scratches. Interior and Trim The interior of this WRX STI Spec C Type RA-R is in near perfect condition. Both STI bucket seats are fully intact with no wear on any of their portions. Both side door sills are The door sill plates on all four corners are free from any scuff marks and the STi gauges fit perfectly in the centre of the dashboard and illuminate in green – which match the backlighting of the climate control knobs. The roof scoop can be opened from the inside without difficulty, and does an excellent job at sending direct airflow to the front occupants. The aftermarket Panasonic stereo head unit – while set to Japanese, is fully functional and its touchscreen remains responsive. The steering wheel is free of any significant wear and tear – with the prominent STI badge in the centre well preserved. All of the rubber door trim has been well preserved. The carpeting in the footwells are also well preserved with none possessing any serious wear or stains. The only imperfection to report of would be the air conditioning dials in the lower centre dashboard – they do stick when used and their faces do show some signs of wear. These however, do not affect the operation of the air conditioning in any way – it operates normally across all of its settings.

Engine and Running Gear

Switching on this WRX STI Spec C Type RA-R was an effortless and traditional task, with the full turn of the key. The driver inputs such as the clutch, brakes and accelerator pedal were all perfectly positioned and for any driver experienced with manual transmissions, can drive with ease. The steering was weighted perfectly and matched direct and engaging gear shifts. There was the signature subtle rumble of the 2.0L flat-four EJ207, and the symmetrical all-wheel drive system allowed this WRX STI Spec C Type RA-R to stay planted to the road, regardless of the road conditions. The DDCD switch in the lower centre console , equipped as standard on all R-ARs is fully adjustable to allow the driver to adjust to various differential settings – the water spray feature that cools the intercooler during intense driving. The turbocharger operated flawlessly, providing boost upon spooling up fully. We also had the opportunity to inspect this RA-R underneath via a lift and found the undercarriage to be in excellent condition – with no rust or corrosion to report on any part of the suspension, chassis, or exhaust. With its various engine, brake, and suspension/chassis enhancements, the WRX STI RA-R is yet another limited production model by Subaru that elevates an already capable platform. This is your opportunity to acquire one of 300 ever made – exclusively available at the Car Farm.

Buyer’s Premium:

5% of Winning Bid

(Minimum – HKD8,000.00)

(Maximum – HKD50,000.00)