Mitsubishi Eclipse , from a Fast and Furious race car to an SUV or just Mitsubishi in general they had the mighty EVO but if you look at their 2023 lineup of new cars it IS ALL SUV'S, btw I already subscribed 2years ago
Really got to me when Trav said "it lost a reason to keep on living" made me realize all we lost. This story made these AWD legends feel more like living beings😭
Sadly Subaru died when the evo died… both legends in rally but he was right. Without that sparring partner that competition just like brothers one can’t go on without the other..
@@deathtoming2201 i20 and Ford rs are formidable foes...corolla gr . Subarus full of excuses and they chose to sale out. Love was lost after the Hawkeyes
Man, I couldn't agree more with this. I've been saying for years that if they sold a modern interior older chassis WRX or STI it would absolutely fly off the shelves. I have an 02 wrx, and I plan on preserving it as long as humanly possible. If what we hope doesn't happen, happens, it'll be worth its weight in gold. And I'll never let go of it.
Have an 02, made in 3/01...making 305hp/304tq on 24.5lbs....200k on odom...e85, 2010+ sti turbo bored out to evo 16g wheel and ported/polished. Lil rusty and clearcoat peeling like a mfer....but she's made 155 before....owned it since 174k. Tuned by JR. Brought the 🔥 and moved the graph pretty far left. All in for 6800 total. Best car of my life.
Same could be said about an 01 outback. My cars like gold. I completely redid all the suspention components and it now has a rebuilt engine and a new clutch. Basically a brand new car that'd last forever. That performs perfectly for what I need it for and it has none of the shifty electronics. Wanna know how much it cost me to get this car and rebuild it? Around 4,900 bucks. 900 for the car itself and the rest for the parts and the service. Spend that Iverson the span of 3 years? Or pay 30,000 for a brand new subaru that'd just burst in flames after a while. Lol
Sorry, but it probably wouldnt. This has been tried with agricultural tractors in Europe, selling simple rugged and cheap(but still very capable) models with ca early 2000s tech at more affordable prices than the newest autoguided CVT(CVT is not a dirty word in a tractor btw) equipped, huge hydraulic capacity models, but above a certain power level the market just doesnt want them.
This car is my favorite car. I achieved this childhood dream a year ago and i still can’t believe i have it in my driveway and i can drive it everyday feeling like Im at a rally stage sliding at the roundabout. Wow Thats everything i ever needed. Like this comment to show subaru we want a new STi!!!
@@ianholmquist8492 Hahaha i think a new updated boxer engine on a nimble chassis can be a very cool car. Something light and agile not the pigs we have today. Something to take us back to the good old days.
Just copped mine last may after saving for 3 years. Still unreal but what an amazing machine. Foot of snow? No problem. Muddy field? I think so. Daily driver? Hell yes 👍
Evo owner here. I will always have love and respect for this car. I can hear them going by my house whenever i’m outside and i get chills go matter what. My brother’s the WRX lover and i’m the Evo lover. This rivalry will live one because these are two of the best cars in my opinion
Having owned my WRX for twenty years since I bought it brand new, you better fucking believe that I get hyped whenever I see a real EVO, much respect and miss the innovation that came from all their rivalry. I would gladly own an EVO, as well, if I could afford it after the miracle of actually finding one.
@katous I got really lucky with getting mine. My cousin bought an '08 X GSR fresh off the lot and modded it up. He paid it off, then ended up getting a GTR R35 and left the X in front of my house for years. I'm in the process of buying it off for him for 10k w only 30k miles on it (down payment being the mechanic bill to get her running again). It's probably one of the best deals I'll ever get with any car in my life, let alone an Evo.
Nice video, I miss my 02 bugeye. My freshly licensed 16 year old son feels the need to constantly remind me that I used to own a cool car that should of been his first car.
#1 I understand him and I'm glad he understands too but tell him to stop being so bratty. Tell him hes lucky to even have a car to move around in. That being said, there are cool cars out there still, just have to find em
@@matthemberry i agree. A first car for a 16 year old boy needs to be boring and gutless and slow for many reasons. My first car was a 90 mercury sable, then a subaru legacy wagon, then a honda civic, then a wrx, then an sti. Got to crawl before you can run. The last thing a new driver needs is a car with some balls.
From a guy that works on subaru, owns a 22b, rallies 05 spec c , subaru has lost the plot, cars are not sporty, heavy and slow boring cars living on past hype, if it was rebadged and sold under another brand no one would buy it. Sad days.
At 57 I've had a few cars in my time...built a few cars, trucks, bikes. At 57 in the midst of my various tattoos you'll find a WRX rally logo, the only car logo as of yet, and that's solely due to the fact that in an 02 Bugeye, after many mods and iterations, it was that Bugeye that supplied me with more wins, fun, challenge to my ability as a driver and enthusiasm overall. We all get tattoos for stupid reasons, but this one has reason, it has meaning, a meaning that time cannot erase... ever!
I've seriously destroyed some gravel in the 02....and laid stripes on the pavement too. One of the few capable of BOTH. 02 makin 305hp/304tq and I'd only sell it for an 07 sti with a center diff and tallest gear ratio...and then I'd probably build a 207 motor for it. But the chassis/paint would need to be great to consider it even... Bodywork=$$$$$ and I don't know and can't do that stuff.
Mitsubishi killing the EVO was a bad decision for both them and Subaru. No special, fun cars from Mitsubishi, no competition for Subaru. It made Subaru relax and get lazy with the WRX redesign. While the GR Corolla and Golf R have AWD and 300+hp, they really don't have a reputation in rallying, unlike the Volkswagen Polo, Toyota GR Yaris and Celica GT4 respectively.
This video is awesome. I just recently bought a 2018 wrx sti, and absolutely love it. I am saddened by the direction Subaru is going. Growing up all I knew about Subaru was rally and the wrx and sti. Seems like Subaru has ditched the enthusiast niche.
That's funny considering the new WRX is a much better performance car than last gen. Have you seen the numbers it's pushing? I remember test driving a VA and the tune was really really bad.
@@EvolutionIX219 I’m unsure as to the performance part. I haven’t looked into the new gen all that much or driven it before. I do not like the nanny systems that it comes with, nor the looks of the car in general. In regards to the numbers it’s pushing, whenever a brand new vehicle or model comes out, everyone tunes them to see how much power they can get, but reliability and whether or not they can drive it 2000km before it blows up is another question. Every driver has a different perspective on the way a car drives.
I still have my 1995 Impreza WRX STI Type RA Version ("1") here in New Zealand Such a bare-bones raw car full of character. Simple but really rewarding drive. Got to be good when the designer of the Impreza has one and a 22B. One of 500 proposed. Definitely a keeper !! Miss those old WRX v EVO battles which faded as both brands lost their direction. How awesome it would be if they (and other car manufacturers) managed to get their 90's mojo back.......
That STI RA would be a weapon. A true analog raw driving experience. Y'all Kiwi's are lucky with your lax import legislation. Here in Australia it has always been so regimented.
@@gavinr9107 yeah mate - love it. Picked up from Japan in 2015 for NZD$13k; all original. Only option had been factory A/C. Still had pea-shooter exhaust, CD/cassette and OG wheels (mint). Bought at 123000km; just rolled to 144000km. Kept for dry weather use only; but used !!!!!!!!!!
I'm a Kiwi living in Finland bro, i pick up a bugeye WRX STI here few years ago. Love the car, great in the snow. It's great with the EJ207 engine and 6 speed dccd gearbox.
The manual stick added to AWD is what makes Subaru cars unique - the handling and engagement with the car itself is just as good as you can practically get at that price point - when Subaru went all net zero soft and put in CVT and autos they killed the performance market stone dead - the price of second hand cars know looks to be soaring, I am lucky to have a 6 speed box in my 3.0 Legacy because they are impossible to get now and nobody is taking this off me.
The car is 20lbs heavier, it’s faster then the previous gen wrx…. The gearing makes 0-60 slower but it’s faster overall, rides better, handles better, better put together and more reliable. I came from older Subarus. The cars were trash for what you pay for. The hate is real on a car that is better in every way. Sad to see the sti go, big misstep but if we are doing a wrx comparison, it’s the best one yet.
Maybe the best WRX yet, but VB wrx still falls short to VA STI in every way possible except the useless stats like mpg etc. talking from a driver's car perspective. The STI will always besuperior and subaru really fucked up by not offering a VB sti.
