🏁 2001 Subaru Impreza WRX STI (JDM)

Chassis Code: GDB
Generation: GD chassis (first “New Age” STI)
Nickname: Bugeye STI 👀
Market: Japan Domestic Market only

 

⚙️ Engine & Performance

• Engine: EJ207 Turbocharged Boxer-4
• Displacement: 2.0L DOHC
• Turbo: IHI single turbo
• Power: 280 PS (276 hp) — Japanese gentleman’s agreement rating
• Torque: ~373 Nm / 275 lb-ft
• Redline: ~8,000 rpm
• 0–60 mph: ~5.0 seconds
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD
• Transmission: 6-speed manual (first year STI received it)  

👉 Important:
The US did NOT get an STI until 2004, so every 2001 STI you see in the U.S. is a real JDM import.

 

🔥 What Makes the 2001 STI Special

The 2001 model was a massive leap forward over the GC8 STI.

Major upgrades:

✅ Much stiffer chassis (about 120% more rigidity)
✅ Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD)
✅ Factory Brembo brakes
✅ Forged internals EJ207
✅ Close-ratio 6-speed gearbox
✅ Rally-derived AWD system

This is essentially a road-legal WRC-inspired car.

 

🧠 EJ207 — Why Enthusiasts Love It

The JDM EJ207 is considered one of Subaru’s best engines:

• Stronger internals than USDM EJ205/EJ257
• High revving vs torque-focused US STI motors
• Handles power extremely well when tuned
• Known for reliability when maintained

Many builders consider it the “king of the EJ motors.”

 

🧾 Exterior & Interior Features

Typical factory equipment:

• Grey Work Emotion CR Kai
• Functional hood scoop 
• Large rear wing
• STI bucket seats
• Momo steering wheel
• Intercooler water spray
• Pink STI engine components

 

📊 Basic Specs

• Weight: ~3,150 lbs (1430 kg)
• Wheels: 17x7.5 factory alloys
• Layout: Front engine / AWD sedan
• Body length: 4405 mm