I am lookong to get a 1997 or a 1998 subaru impreza wrx. One is sti and the other is not, both are imports from japan. What are all the differences performance wise?

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Jeff answered 3 years ago

The engines are different, the STI of those years had forged pistons available. The 1998 STI had larger brakes. Depending on the STI version, it may include a DCCD 5 speed. There are also differences with the suspension, as the STI springs and struts are stiffer.

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jamnblues answered 3 years ago

These years are not as fast as the new ones- but they are still hot- I would pick the one that looks like it was owned by a middle aged man who only opened it up on the 4th of July- just looking at the cosmetics can tell you a lot- don't get stuck with the one that has done the Paris- Dakar Rally 10 times- these things are like '60s muscle cars- the people who bought 'em raced 'em relentlessly- that's what they are for! buying a used one is sketchy- don't worry about the minor differences- find one that is still intact, if you can

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wrxorsti answered 3 years ago

Now when it comes to hp, 0-60 and top speed is there a big difference?

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Jeff answered 3 years ago

Top speed is the same at about 130 mph. Horsepower depends on the tune, but I believe the STI tends to be about 40 more. The STI typically also comes with a larger turbo. Which year is STI, and which is WRX? Another heads up: Those years of STI had the EJ20K, which was a very high strung motor. Running the car on something other than Japanese high octane fuel will require a retune or you will likely grenade the motor.