I still daily my 1999 Impreza WRX :) it requires a lot of attention and has high fuel consumption, but it makes me smile every time I drive it. Absolutely love it.
My 2017 drinks fuel if you go into boost. The issue is that it goes into. Boost too easily without a tune. Still saving for access port and all that to do so
I remember my uncle used to own blue and gold livery WRX STi Blobeye and metallic white LanEvo 9 at the same time. Both are crazy cars with their own ways. I did get the chance to drive both cars few weeks after I got my driver's license. Love both cars. But the LanEvo 9 looks won my heart even though the performance of the WRX STi amazes me. Crazy times for sure. And I'll never forget the experience of driving both great rally legends.
Yeah it really sucks, and subaru is terminating the WRX. They already said they want ALL their cars to have eyesight, and they cant seem to make the eyesight work with manual trans, so auto only in a few years. Then theyll phase out the WRX altogether. then NA engine for hightly restricted turbo, then EV only. We are fucked. I will rumble on about with my STI forever. It may even be my sons first car...
I still have my 1999 GC8 WRX that I've owned for the last 23 years in the iconic WRC blue with gold wheels. It's still completely stock standard and probably the best car I've owned. I still get excited driving this car. It's lightweight, nimble, and raw to drive. I love the distinctive boxer rumble from the EJ20 engine. It's a shame that's now missing from the newer FA20 motor. I've had many offers to buy the car, but I have knocked them back. I'll probably keep this car for as long as I live.
I own a 22 VB and this video should have a part II. The tuners are seeing the most power out of this new engine than they’ve ever seen with similarly tuned engines in the past. I get it. The cladding isnt for everyone. But once you get past the cladding the engine has potential. People are already seeing well over 400lbs torque and 400HP. The stock boost is 12. T W E L V E. Once my coil overs are installed and I throw my bronze wheels on my WRB vb I think it will proudly represent. Dont give up folks.
Being a family man with kids, the closest I got to the WRX was the Legacy (called Liberty in Australia) GT Wagon, MY2004. I still own and drive it, almost 250,000 km after 18 years. I recently replaced my front lower control arms, a CV shaft, upgraded to Bilsteins B4. I'll never let it go. My kids are all married now and left the nest. I'm 70 this year but the "degenrate" in me is still there.
What a totally false statement: "Doesn't believe in us enthusiasts anymore".... Huh. I'm looking at my new Subaru WRX, the most powerful, best handling one ever built, and the only $30k, AWD, manual performance car you can still buy. What a load of hyperbolic crap you start out with.
Man this one hit in the feels! Currently have a 2001 Bugeye WRX; and had it for over 6 years. Not the most elegant car but it’s been utterly reliable and so much fun for me!
Much like two dogs that grew up together...became best friends...pushed one another each and every day...when one of the dogs passed away the other wasn't far behind. The WRX & Evolution are the dogs, brothers from another mother. One cannot exist without the other. Wonderful video 👊🏻
that beautiful 2000s wrx is what im working towards. Car manufacturers doesnt think about the enthusiasts anymore and it makes me sad that we have to look at the older cars because they were way more cooler than the junk being released today
I clearly remember back in the day how many hated and trashed upon the style in the 2000's as Neon look a likes. Now they are classics. You'll get used to the new one as well don't worry. :-)
My hot take on the VB generation of WRX is that it is the smart way to keep the enthusiast market happy, while keeping investors happy. In stock form it can be sold to an enthusiast OR the average person. The Enthusiast will push it to it's potential with the new motor, where as the average consumer will find it as a live-able four door sedan with four wheel drive and a little pep. With it currently being one of the few "sports cars" without a crazy dealer markup, it still retains the everyman's sports car status from years ago. Now I do feel that Subaru's development team has taken the edge off since the death of the evo, but as many here said without competition it won't see the same consistent improvement year after year. I am just happy it is still in production with so many others beginning to fall. In terms of the STI being killed off, I think that was a bit overdue. STIs while great are oversaturated IMO, I would have rather seen other trim levels introduced over time as seen with something like the mustang which has the "Boss" or the "Mach-1" nameplate to separate two different yet strong performance editions. I think the US' new GT trim is a bit of a misstep as it doesn't host performance incentive to my knowledge, but having a "GT" that boasted 300hp would have been the right move.
Um what?? All depends what part of the world your in because Subaru was never known for sports cars.. they was the quirky cheaper alternative. In the 90s that’s when they kicked off there “ sports car” by entering rally. Where as Mitsubishi has “sports cars” before Subaru even tho they have been in rally longer than Subaru at that stage in time.
@@eeNPeeCee why would anyone buy legacy, lol. old b4's were fine (on 20x and 6mt), but modern are really weird. like, for what? its not fast and its not Outback. just a cheap car with kinda bad interior. compared to bmw 5 for example. The only modern cool Subaru is Outback. Or wrx, I you into Camry like cars, lol. but its still KINDA cool
Just picked up a 98 V4 STi with 80km on the click as a daily. Bought it for all the reasons that the modern WRX isn't.. a raw JDM car with personality. Can't say iv ever been a big WRX fan, but its a fun car.
Some of the greatest days of my automotive life were at the wheel of my WRX and WRX STI. Both tuned to 500hp, they were so fun to drive, I wish I had kept the STI.
Had an STI. The saddest day of my life was letting her go. And even sadder when Subaru announced there will no longer be an STI. Not in ICE form at least. 😔
I just hope Subaru won't make the same mistakes Mitsubishi did... It pains me what happened to Mitsubishi and at this moment I'm very close to buying 2nd hand 5 year WRX, cause its literally the only car that fits all my needs from everyday utility, to fun and reliability in the worst road conditions. There's no other car like that at the moment.
Great vid, def felt this one 🫡 I have a VB but always dreamt of owning a blobeye STI, I had the chance to try my friend’s and was blown away, learned what character in a car really meant.
Dude the new wrx is actually the best wrx we ever had, I do not understand the hate, its affordable and its a great platform to upgrade, the reason why people do not like it, is cause the back looks like an old civic but seriously the car performs nice, we can't just be happy. It's not selling cause many people had moved to freaking suvs or crossover it has nothing to do with the wrx this generation has switched to suvs.
I actually love my 2022 WRX and I managed to buy it without a cent of dealer mark up. A lot of the issue with making exciting cars is simply that money isn’t there for car makers. People are buying big, soft crossovers in droves.
The WRX single handedly brought many of the legendary JDM cars to our shores. I remember when the WRX came out in 2001 in the US, it was the talk of the automotive press daily for a good year. We were starving for it. Whats not to like....4-doors, AWD, Turbocharged, crazy hood scoop, affordable. After this came the STI, EVO, ISF, then GTR. The WRX showed that the import tuner scene was no fluke and it was an important segment of the market. The WRX had a massive and thriving aftermarket following with companies like Cobb, Perrin, Invidia, Grimmspeed, Subispeed, Rally Sport Direct. These companies were raking in millions.
19 years on still own my 1998 impreza wrx, even on british salt roads, will never die in my eyes, only after I pass. Wonderful iconic and puts a smile on my face every day I drive it as its a daily. great vid by the way. one day they will wake up like toyotas yaris gr4.
Fell in love with Subaru back in high school when I first heard that iconic rumble. Finally got my hands on a brand new 21 STI in my 30's and it's just been smiles per gallon ever since the moment I drove it off the lot. This video definitely hit me in the feels and whatever happens to the wrx's future, it will always be one of my favorite cars of all time!
Excellent! Enjoyed the way this piece was presented! This is just another reason why I have kept my high mileage '05 model for over a decade and will continue to keep it.
Yeah brother! Have had my 05 since November of 2009 and still love it. Was my daily at first, but has been my toy for the past 5 or 6 yrs now. Doubt I'll ever part with it. WRX4EVA!
As someone who grew up driving boring Toyotas and started enjoying cars watching Top Gear a while back and playing GTA, my brand new VB WRX has made me love driving to work and honestly anywhere so that I can say, the excitement is not totally dead.
