The story of the Subaru Impreza Spec C
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), a global manufacturer of transportation and aerospace-related products and the maker of Subaru automobiles, announced that it would submit a homologation application to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) for the finely tuned new Subaru Impreza WRX STi Spec C to rally as a Group N vehicle in 2006.
To enter FIA-approved racing and rallying championships that take place around the world, cars must be homologated according to the FIA regulations.
Group N (production cars) is one of the rally and off-road vehicle groups set forth by the FIA.
Defined as large-scale series production touring cars, Group N homologation imposes strict limits on modifications to production models and is known as the category that best reflects the performance inherent to the basic production model.
WRX STi Spec C is very suitable for racing due to its lightened body and high performance engine. Therefore, the application embodies the company’s plan to position this model as a key competitor in motorsport activities for 2005 and beyond.
FHI produced more than 1,000 units of the Impreza WRX STi Spec C during 2005, which is the minimum level of production required for Group N classification, and the company planned to have the vehicle homologated before the 2006 rally season began.
Major Features of the finely tuned new Impreza WRX STi Spec C:
Compared to the Impreza WRX STi, Impreza WRX STi Spec C is about 70 kilograms lighter through the adaptation of lighter glass, a trunk lid composed of aluminium, and thinner roof construction with roof vent.
Reinforcing braces have been added to the front strut tower on the WRX STi Spec C. In addition, the solid bars used to connect the front pillar and upper frame have been replaced by enhanced hollow bars and rigidity of chassis have been improved.
A rear crossbar has been fitted to further improve body rigidity.
2litre flat four turbo, 6 speed transmission with DCCD (driver controlled centre Diff).
The twin scroll turbocharger in the Impreza WRX STi spec C uses precise ball bearings in the shaft to reduce friction, thereby offering a smooth and speedy turbo boost and providing ideal engine response.
Brembo's front and rear.
A large water reservoir for the intercooler water spray as well as an air-cooled engine oil cooler have been implemented to ensure stable engine performance.
