Help me understand the various STI models over the years

[Atlblkz06]

Hey guys,

I'm trying to learn about the various Impreza STI models that have been out since the 2.5T came out.

I hear so many things "Get the bug, the blob cant be modded to well" etc etc.
I might have to move up north and it sounds like a good excuse to buy a sooby :)

I know the basics but what I'm really looking to understand is modding potential and friendliness.

My initial goal/ideal goal is to build it up to about 400/450 with perfect streetability and 100% stealth.

[alpine_aw11]

I'm pretty sure you could hit 400 easily with any model of Sti. Could be wrong though.

[Atlblkz06]

Other than the looks, are there any fundamental design changes?
From what I know the engine almost always made right around 300hp/300tq and I believe the exhausts are quite restrictive and is a good source of free power.

I don't know of any Subaru forums - if someone could point me in the right direction I'd be grateful!

[DUBSf22c]

I own a 04 the only thing i would do over again GO 05 WITH A 07 TRANNY ;)

[DUBSf22c]

Other than the looks, are there any fundamental design changes?
From what I know the engine almost always made right around 300hp/300tq and I believe the exhausts are quite restrictive and is a good source of free power.

I don't know of any Subaru forums - if someone could point me in the right direction I'd be grateful!

oh god where to start.

GOOD SUBY FORUM :
NASIOC.COM (north american subaru owners club)
wrxatlanta. com (ofcourse local)
iwsti.com (great website. best info possible)


1. interior


02-04 incld sti have the same dash and horrible cup holders
Cheaper shift knob then 05+
Door cards have more material on the 05+
2. Suspension/wheels

04 strong as trannys
04 5x100 lug pattern
04 weak bearings
05+ 5x114.3 lug pattern
05 stronger wheel bearings
The valves and other things have changed to . Like some things that were metal on the 04/05 are plastic on 06/07 in the engine bay.. HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU HAVE?

[Atlblkz06]

Thanks a ton!

I'll start on those forums - thats exactly what I need.

[AirMax95]

Just buy a 2005+ Sti for the better bolt pattern and stronger hubs. The cost diff between the 04-05 is not much. They can be snagged for $18k-$25k depending on mods and mileage. The 06-07 are still upwards $25k easy. Knowing you, I know you dont want a 08 STi due to the hatch. Do your homework and get as much info on the car (if used) as you can.

04-05 = Blob Eye
06-07 = Hawk Eye
08-09 = Hatch

In regards to power, you can hit the 400awhp mark quite easy. Exhaust, FMIC, Tune, larger turbo.......

[okra1981]

400whp would be insane fast, hell 300 in an awd car would be a little scary.

[EJ25RUN]

Nasioc is rarly useful. Anytime i ask a question they expect me to go through hundreds of pages of threads that might be 4-5 years old. Wrx Atlanta is much better. It is the antinasioc.