Disclaimer . Content only relevant to USA 🤷🏿♂️ , late 80's early 90's Subaru's were massive growth years here in Oz , RS EJ20 Turbo available from '89 @5172🇦🇺
i also feel like the WRX lost the plot a little by not being tied to the current impreza. one of the cool things about the WRX is that link back to the plain jane version
I'm with you on this. If we're talking about having "love" in making a car and pretending that such a philosophy exists beyond the ad campaigns, then this separation was / is part of the issue. They made a great car with the Impreza, and then they decided to make it crazy. Separating the trim from the base vehicle really did something. I wish I could put it into words to at least try and make an argument, but it's just a feeling, to me, at this point. That being said, they lost their way because it costs a fortune to continue to develop something like a WRX for so long. Type Rs and Golf Rs (with AWD, an important distinction), and all the others come and go in the U.S. Market. Apart from development, Subaru had to continue to make the base chassis competitive with the competitors in ride quality and size. And I know someone will say, "they didn't even make the interiors that great," and yeah, that's how tough the competition is. And if you really think Subaru can survive on a small chassis making go-fast models of it, spending money to make them fast + quiet + with nice interiors, I have a bridge to sell you. A go fast Subaru might come back if they come out with a proper compact car again, it does well, and then they decide to do a special edition of it. That's how they'll have to do it. Essentially, the Ford (European Ford market) way of special cars.
Saddens me so much I am a huge fan of rally. I live in the mountains with lots of snow so I drive a 2" lifted 2012 wrx STI with bars on the grill, off road lights and skid plates. So fun on the back roads during a snow storm with the all the lights on and drifting.
Subaru was at its peak from 92-2015 since then they have lost their true heritage and haven't bounced back. You need challenges you need a rivalry for without rivalry you won't strive to improve.
All we can hope is that Subaru starts a friendly rivalry Toyota and their GR corolla because we all know Subaru if they get serious and passionate about rally inspired performance cars again they could and can build something better than the GR Corolla
@Ben Morris why would toyota Green Light that subaru has its niche that has been buying cars well why would they go try to appeal to a demographic which doesn't wanna get they cars
Being new to WRX (I have the VB), I enjoyed this video as you took it back in time where it all started. But I can confidently say that the VB is definitely not the slowest one. But I really do enjoy taking my WRX out in the dirt roads.
@@billisdewillis5 originally I wanted the GR Corolla. But they are hard to find available and extremely marked up if one becomes available. But I’m extremely happy with getting the WRX instead. I’ve taken it in the elements on so many occasions.
Not talking smack but I bought a 22 wrx and while it was a pleasant place to be and performed well, I just didn’t care for it. I had a 2016 before it and I miss that car like crazy. Not bashing the new body style, just it didn’t do it for me.
@@Trex6767 the new body style grew on me. I don’t mind it at all anymore. I actually like it now. Though I take it out on dirt roads and snowy mountain passes and is always dirty. I get more compliments when it’s filthy then when it’s clean.
@@mtntrailsubie It’s a good car but the ultimate thing was it wasn’t as driver connected as previous wrx. Like I said before it’s a nice place to be and it’s performance is good, it just didn’t excite me to drive. I’ve owned a blob eye, a 2011, and a 2016. This one just felt too grown up for my taste is all.
Got my 2019 WRX and couldn't be happier. Glad I got one before the icon was neutered. Though, a case could be made that mine is neutered compared to earlier models.
My 2017 STI is still my favorite car I’ve ever owned. It was the accomplishment of a childhood dream and I’m eternally grateful that I had my time with it. However, as with most people I imagine, my life outgrew the STI. I no longer needed a sporty, stiff, loud and savage sedan. I needed a truck. But, when the time comes to have a second vehicle, I’ll go right back to an old WRX, because it will always have my heart.
Technically it’s not slower. The new VB is much more accommodating to the tuner community than the VA, both the FA and the EJ. The new 2.4 in the VB holds power much better than the EJ25 in STI. It’s definitely faster.
@@ianholmquist8492 I’m 50/50 on the platform. The car definitely does feel bit more catered to family friendly crowd. But also at the same time, the move makes sense because the crowder that was into the WRX/STI hype in Hawkeye, bugeye, and blobeye are now grown up and have families. But at the same time I can see how even STILL….. the child in us wants to sporty, rip it up in the gravel kind of a car. Regardless, the platform hasn’t hurt the tuning community.
Last summer, i sold my 2019 wrx for a outback wilderness. Just because of the new soft , slow and way to heavy new version . Since 1995 it was my favorite car ......but i lost faith,,,, im sooo sad 😪😪😪 Bring the wrx back ....
VB is the best wrx ever made that isn't a limited edition (22b, s209). I wish they had made an sti trim with 340 crank hp (10lbs/hp) because the new chassis could take it without sweating. 240 at the wheels is fine for a rallisport car thougjh.
Changing the exhaust manifold thus changing the sound took the old cars charm away. That burble when the engine is warm was the best. As good as the twin turbo Legacy GT-B - as it was basically the same flat four. Good times in the late 90's and early 00's over here in NZ with the JDM imports! And we had them all!
In the late 1990's / early 2000's, I was dreaming of having a Subaru WRX / STI as my daily driver. That car was so far ahead at that time... the turbo burbles can be heard of one car going past, just epic machine. Then they changed course back to family car and toned down the noise, CVT transmissions, etc ... lost me as a customer. Now I have a Mk7 Golf R, and it's similar to what I wanted my Subaru to be.
I have an 04 STI. Saw a rally blue with gold wheels come into work one day when I was 16 and knew at that moment I wanted one of these beasts. I love these cars to death regardless of what reputation they may get. If I ever sell it the only reason would be to own a newer one. I love you and your sporty practicality subaru:)
All those whining about Subaru "Leaving the Enthusiast", getting soft, slow etc. According the Car & Driver, the new BASE WRX is 3.9 seconds faster than the beloved 2015 model around VIR as per the lightning lap results. It's also faster than the BRX, pretty much a match for the 2018 performance pack WRX , a couple seconds faster than the '08 STI, and about a second behind the 2015 STI. Again, all this with the base model.
I’d disagree. I say this new model is more enthusiast focused, bigger motor, more reliable, more potential. Last couple generations were too street focused, there’s a reason it’s softer and taller.
Nothing scream enthusiast like spending 5k just to make it not a ugly fat version of it former self. I own a 2021 I wish it had the 2022 motor tbh but certain top trims only being in a cvt and it just looking like it fucked a fat crosstrek just kills it for me
We’re a family of Subaru tragic’s,currently own 4, including a 1999 WRX. Love to see them come out with something special to compete with the GR Yaris Rally.
That’s what you want the older 90s early 00s models are best but legacys well liberty’s here in Aus are underrated goes just as hard on the inside but ok the outside it’s proper grandpa spec 😉
Have you been living under a rock? In Subaru fashion. They did not disclose all the excellent upgrades to the FA24. They just said modesty. Here's a better WRX. The claimed HP to the crank is actually only a little less to the wheels. So they pulled a VW move there. That's why I can beat stock STI's with my VB out the box. Also, electronic wastgate, higher pressure fuel, beefy con rods- Beehive valve springs and internals are making this VB hold record numbers with just bolt on's VB'S are making 400+hp 460+ ft-lbs on E85 blends with just a j pipe tubo back, TMIC or FMIC,intake and and that's it. 300+ close to 400ft.lbs is common with pro tune and just an intake on 93 or E30. The Trans is fine and clutch is good. The high numbers require a stage 3 clutch. So my point is it's not dead. This is the best WRX to date. Yes, no STI Trans is disappointing. But for the money, it sh!ts on a factory STI. Do your research, bud.
All the VB guys think they are fast now. Even a stock sti is slow but still faster than the VB. Stock for stock, the 21 sti and 22 wrx weigh the same. But the sti has 40 more hp, and 30 more lb ft of torque and shorter gearing. If you can beat an sti, it's because whoever is behind the wheel of the sti can't drive.
Dude, they make more to the wheels then a STI and have better gearing stock then any STI. Subaru sand bagged the numbers. It's been proven time and time again bro. You could never make this power with bolt on's with EJ. It's not the driver. It's the factual data. The only thing better on a VA STI is the non splitcase Trans and brakes, which are overrated Brembo's.
You think it's a freak thing I've beat 2 STI's and a stage 2 WRX. Not to mention a couple of 6th gen Mustangs from light to light. That was bad driving, though. Blew the tires.
I will probably keep mine forever too. I cant see it being possible to buy a 2L turbo 4cyl car in the next 5 years. they will all literally be gone. I will still rumble on about while everyone is at the charging station lines.
