The 1998 Subaru Impreza 22b is legendary, a vehicle born from Subaru’s dominant run in the World Rally Championship (WRC). However, before the production models captivated enthusiasts, there was a prototype, a precursor that offers an even rarer glimpse into the creation of this iconic machine. This article delves into the history and significance of the Subaru 22B prototype, particularly chassis number 000, highlighting why it stands as perhaps the most collectible of all 22Bs.
Subaru’s journey to rally prominence began in the early 1980s. While their initial forays with the Leone model in events like the Safari Rally were not immediately successful, they laid the groundwork for future triumphs. The turning point arrived with the partnership with Prodrive in 1990. This collaboration injected expertise and resources, enabling Subaru to compete seriously on the world stage. Early successes with Colin McRae in the Legacy 4WD hinted at the potential, but it was the introduction of the Impreza Turbo in 1993 that truly marked Subaru’s arrival as a rally powerhouse.
The 1993 New Zealand Rally victory, driven by McRae, was Subaru’s first major international win, paving the way for an era of dominance. The 1994 season saw further WRC victories, setting the stage for Subaru’s ultimate goal: the World Championship title. 1995 was the breakthrough year. Subaru clinched the Manufacturers’ title, a feat they repeated in 1996 and 1997, cementing their place at the top of rally racing. Drivers like Colin McRae, Carlos Sainz, Richard Burns, and Petter Solberg became synonymous with Subaru’s rally success.
The Subaru Impreza 22B STI was conceived as a road-going tribute to the 1997 WRC championship-winning car. The prototype we are focusing on, chassis 000, was displayed at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, generating immense anticipation for the production 22B. Despite a premium price tag, all 400 scheduled production cars sold out within a mere two days, demonstrating the overwhelming demand for this rally-inspired machine. Built to celebrate Subaru’s 40th anniversary and their third consecutive WRC manufacturer’s title, the 22B was not simply an Impreza with bolt-on parts; it was substantially re-engineered.
The 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B boasted a potent 2.2-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, officially rated at 280PS (276bhp). This figure is often considered a conservative number to comply with Japanese regulations. Power was delivered through a strengthened four-wheel-drive system via a ceramic/metal clutch. The chassis and running gear were heavily influenced by Subaru’s WRC experience, featuring Eibach suspension springs, Bilstein dampers, 4-pot brake calipers, and BBS forged alloy wheels. The distinctive widebody styling, with its flared wheel arches, aggressive front air dam, and prominent rear spoiler, was designed by Peter Stevens, the renowned automotive designer who consulted for Prodrive.
The Subaru 22B prototype, chassis 000, represents an even rarer breed. Of the five pre-production prototypes, this particular vehicle is believed to be the very first, bearing chassis number 061819. It was gifted to key figures in Subaru’s rally program, including David Lapworth of Prodrive, the engineer instrumental in developing the championship-winning widebody rally car. This prototype was Subaru’s personal show car, debuting at the 32nd Tokyo Auto Show in 1997 and served as the blueprint for all subsequent 22Bs.
This specific 22B prototype has an incredibly low mileage, recorded at just 70 kilometers (approximately 43.5 miles) at the time of its auction cataloging. Remarkably, it remains unregistered and in pristine, ‘as new’ condition, even retaining its original Pirelli tires. Finished in the signature Sonic Blue Mica with a black and blue interior – the only color combination offered for the 22B – chassis 000 established the aesthetic standard for all production models. Its provenance includes ownership by Subaru of Japan, Prodrive in England, and a long-term private collector in Japan before being offered for sale.
In conclusion, the Subaru 22B is already an exceptionally desirable car. However, the 22B prototype, especially chassis number 000, transcends even that level of collectibility. It is a tangible piece of Subaru’s rallying heritage, a direct link to their WRC successes, and a unique artifact that embodies the genesis of an automotive icon. For collectors and Subaru enthusiasts alike, the 22B prototype represents the ultimate prize, a testament to a golden era of rallying and Japanese performance car engineering.
Specifications:
Engine: 2,212cc Turbocharged Flat 4-Cylinder Engine Electronic Fuel Injection
Horsepower: 276 @ 6000 RPM
Transmission: Six-Speed Manual
Weight: 2711 lbs.
Wheel Specs: Pavement 8″x18″, Gravel 7″x15″, Snow 5.5″x16″
Source: Bonhams | Cars, The Quail Auction, 18 August 2023, LOT 90.
