1997 Subaru Impreza WRX Type R STi Version (JDM)

Genuine 2-Door Coupé

Road legal - SMD Demonstration Car – 763bhp

A Proper Type R – Engineered Without Compromise

Here at At HJA we are delighted to present this exceptional 1997 Subaru Impreza WRX Type R STi Version — a Southern Motor Developments demonstration vehicle built to an uncompromising standard.

The GC8 Type R is already one of the most sought-after homologation-era Impreza’s ever produced. This example, however, sits in a different league entirely.

Developed to showcase SMD’s high-output EJ expertise, it was engineered not simply to produce numbers, but to deliver durability, drivability and repeatable real-world performance at an extreme level. Despite its 700+ bhp capability and competition pedigree, the car remains fully road-legal and road-registered.

[Competition Proven]

Campaigned at the Historic Brighton Speed Trials, the car ran a 10.4-second quarter mile on road tyres, finishing 2nd in class and 6th overall from 130 competitors — achieved without slicks or drag-strip preparation.

On circuit, it is equally impressive. During testing at Brands Hatch Indy, it recorded a 50-second lap on old slicks using only the 600bhp map. Those who know the circuit will appreciate just how serious that pace is for a fully road-legal car.

[Engine – Freshly Built, Engineered for Headroom]

At its core lies a comprehensively developed 2.5-litre closed-deck EJ engine, which was built approximately 350 miles ago, offering complete confidence in its condition. On premium pump fuel, it produces over 550bhp, while ethanol blends unlock up to a recorded 763bhp and 680lb-ft of torque. Fuel flex Calibration adapts seamlessly to ethanol content, ensuring safe, consistent performance. Engine management via a Link G4X Fury ECU incorporates advanced control strategies including GPS-based traction control.

A direct-port nitrous system is installed but remains unused — testament to the capability of the existing setup.

Internally specified with significant mechanical headroom and supported by a full dry sump lubrication system, this is an engine designed to operate comfortably within its limits — not at the edge of them.

[Sequential Transmission – Precision with Proven Mileage]

The X-Shift six-speed sequential gearbox transforms the driving experience with full flat-shift capability, allowing uninterrupted acceleration and instantaneous shifts.

The gearbox has covered approximately 1,000 miles since new, providing reassurance while still being very fresh in service terms. Supporting drivetrain components have been selected to ensure strength and reliability at this torque level.

Despite its motorsport specification, the car retains full road legality.

[Chassis, Braking & Dynamics]

With power figures of this magnitude, chassis refinement is essential. The suspension and steering package delivers sharp response, stability under acceleration and confidence under braking.

Braking performance matches the car’s output, offering strong, repeatable stopping power with reassuring pedal feel.

The platform feels resolved and composed — not overwhelmed by its capability.

[Exterior & Interior – Purposeful and Authentic]

The 22B wide arch conversion, genuine adjustable rear spoiler and bespoke aero elements give the car unmistakable presence without excess. It presents as a properly developed competition machine rather than an aesthetic exercise.

Inside, the cabin is focused and functional, featuring a welded cage, bucket seat and digital display. Despite its specification, it remains road registered, allowing genuine usability alongside its performance.

Presentation & Support

Extensive custom fabrication throughout the chassis and engine bay has resulted in a clean, organised and professionally executed finish. It presents as a cohesive engineering project — not a collection of aftermarket components.

To provide further reassurance, SMD are willing to offer trackside support at the vehicle’s first outing with its new owner.

It represents a serious, thoughtfully engineered interpretation of the Type R platform — combining motorsport capability, mechanical integrity and road usability in a way that is increasingly difficult to replicate.

[Engine]

EJ25

Super Ductile sleeves

Closed deck insert

6 dowel mains conversion

Fine thread 14mm head studs

Piston oil squirter mod

Carrillo Pro H rods

Mahle Motorsport 99.5mm Box In Box pistons

Mahle Motorsport bearings

Subaru nitrile crank

JUN Auto 272 cams (10.3mm lift)

Supertech valves, springs & retainers

Solid bucket conversion

JUN vernier pulleys

RCM head gaskets

RCM cam belt guide

HKS cam belt

Dailey Engineering dry sump pan and pump kit

SMD inlet manifold

Injector Dynamics 2600cc injectors

SMD/WON direct port nitrous injection

80mm electronic throttle body

SMD equal length fuel lines

Turbosmart fuel pressure regulator

SMD custom equal length exhaust headers

Xona X3CXR9564S turbo

Twin Turbosmart Comp 40mm wastegates

SMD custom 3in exhaust system (centre exit)

13 row front mount oil cooler

SMD custom twin pass intercooler

SMD custom radiator with integrated swirl pot

SMD custom dry sump tank with integrated breather pot

SMD custom intercooler pipework

ITG air filter

Fuelab H/E Series twin screw pump and filters

Fuel cooler

SMD custom 26L fuel cell

Fuel flex sensor

Link G4X Fury engine management

Brise alternator

Dry nitrous system

GPS traction control

[Power Output:]

550bhp on 99RON

763bhp / 680ft-lb on E112

[Transmission]

Xtream twin plate ceramic clutch

X-Shift 6-speed sequential gearbox

V9 STI front diff

KAAZ 1.5 way rear diff

Driveshaft Shop carbon prop shaft

Driveshaft Shop half shafts

Transmission cooler

[Suspension]

TEIN Type Flex coilovers

TEIN EDFC controller

Whiteline 22mm front anti-roll bar

Whiteline 24mm rear anti-roll bar

Whiteline bushes throughout

Whiteline bump steer correction kit

SMD custom front top mounts

Swave & Summit rear lower control arms

PRS quick steer rack (2.2 ratio)

[Brakes]

SMD custom Brembo 6 pot front callipers

370mm floating J-hook vented discs

SMD custom Brembo 4 pot rear callipers

316mm grooved & vented discs

DS2500 pads

SMD custom front brake cooling kit

AP Racing bias valve

Electronic brake servo pump

[Exterior]

22B wide arch kit

Custom S6 front bumper

Genuine 22B adjustable rear spoiler

SMD custom rear bumper with integrated diffuser

SMD custom front bumper and diffuser

[Wheels & Tyres]

9x18” Rotor G Force E27

245/40R18 Toyo R888R

[Interior]

8 point weld in roll cage

Corbeau bucket seat

Corbeau 3in 6 point harness

OMP deep dish steering wheel

Carbon fibre foot plates

Dash mounted brake bias valve

NOS isolation valve

AEM/Link dash display with custom MAKO dash insert

DCCD control