The Impreza WRX, it was love at first sight in a magazine back in the late '90s, and I still dream of it to this day. I have had driven one of the '97 model and it was exhilarating.
Couldn’t agree more…. At 44 I just ordered a Dads WRX (Outback XT) here in Australia…. They won 10 in a row… powering through the forests in the Nations capital where I live. They need to new Motorsport partnership to get their mojo back
They really captured lightning in a bottle with the GC8. Since then it’s been an uphill battle to retain what made the car so great while fighting stricter and stricter safety, emission, comfort, etc standards to make the car marketable. We have all witnessed the Impreza slowly drift away from what it really was. It’s only a matter of time before the WRX becomes a thing of the past.
Around 2007 the CEO of Subaru Australia stated Subaru wanted to change the image of its vehicles. they were considered to "racy" and wanted to target a more conservative market. So they re-marketed and redesigned the car, basically made it into a all wheel drive boring corolla. That was the end of it.
I absolutely love my 2016 sti. It has just enough performance, size, utility, and fun for me. When I had two kids and needed something that had room and got decent mileage this was really the only good option. Plus it's retained value better than any car I've owned. And the kiddos love getting dropped off at school in it cause the other kids like the "racecar" that brings them.
I bought my Impreza in 2004 and had her until 2020. There were no Imprezas around but I got my hands on a WRX. I’m in love with my Grey Bear. I got my dream car before I turned 60. The boys check her out and drool 🤤
I’ve owned my 03 wrx wagon for 10 years and a 22 wrx for about a month now and I can say for a fact these new VBs share the same spirit so not all is lost
I have a 19' impreza hatch. I know it's doesn't have the heritage as much as the wrx or sti. But I love it. It's not the fastest and doesn't have to be. The car can handle nearly anything.
Great video. I debated buying a final year STi. Ultimately, I bought a new 22. Keeping the miles low and the wax thick bc one day they might all be gone.
I was a fox body mustang fan; but can't be bothered anymore with mods and babying the car- I love my 2019 WRX; but left asking...what do I get to own next? I plan to cling to this car as long as possible; I doubt any new car will beat it (for what I want and need)
This makes me sick. All the people in here who didn’t buy an STI when they were amazing are crying about them being gone 😂 Go drive a 2018-2021 STI and buy one before it’s too late. I have owned every generation of STI. Ignore the people who bag on the new ones. In reality they’re better safer cars and even with the extra 800lbs they outhandle a gc8 if you know how to drive. This is because they made the VA STI 40% stiffer than the 2014 STI was. The interior took a big step up also. But the biggest thing about these cars is: ignore other peoples negative opinions. Just go drive one. That’s all it takes. I am still a V8 guy too, but man, there is magic in a 2015-2021 STI. Get one before it’s too late. Also, Subaru deserves applause for staying as true to the STI dinosaur for as long as they did. I love them for it forever. They can go ahead and take the 2022 wrx out back and shoot it now, because it’s embarrassing us. P.S. don’t fear the Lord’s engine. EJ 257’s just need tender love and care and you can pound them for 200k+ Here’s the key: change the oil every 2500 miles, check the oil before hooning, get rid of the stock oil pan and pickup if you want more power, if you want above 500 whp the recipe is simple and been reliable for 15+ years: close decking+align hone+bigger head studs/case bolts+forged pistons. And use e85 just for the knock prevention let alone the power. And don’t use paper oil filters like the blue subaru one. And don’t lug any turbo engine or get into boost with 40 degree oil. And from a tuner to all platforms: stop focusing on a power number and doubling car’s horsepower ratings with factory cooling/oiling- this is why we can’t have nice things. Bottom line is to anyone who’s fantasized even one time about hammering on an STI: shut your mouth, drop your excuses and ignore loud idiots and just go drive one. Thank me later. I speak specifically of any legit STI ever made. Not a clone, those are trash. Even if done perfectly they are missing all of the extra factory sti chassis stiffening. They have lots of extra pinch welds and chassis stiffening that base wrx’s don’t. I promise you that there is a marked difference in driving a real sti and driving a pallet swapped wrx from kyle.
As a lifelong STI enthusiast, owner, and collector - thank you. This video needed to be made. Subaru had what is statistically the most loyal ownership group of ANY performance car made in the last 30 years. Profit obsessed big wigs and bean counters cheated hundreds of thousands of people - At least Mitsubishi couldn’t afford to make another Evo. Subaru just doesn’t care.
I still don't like the styling of the new WRX, but I really can't deny the potential of the engine. I understand why they didn't make an STi (emissions), but I'm not sure why they couldn't just keep the engine the same as on the base trim WRX and just include the typical LSDs & DCCD.
👉 What car should we do an Ideal Car Story on next?
*And thank you for all the support! If you arent subscribed.. hit it! **bit.ly/IdealCarsTH-cam*
Mitsubishi Eclipse , from a Fast and Furious race car to an SUV or just Mitsubishi in general they had the mighty EVO but if you look at their 2023 lineup of new cars it IS ALL SUV'S, btw I already subscribed 2years ago
Come on bro Failure is a bit much
@@Elika526 Evo4-5-6-6.5 are amazing and much better than the Impreza, i am saying that but i love my Subaru B4 RSK.
@@Elika526I try to forget about the suv
@@UNO279 me too 🤦🤦🤦
Really got to me when Trav said "it lost a reason to keep on living" made me realize all we lost. This story made these AWD legends feel more like living beings😭
Sadly Subaru died when the evo died… both legends in rally but he was right. Without that sparring partner that competition just like brothers one can’t go on without the other..
Yeah, I wasn’t ready for that bit about the Evo dying. Hit me in the feels pretty hard.
@@deathtoming2201 i20 and Ford rs are formidable foes...corolla gr .
Subarus full of excuses and they chose to sale out.
Love was lost after the Hawkeyes
They did so good Mitsubishi gave up
@@deathtoming2201 Maybe the new GR Corolla will bring the passion to compete, back to Subaru.
Man, I couldn't agree more with this. I've been saying for years that if they sold a modern interior older chassis WRX or STI it would absolutely fly off the shelves. I have an 02 wrx, and I plan on preserving it as long as humanly possible. If what we hope doesn't happen, happens, it'll be worth its weight in gold. And I'll never let go of it.
That could be said for a lot of cars.
Have an 02, made in 3/01...making 305hp/304tq on 24.5lbs....200k on odom...e85, 2010+ sti turbo bored out to evo 16g wheel and ported/polished. Lil rusty and clearcoat peeling like a mfer....but she's made 155 before....owned it since 174k. Tuned by JR. Brought the 🔥 and moved the graph pretty far left. All in for 6800 total. Best car of my life.
They would be over priced or bought by clippers until they are
Same could be said about an 01 outback.
My cars like gold. I completely redid all the suspention components and it now has a rebuilt engine and a new clutch.
Basically a brand new car that'd last forever.
That performs perfectly for what I need it for and it has none of the shifty electronics.
Wanna know how much it cost me to get this car and rebuild it?
Around 4,900 bucks. 900 for the car itself and the rest for the parts and the service.
Spend that Iverson the span of 3 years?
Or pay 30,000 for a brand new subaru that'd just burst in flames after a while. Lol
Sorry, but it probably wouldnt. This has been tried with agricultural tractors in Europe, selling simple rugged and cheap(but still very capable) models with ca early 2000s tech at more affordable prices than the newest autoguided CVT(CVT is not a dirty word in a tractor btw) equipped, huge hydraulic capacity models, but above a certain power level the market just doesnt want them.
This car is my favorite car. I achieved this childhood dream a year ago and i still can’t believe i have it in my driveway and i can drive it everyday feeling like Im at a rally stage sliding at the roundabout. Wow Thats everything i ever needed.
Like this comment to show subaru we want a new STi!!!
We don't want a new sti. The 21 sti is perfect. Subaru can go straight to hell now for all i care
@@ianholmquist8492
Hahaha i think a new updated boxer engine on a nimble chassis can be a very cool car. Something light and agile not the pigs we have today. Something to take us back to the good old days.
@Rom Hovav i hear ya. But since lighter cars can no longer happen due to safety regs, the 21 sti is the best option. For me at least
Just copped mine last may after saving for 3 years. Still unreal but what an amazing machine. Foot of snow? No problem. Muddy field? I think so. Daily driver? Hell yes 👍
I own a 02 Impreza wrx and it’s awesome! I love to drive it. A well maintained ej205 motor is great!
Evo owner here. I will always have love and respect for this car. I can hear them going by my house whenever i’m outside and i get chills go matter what. My brother’s the WRX lover and i’m the Evo lover. This rivalry will live one because these are two of the best cars in my opinion
Having owned my WRX for twenty years since I bought it brand new, you better fucking believe that I get hyped whenever I see a real EVO, much respect and miss the innovation that came from all their rivalry. I would gladly own an EVO, as well, if I could afford it after the miracle of actually finding one.
@katous I got really lucky with getting mine. My cousin bought an '08 X GSR fresh off the lot and modded it up. He paid it off, then ended up getting a GTR R35 and left the X in front of my house for years. I'm in the process of buying it off for him for 10k w only 30k miles on it (down payment being the mechanic bill to get her running again). It's probably one of the best deals I'll ever get with any car in my life, let alone an Evo.
I’m a big fan of both.
Very sad Mitsubishi and Subaru couldn’t get sufficient commercial success to keep these two lines going.
i drive a 2018 STI and whenever i see the RARE evo driver, i always wave and they wave back too. they have become sooo rare lately.
@@reallifeengineer7214 I been saying the same thing about the awd turbo celica line for over 20 years
Nice video, I miss my 02 bugeye. My freshly licensed 16 year old son feels the need to constantly remind me that I used to own a cool car that should of been his first car.
its not my business but....i can feel your son's pain.
i dont want to know the mental punish you get from him. :(
#1 I understand him and I'm glad he understands too but tell him to stop being so bratty. Tell him hes lucky to even have a car to move around in. That being said, there are cool cars out there still, just have to find em
Wrx is a horrible first car. Get him a Honda or something that gets good milage and has less potential to get him in trouble or hurt.
haha good kid!
@@matthemberry i agree. A first car for a 16 year old boy needs to be boring and gutless and slow for many reasons. My first car was a 90 mercury sable, then a subaru legacy wagon, then a honda civic, then a wrx, then an sti. Got to crawl before you can run. The last thing a new driver needs is a car with some balls.
From a guy that works on subaru, owns a 22b, rallies 05 spec c , subaru has lost the plot, cars are not sporty, heavy and slow boring cars living on past hype, if it was rebadged and sold under another brand no one would buy it. Sad days.
At 57 I've had a few cars in my time...built a few cars, trucks, bikes. At 57 in the midst of my various tattoos you'll find a WRX rally logo, the only car logo as of yet, and that's solely due to the fact that in an 02 Bugeye, after many mods and iterations, it was that Bugeye that supplied me with more wins, fun, challenge to my ability as a driver and enthusiasm overall. We all get tattoos for stupid reasons, but this one has reason, it has meaning, a meaning that time cannot erase... ever!
The 02 bugeye is an unmatched weapon 🤫
as a rally fan i wound never drive a car without rally legacy so Subaru is one of the brands for me
I've seriously destroyed some gravel in the 02....and laid stripes on the pavement too. One of the few capable of BOTH. 02 makin 305hp/304tq and I'd only sell it for an 07 sti with a center diff and tallest gear ratio...and then I'd probably build a 207 motor for it. But the chassis/paint would need to be great to consider it even... Bodywork=$$$$$ and I don't know and can't do that stuff.
Mitsubishi killing the EVO was a bad decision for both them and Subaru. No special, fun cars from Mitsubishi, no competition for Subaru. It made Subaru relax and get lazy with the WRX redesign. While the GR Corolla and Golf R have AWD and 300+hp, they really don't have a reputation in rallying, unlike the Volkswagen Polo, Toyota GR Yaris and Celica GT4 respectively.
Isn’t the Yaris and the Corolla the same platform though ?
American Rally? Sure its not WRC but WRC is only sub-compact hatchbacks with small displacement engines now. WRC lost its meaning more than the WRX
This video is awesome. I just recently bought a 2018 wrx sti, and absolutely love it. I am saddened by the direction Subaru is going. Growing up all I knew about Subaru was rally and the wrx and sti. Seems like Subaru has ditched the enthusiast niche.
The new wrx is basically a nanny car, beeps at everything
Yeah I'd say that 2018 is past STIs prime by a solid decade.
@@matthemberry Sure, I won’t disagree. But the 2018 doesn’t have all the stupid nanny systems, and feels more raw then the majority of new cars.
That's funny considering the new WRX is a much better performance car than last gen. Have you seen the numbers it's pushing?
I remember test driving a VA and the tune was really really bad.
@@EvolutionIX219 I’m unsure as to the performance part. I haven’t looked into the new gen all that much or driven it before. I do not like the nanny systems that it comes with, nor the looks of the car in general.
In regards to the numbers it’s pushing, whenever a brand new vehicle or model comes out, everyone tunes them to see how much power they can get, but reliability and whether or not they can drive it 2000km before it blows up is another question.
Every driver has a different perspective on the way a car drives.
I still have my 1995 Impreza WRX STI Type RA Version ("1") here in New Zealand Such a bare-bones raw car full of character. Simple but really rewarding drive. Got to be good when the designer of the Impreza has one and a 22B. One of 500 proposed. Definitely a keeper !! Miss those old WRX v EVO battles which faded as both brands lost their direction. How awesome it would be if they (and other car manufacturers) managed to get their 90's mojo back.......
That STI RA would be a weapon. A true analog raw driving experience. Y'all Kiwi's are lucky with your lax import legislation. Here in Australia it has always been so regimented.
@@gavinr9107 yeah mate - love it. Picked up from Japan in 2015 for NZD$13k; all original. Only option had been factory A/C. Still had pea-shooter exhaust, CD/cassette and OG wheels (mint). Bought at 123000km; just rolled to 144000km. Kept for dry weather use only; but used !!!!!!!!!!
I'm a Kiwi living in Finland bro, i pick up a bugeye WRX STI here few years ago. Love the car, great in the snow. It's great with the EJ207 engine and 6 speed dccd gearbox.
Great vid!
My 2016 WRX saved my life, I was rear ended by a semi, she was my daily and autocross car..
My 2019 STi is my #1 dream car 😊
The manual stick added to AWD is what makes Subaru cars unique - the handling and engagement with the car itself is just as good as you can practically get at that price point - when Subaru went all net zero soft and put in CVT and autos they killed the performance market stone dead - the price of second hand cars know looks to be soaring, I am lucky to have a 6 speed box in my 3.0 Legacy because they are impossible to get now and nobody is taking this off me.
The car is 20lbs heavier, it’s faster then the previous gen wrx…. The gearing makes 0-60 slower but it’s faster overall, rides better, handles better, better put together and more reliable. I came from older Subarus. The cars were trash for what you pay for. The hate is real on a car that is better in every way. Sad to see the sti go, big misstep but if we are doing a wrx comparison, it’s the best one yet.
Maybe the best WRX yet, but VB wrx still falls short to VA STI in every way possible except the useless stats like mpg etc. talking from a driver's car perspective. The STI will always besuperior and subaru really fucked up by not offering a VB sti.
But it's also way uglier, less enthusiast focused, more plain, and CVT as the top trim? It's just watered down from what it used to be.
I still daily my 1999 Impreza WRX :) it requires a lot of attention and has high fuel consumption, but it makes me smile every time I drive it. Absolutely love it.
My 2017 drinks fuel if you go into boost. The issue is that it goes into. Boost too easily without a tune. Still saving for access port and all that to do so
I remember my uncle used to own blue and gold livery WRX STi Blobeye and metallic white LanEvo 9 at the same time. Both are crazy cars with their own ways. I did get the chance to drive both cars few weeks after I got my driver's license. Love both cars. But the LanEvo 9 looks won my heart even though the performance of the WRX STi amazes me. Crazy times for sure. And I'll never forget the experience of driving both great rally legends.
Still bummed about the fact that DSM terminated producing the Lancer.
Yeah it really sucks, and subaru is terminating the WRX. They already said they want ALL their cars to have eyesight, and they cant seem to make the eyesight work with manual trans, so auto only in a few years. Then theyll phase out the WRX altogether. then NA engine for hightly restricted turbo, then EV only. We are fucked. I will rumble on about with my STI forever. It may even be my sons first car...
I still have my 1999 GC8 WRX that I've owned for the last 23 years in the iconic WRC blue with gold wheels. It's still completely stock standard and probably the best car I've owned. I still get excited driving this car. It's lightweight, nimble, and raw to drive. I love the distinctive boxer rumble from the EJ20 engine. It's a shame that's now missing from the newer FA20 motor. I've had many offers to buy the car, but I have knocked them back. I'll probably keep this car for as long as I live.
Goosebumps all over man I owned a 2004 and currently an 2019 sti and I can tell you I would die before I let it go
Well, i'm sure it's head gaskets will turn into vapor soon and test your dedication to that notion
@AUSTIN head gaskets were only an issue in early 2000's non-turbo ej25 engines but ok
I own a 22 VB and this video should have a part II. The tuners are seeing the most power out of this new engine than they’ve ever seen with similarly tuned engines in the past. I get it. The cladding isnt for everyone. But once you get past the cladding the engine has potential. People are already seeing well over 400lbs torque and 400HP. The stock boost is 12. T W E L V E. Once my coil overs are installed and I throw my bronze wheels on my WRB vb I think it will proudly represent. Dont give up folks.
Being a family man with kids, the closest I got to the WRX was the Legacy (called Liberty in Australia) GT Wagon, MY2004. I still own and drive it, almost 250,000 km after 18 years. I recently replaced my front lower control arms, a CV shaft, upgraded to Bilsteins B4. I'll never let it go. My kids are all married now and left the nest. I'm 70 this year but the "degenrate" in me is still there.
Some say degenerate, some say legend, I love too see old people driving cool cars, most people over 50 have horrible soulless crossovers here
What a totally false statement: "Doesn't believe in us enthusiasts anymore".... Huh. I'm looking at my new Subaru WRX, the most powerful, best handling one ever built, and the only $30k, AWD, manual performance car you can still buy. What a load of hyperbolic crap you start out with.
Great summary of the history of he Impreza. I still have a 2000 2.5 RS in the garage.
I agreee
Man this one hit in the feels!
Currently have a 2001 Bugeye WRX; and had it for over 6 years. Not the most elegant car but it’s been utterly reliable and so much fun for me!
Much like two dogs that grew up together...became best friends...pushed one another each and every day...when one of the dogs passed away the other wasn't far behind.
The WRX & Evolution are the dogs, brothers from another mother. One cannot exist without the other.
Wonderful video 👊🏻
that beautiful 2000s wrx is what im working towards.
Car manufacturers doesnt think about the enthusiasts anymore and it makes me sad that we have to look at the older cars because they were way more cooler than the junk being released today
I clearly remember back in the day how many hated and trashed upon the style in the 2000's as Neon look a likes. Now they are classics. You'll get used to the new one as well don't worry. :-)
My hot take on the VB generation of WRX is that it is the smart way to keep the enthusiast market happy, while keeping investors happy. In stock form it can be sold to an enthusiast OR the average person. The Enthusiast will push it to it's potential with the new motor, where as the average consumer will find it as a live-able four door sedan with four wheel drive and a little pep. With it currently being one of the few "sports cars" without a crazy dealer markup, it still retains the everyman's sports car status from years ago. Now I do feel that Subaru's development team has taken the edge off since the death of the evo, but as many here said without competition it won't see the same consistent improvement year after year. I am just happy it is still in production with so many others beginning to fall. In terms of the STI being killed off, I think that was a bit overdue. STIs while great are oversaturated IMO, I would have rather seen other trim levels introduced over time as seen with something like the mustang which has the "Boss" or the "Mach-1" nameplate to separate two different yet strong performance editions. I think the US' new GT trim is a bit of a misstep as it doesn't host performance incentive to my knowledge, but having a "GT" that boasted 300hp would have been the right move.
The only rational take here
Mine will stay stock. Not only because i love it the way it is, but resale. Might be one the last gas manuals.
Um what?? All depends what part of the world your in because Subaru was never known for sports cars.. they was the quirky cheaper alternative. In the 90s that’s when they kicked off there “ sports car” by entering rally. Where as Mitsubishi has “sports cars” before Subaru even tho they have been in rally longer than Subaru at that stage in time.
But why would a normal person buy a wrx over a legacy
@@eeNPeeCee why would anyone buy legacy, lol. old b4's were fine (on 20x and 6mt), but modern are really weird. like, for what? its not fast and its not Outback.
just a cheap car with kinda bad interior. compared to bmw 5 for example.
The only modern cool Subaru is Outback. Or wrx, I you into Camry like cars, lol. but its still KINDA cool
Just picked up a 98 V4 STi with 80km on the click as a daily. Bought it for all the reasons that the modern WRX isn't.. a raw JDM car with personality. Can't say iv ever been a big WRX fan, but its a fun car.
Some of the greatest days of my automotive life were at the wheel of my WRX and WRX STI. Both tuned to 500hp, they were so fun to drive, I wish I had kept the STI.
Had an STI. The saddest day of my life was letting her go. And even sadder when Subaru announced there will no longer be an STI. Not in ICE form at least. 😔
Sorry for your loss :( i hope i never have to let mine go.
Absolutely awesome! Love these video essays. I could listen to Trav narrate all day
I just hope Subaru won't make the same mistakes Mitsubishi did... It pains me what happened to Mitsubishi and at this moment I'm very close to buying 2nd hand 5 year WRX, cause its literally the only car that fits all my needs from everyday utility, to fun and reliability in the worst road conditions. There's no other car like that at the moment.
Nissan killed Mitsubishi when the took over the majority stake. Toyota is doing the same thing with Subaru.
@@johnlicht6532 it definitely seems that way
Great vid, def felt this one 🫡 I have a VB but always dreamt of owning a blobeye STI, I had the chance to try my friend’s and was blown away, learned what character in a car really meant.
Dude the new wrx is actually the best wrx we ever had, I do not understand the hate, its affordable and its a great platform to upgrade, the reason why people do not like it, is cause the back looks like an old civic but seriously the car performs nice, we can't just be happy. It's not selling cause many people had moved to freaking suvs or crossover it has nothing to do with the wrx this generation has switched to suvs.
I actually love my 2022 WRX and I managed to buy it without a cent of dealer mark up. A lot of the issue with making exciting cars is simply that money isn’t there for car makers. People are buying big, soft crossovers in droves.
I was undecided about selling my wrx but since watching this vid my mind is made up I'm keeping my blobeye forever it will be my weekend ride
The WRX single handedly brought many of the legendary JDM cars to our shores. I remember when the WRX came out in 2001 in the US, it was the talk of the automotive press daily for a good year. We were starving for it. Whats not to like....4-doors, AWD, Turbocharged, crazy hood scoop, affordable. After this came the STI, EVO, ISF, then GTR. The WRX showed that the import tuner scene was no fluke and it was an important segment of the market. The WRX had a massive and thriving aftermarket following with companies like Cobb, Perrin, Invidia, Grimmspeed, Subispeed, Rally Sport Direct. These companies were raking in millions.
19 years on still own my 1998 impreza wrx, even on british salt roads, will never die in my eyes, only after I pass. Wonderful iconic and puts a smile on my face every day I drive it as its a daily. great vid by the way. one day they will wake up like toyotas yaris gr4.
I recently purchased a 2005 sti and have a 2002 WRX. Love these cars. I wish they still made them driver focused
Fell in love with Subaru back in high school when I first heard that iconic rumble. Finally got my hands on a brand new 21 STI in my 30's and it's just been smiles per gallon ever since the moment I drove it off the lot. This video definitely hit me in the feels and whatever happens to the wrx's future, it will always be one of my favorite cars of all time!
Excellent! Enjoyed the way this piece was presented! This is just another reason why I have kept my high mileage '05 model for over a decade and will continue to keep it.
Yeah brother! Have had my 05 since November of 2009 and still love it. Was my daily at first, but has been my toy for the past 5 or 6 yrs now. Doubt I'll ever part with it. WRX4EVA!
Don't let it go its special, I have the blobeye wrx 2004 for 9 years now and I will never let it go
As someone who grew up driving boring Toyotas and started enjoying cars watching Top Gear a while back and playing GTA, my brand new VB WRX has made me love driving to work and honestly anywhere so that I can say, the excitement is not totally dead.
The new wrx is actually really good, especially when you factor in the price and tuning capabilities.
No bro
Disclaimer . Content only relevant to USA 🤷🏿♂️ , late 80's early 90's Subaru's were massive growth years here in Oz , RS EJ20 Turbo available from '89 @5172🇦🇺
i also feel like the WRX lost the plot a little by not being tied to the current impreza. one of the cool things about the WRX is that link back to the plain jane version
I'm with you on this. If we're talking about having "love" in making a car and pretending that such a philosophy exists beyond the ad campaigns, then this separation was / is part of the issue. They made a great car with the Impreza, and then they decided to make it crazy. Separating the trim from the base vehicle really did something. I wish I could put it into words to at least try and make an argument, but it's just a feeling, to me, at this point.
That being said, they lost their way because it costs a fortune to continue to develop something like a WRX for so long. Type Rs and Golf Rs (with AWD, an important distinction), and all the others come and go in the U.S. Market. Apart from development, Subaru had to continue to make the base chassis competitive with the competitors in ride quality and size.
And I know someone will say, "they didn't even make the interiors that great," and yeah, that's how tough the competition is. And if you really think Subaru can survive on a small chassis making go-fast models of it, spending money to make them fast + quiet + with nice interiors, I have a bridge to sell you.
A go fast Subaru might come back if they come out with a proper compact car again, it does well, and then they decide to do a special edition of it. That's how they'll have to do it. Essentially, the Ford (European Ford market) way of special cars.
The STI is still #1 in my book!
Saddens me so much I am a huge fan of rally. I live in the mountains with lots of snow so I drive a 2" lifted 2012 wrx STI with bars on the grill, off road lights and skid plates. So fun on the back roads during a snow storm with the all the lights on and drifting.
The CVT has ruined the entire Subaru lineup. Also the first generation WRX was murder on head gaskets.
Subaru was at its peak from 92-2015 since then they have lost their true heritage and haven't bounced back. You need challenges you need a rivalry for without rivalry you won't strive to improve.
nonsense, this is capitalist nonsense
Bro the stop caring cuz it ain't selling this the facts I swear use ur head
All we can hope is that Subaru starts a friendly rivalry Toyota and their GR corolla because we all know Subaru if they get serious and passionate about rally inspired performance cars again they could and can build something better than the GR Corolla
@@benmorris7276 subaru is toyota now. No rivalry there. Cvt Transmissions are trash. Like the man said fatter, lazier, slower, boring.
@Ben Morris why would toyota Green Light that subaru has its niche that has been buying cars well why would they go try to appeal to a demographic which doesn't wanna get they cars
Being new to WRX (I have the VB), I enjoyed this video as you took it back in time where it all started. But I can confidently say that the VB is definitely not the slowest one. But I really do enjoy taking my WRX out in the dirt roads.
I have 5,100kms since November 2022 on my poverty spec VB…nothing else in its price range comes close. It is wildly entertaining.
@@billisdewillis5 originally I wanted the GR Corolla. But they are hard to find available and extremely marked up if one becomes available. But I’m extremely happy with getting the WRX instead. I’ve taken it in the elements on so many occasions.
Not talking smack but I bought a 22 wrx and while it was a pleasant place to be and performed well, I just didn’t care for it. I had a 2016 before it and I miss that car like crazy. Not bashing the new body style, just it didn’t do it for me.
@@Trex6767 the new body style grew on me. I don’t mind it at all anymore. I actually like it now. Though I take it out on dirt roads and snowy mountain passes and is always dirty. I get more compliments when it’s filthy then when it’s clean.
@@mtntrailsubie
It’s a good car but the ultimate thing was it wasn’t as driver connected as previous wrx. Like I said before it’s a nice place to be and it’s performance is good, it just didn’t excite me to drive. I’ve owned a blob eye, a 2011, and a 2016. This one just felt too grown up for my taste is all.
Since I played Gran Turismo 4 when I was 5 years old I fell in love with subaru in rally, now Im 22 and have a WRX, I love it
The VB is definitely not the slowest. Stock they are keeping with last gen STI’s
Got my 2019 WRX and couldn't be happier. Glad I got one before the icon was neutered. Though, a case could be made that mine is neutered compared to earlier models.
My 2017 STI is still my favorite car I’ve ever owned. It was the accomplishment of a childhood dream and I’m eternally grateful that I had my time with it. However, as with most people I imagine, my life outgrew the STI. I no longer needed a sporty, stiff, loud and savage sedan. I needed a truck. But, when the time comes to have a second vehicle, I’ll go right back to an old WRX, because it will always have my heart.
Times a tickin lollll…. And I get why you got out of it… but dammit I would’ve kept it
Technically it’s not slower. The new VB is much more accommodating to the tuner community than the VA, both the FA and the EJ.
The new 2.4 in the VB holds power much better than the EJ25 in STI. It’s definitely faster.
In stock form, however, it's slower
It’s faster then the va wrx in stock form. 0-60 might be slower because of gearing but it’s faster in every gear and a better car overall.
@@samjaw82 seemed like a step in the wrong direction when i drove one. But i'm biased cause i daily an sti
@@ianholmquist8492 I’m 50/50 on the platform. The car definitely does feel bit more catered to family friendly crowd. But also at the same time, the move makes sense because the crowder that was into the WRX/STI hype in Hawkeye, bugeye, and blobeye are now grown up and have families. But at the same time I can see how even STILL….. the child in us wants to sporty, rip it up in the gravel kind of a car.
Regardless, the platform hasn’t hurt the tuning community.
I lost my shit when I found out the STI was no longer being produced. Dammit subaru. How could you do this to us?!
That news made my sti worth skyrocket so high, i saw people giving into it and selling theirs. never me
@@Laborchet lolll I feel you … mine is safe and sound right outside my door to my garage…I’m never ever going to get rid of her
Last summer, i sold my 2019 wrx for a outback wilderness.
Just because of the new soft , slow and way to heavy new version .
Since 1995 it was my favorite car ......but i lost faith,,,, im sooo sad 😪😪😪
Bring the wrx back ....
Excellent video!!! Brought me back the nicest of memories....
VB is the best wrx ever made that isn't a limited edition (22b, s209). I wish they had made an sti trim with 340 crank hp (10lbs/hp) because the new chassis could take it without sweating. 240 at the wheels is fine for a rallisport car thougjh.
keeping my S209 because of this video🤙
Changing the exhaust manifold thus changing the sound took the old cars charm away. That burble when the engine is warm was the best. As good as the twin turbo Legacy GT-B - as it was basically the same flat four. Good times in the late 90's and early 00's over here in NZ with the JDM imports! And we had them all!
I love my Bugeye
In the late 1990's / early 2000's, I was dreaming of having a Subaru WRX / STI as my daily driver. That car was so far ahead at that time... the turbo burbles can be heard of one car going past, just epic machine.
Then they changed course back to family car and toned down the noise, CVT transmissions, etc ... lost me as a customer.
Now I have a Mk7 Golf R, and it's similar to what I wanted my Subaru to be.
Give us back not only the WRX but the STi!
The VB wouldnt have tanked so hard if they AT LEAST offered an STI variant with the EJ, the DCCD and the brakes, trans etc.
I have an 04 STI. Saw a rally blue with gold wheels come into work one day when I was 16 and knew at that moment I wanted one of these beasts. I love these cars to death regardless of what reputation they may get. If I ever sell it the only reason would be to own a newer one. I love you and your sporty practicality subaru:)
All those whining about Subaru "Leaving the Enthusiast", getting soft, slow etc. According the Car & Driver, the new BASE WRX is 3.9 seconds faster than the beloved 2015 model around VIR as per the lightning lap results. It's also faster than the BRX, pretty much a match for the 2018 performance pack WRX , a couple seconds faster than the '08 STI, and about a second behind the 2015 STI. Again, all this with the base model.
Raise your hand of you love Subarus
I’d disagree. I say this new model is more enthusiast focused, bigger motor, more reliable, more potential. Last couple generations were too street focused, there’s a reason it’s softer and taller.
Nothing scream enthusiast like spending 5k just to make it not a ugly fat version of it former self. I own a 2021 I wish it had the 2022 motor tbh but certain top trims only being in a cvt and it just looking like it fucked a fat crosstrek just kills it for me
Shame the VB model has no proper gearbox, CVT or cable shift split case 6 speed, No thanks
We’re a family of Subaru tragic’s,currently own 4, including a 1999 WRX.
Love to see them come out with something special to compete with the GR Yaris Rally.
I have a 94 legacy wagon now rwd converted. It was an ex rally/ drift car and she runs lovely 🤟
That’s what you want the older 90s early 00s models are best but legacys well liberty’s here in Aus are underrated goes just as hard on the inside but ok the outside it’s proper grandpa spec 😉
Have you been living under a rock? In Subaru fashion. They did not disclose all the excellent upgrades to the FA24. They just said modesty. Here's a better WRX. The claimed HP to the crank is actually only a little less to the wheels. So they pulled a VW move there. That's why I can beat stock STI's with my VB out the box. Also, electronic wastgate, higher pressure fuel, beefy con rods- Beehive valve springs and internals are making this VB hold record numbers with just bolt on's VB'S are making 400+hp 460+ ft-lbs on E85 blends with just a j pipe tubo back, TMIC or FMIC,intake and and that's it. 300+ close to 400ft.lbs is common with pro tune and just an intake on 93 or E30. The Trans is fine and clutch is good. The high numbers require a stage 3 clutch. So my point is it's not dead. This is the best WRX to date. Yes, no STI Trans is disappointing. But for the money, it sh!ts on a factory STI. Do your research, bud.
All the VB guys think they are fast now. Even a stock sti is slow but still faster than the VB. Stock for stock, the 21 sti and 22 wrx weigh the same. But the sti has 40 more hp, and 30 more lb ft of torque and shorter gearing. If you can beat an sti, it's because whoever is behind the wheel of the sti can't drive.
@Ian Holmquist No its because the stock tune on last gen STI was utter shit.
Dude, they make more to the wheels then a STI and have better gearing stock then any STI. Subaru sand bagged the numbers. It's been proven time and time again bro. You could never make this power with bolt on's with EJ. It's not the driver. It's the factual data. The only thing better on a VA STI is the non splitcase Trans and brakes, which are overrated Brembo's.
You think it's a freak thing I've beat 2 STI's and a stage 2 WRX. Not to mention a couple of 6th gen Mustangs from light to light. That was bad driving, though. Blew the tires.
@@ianholmquist8492 we are.
i will forever keep my STi. i loved the platform so much i bought the model twice.
I will probably keep mine forever too. I cant see it being possible to buy a 2L turbo 4cyl car in the next 5 years. they will all literally be gone. I will still rumble on about while everyone is at the charging station lines.
@@Laborchet They'll rust like all the Subarus I've owned in the past (2) wrx (2) sti (1) LGT or they'll blow their ringlands in cyl #2
@@DANNY40379 and thank god for the wide availability of parts… and the fact that I don’t drive mine in the winter/salt
It breaks my heart and it’s not only Subaru that has let us down.
The Impreza WRX, it was love at first sight in a magazine back in the late '90s, and I still dream of it to this day. I have had driven one of the '97 model and it was exhilarating.
I own a 2006 STI and well i tried a Golf R recently but you still cant beat the scooby feel they are just so exciting.
I have had just about every gen of wrx/sti currently have an 04 and it's by far my favorite and will never buy a newer one.
I'm glad the ideal team noticed that video essays are what the algorithms desire.
Couldn’t agree more…. At 44 I just ordered a Dads WRX (Outback XT) here in Australia…. They won 10 in a row… powering through the forests in the Nations capital where I live. They need to new Motorsport partnership to get their mojo back
Im guessing the outback xt only comes with a CVT ??
A world without the WRX is a sad place
They really captured lightning in a bottle with the GC8. Since then it’s been an uphill battle to retain what made the car so great while fighting stricter and stricter safety, emission, comfort, etc standards to make the car marketable. We have all witnessed the Impreza slowly drift away from what it really was. It’s only a matter of time before the WRX becomes a thing of the past.
i disagree with the end of this video. the 22wrx has way more room for power in the engine. its a better platform than the previous gen.
Around 2007 the CEO of Subaru Australia stated Subaru wanted to change the image of its vehicles. they were considered to "racy" and wanted to target a more conservative market. So they re-marketed and redesigned the car, basically made it into a all wheel drive boring corolla. That was the end of it.
I absolutely love my 2016 sti. It has just enough performance, size, utility, and fun for me. When I had two kids and needed something that had room and got decent mileage this was really the only good option. Plus it's retained value better than any car I've owned. And the kiddos love getting dropped off at school in it cause the other kids like the "racecar" that brings them.
Miss my bugeye so much now I have a 14 wrx one of the final ej25 models and I hope I never have to get rid of it.
I bought my Impreza in 2004 and had her until 2020. There were no Imprezas around but I got my hands on a WRX. I’m in love with my Grey Bear. I got my dream car before I turned 60.
The boys check her out and drool 🤤
I’ve owned my 03 wrx wagon for 10 years and a 22 wrx for about a month now and I can say for a fact these new VBs share the same spirit so not all is lost
i’m not ready for this video. 😢 “rip sti” say it ain’t so!
I have a 19' impreza hatch. I know it's doesn't have the heritage as much as the wrx or sti. But I love it. It's not the fastest and doesn't have to be. The car can handle nearly anything.
my 2002 20k turbo wagon still does 0-60 in 5.5 and runs so smooth it freaks out new passengers :)
my 2020 raptor eye has been beatean badly and im wondering if i should keep it
Glad I still have my 1999 Subaru Impreza 2.5rs no other subie looks better
I own a 05 legacy gt wagon and a 2019 wrx premium and while the 19 is pretty nice I still think the 05 goes harder, has more spirit to it.
I’ll keep my classic impreza coupe for as long as I can
Great video. I debated buying a final year STi. Ultimately, I bought a new 22. Keeping the miles low and the wax thick bc one day they might all be gone.
I was a fox body mustang fan; but can't be bothered anymore with mods and babying the car- I love my 2019 WRX; but left asking...what do I get to own next? I plan to cling to this car as long as possible; I doubt any new car will beat it (for what I want and need)
Not one Hawkeye was witnessed 😕
Major service, and where are you located
This makes me sick.
All the people in here who didn’t buy an STI when they were amazing are crying about them being gone 😂
Go drive a 2018-2021 STI and buy one before it’s too late.
I have owned every generation of STI.
Ignore the people who bag on the new ones. In reality they’re better safer cars and even with the extra 800lbs they outhandle a gc8 if you know how to drive. This is because they made the VA STI 40% stiffer than the 2014 STI was. The interior took a big step up also.
But the biggest thing about these cars is: ignore other peoples negative opinions. Just go drive one. That’s all it takes. I am still a V8 guy too, but man, there is magic in a 2015-2021 STI. Get one before it’s too late.
Also, Subaru deserves applause for staying as true to the STI dinosaur for as long as they did. I love them for it forever. They can go ahead and take the 2022 wrx out back and shoot it now, because it’s embarrassing us.
P.S. don’t fear the Lord’s engine. EJ 257’s just need tender love and care and you can pound them for 200k+
Here’s the key: change the oil every 2500 miles, check the oil before hooning, get rid of the stock oil pan and pickup if you want more power, if you want above 500 whp the recipe is simple and been reliable for 15+ years: close decking+align hone+bigger head studs/case bolts+forged pistons. And use e85 just for the knock prevention let alone the power. And don’t use paper oil filters like the blue subaru one.
And don’t lug any turbo engine or get into boost with 40 degree oil.
And from a tuner to all platforms: stop focusing on a power number and doubling car’s horsepower ratings with factory cooling/oiling- this is why we can’t have nice things.
Bottom line is to anyone who’s fantasized even one time about hammering on an STI: shut your mouth, drop your excuses and ignore loud idiots and just go drive one. Thank me later. I speak specifically of any legit STI ever made. Not a clone, those are trash. Even if done perfectly they are missing all of the extra factory sti chassis stiffening. They have lots of extra pinch welds and chassis stiffening that base wrx’s don’t. I promise you that there is a marked difference in driving a real sti and driving a pallet swapped wrx from kyle.
As a lifelong STI enthusiast, owner, and collector - thank you. This video needed to be made. Subaru had what is statistically the most loyal ownership group of ANY performance car made in the last 30 years. Profit obsessed big wigs and bean counters cheated hundreds of thousands of people - At least Mitsubishi couldn’t afford to make another Evo. Subaru just doesn’t care.
I still don't like the styling of the new WRX, but I really can't deny the potential of the engine. I understand why they didn't make an STi (emissions), but I'm not sure why they couldn't just keep the engine the same as on the base trim WRX and just include the typical LSDs & DCCD.