🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza P1

Model Variant:

P1 (Prodrive Performance Pack)

Production Years Covered:

1999-2000

Chassis Code:

GC8 (specific to P1 rally-derived variants)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Performance Compact Sedan/Coupe, Rally Homologation Special.

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf GTI (during its era).

Performance Focus:

The P1 is a highly sought-after, limited-edition model derived from Subaru's rally heritage, offering enhanced performance and handling over standard Impreza models.

Manual Purpose:

Provides essential technical information for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Subaru Impreza P1, crucial for preserving its performance and value.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair for Subaru Impreza P1 models from 1999-2000.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 500+ pages, typical for a full workshop manual.

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control, turbocharger system, intercooler.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (Type RA, 5-speed), all-wheel-drive system, differentials, driveshafts, clutch operation.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (independent struts, multi-link), steering rack and linkage, power steering system.

Brakes Wheels:

Brake system hydraulics, ABS (if equipped), front and rear disc brakes, parking brake, wheel hub assembly, wheel alignment.

Electrical Electronics:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, gauges, wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and related sensors.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection, glass, doors, bumpers.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Technical Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical system specifications, engine tuning data.

Depth Of Coverage:

Detailed, in-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Portable Document Format (PDF) for easy viewing, searching, and printing on any computer.

Printability:

High-quality, printable pages allowing users to create a physical copy of the manual for workshop use.

Binding Type If Printed:

Not applicable for digital download, but designed for easy printing and potential binding into a workshop binder.

Paper Type If Printed:

Not applicable for digital download, but original manuals typically used durable, matte paper suitable for shop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

EJ207 (Type RA Spec)

Engine Configuration:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled.

Displacement:

1994 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

Approx. 275-280 PS (199-205 kW) at 6,000 RPM (UK spec, potentially higher in other markets).

Torque:

Approx. 350-360 Nm (258-265 lb-ft) at 4,000 RPM.

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI/SEFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended).

Turbocharger Model:

IHI VF23 (Ball Bearing)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Type RA-derived).

Optional Transmission:

None offered for the P1.

Drivetrain Layout:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Torque Split (ATS).

Center Differential:

Viscous coupling center differential.

Rear Differential:

Limited Slip Differential (LSD) typically fitted to P1 models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (specific Subaru specifications may apply).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Typically 4-door Sedan (GC chassis code) and 2-door Coupe (GC chassis code), although P1 was primarily a sedan.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Wheel Offset Et:

ET48 to ET55 (typical range for Subaru)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Era-specific safety ratings, likely not comparable to modern standards. Focus on structural integrity derived from rally homologation.

Braking System:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) usually standard on P1, front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (specific sizes vary).

Traction Control:

Limited or no specific traction control system beyond the AWD mechanicals on P1.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags typically fitted.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette player with CD capability, often with limited speaker configurations.

Advanced Features:

Limited by era; focus on mechanical systems like AWD and ABS rather than electronic driver aids.

Connectivity Options:

None by modern standards. Primarily focused on mechanical performance.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, or more frequently under hard driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000 miles (100,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical. Typically 60,000 miles (100,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (API SN or newer).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, suspension bushings, turbocharger seals, exhaust system components (corrosion).

Ej207 Specifics:

Potential for ringland failure if consistently subjected to detonation or extreme heat without proper fueling/tuning. Importance of intercooler efficiency and oil cooling.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ series engines can develop increased oil consumption with age and mileage due to piston ring wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Motorsports Legacy:

Subaru's extensive history in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with drivers like Colin McRae and Richard Burns heavily influenced the development of performance Impreza models like the P1.

Impreza Generations:

The P1 is part of the first generation (GC/GF/GM) Impreza, specifically a late iteration focused on performance and handling.

P1 Special Edition:

Developed by Prodrive (Subaru's WRC partner) specifically for the UK market to homologate components for rally use and to offer a more potent road-going version.

Production Location:

Subaru's primary manufacturing facilities, with homologation and tuning components potentially handled by Prodrive.

Production Volume:

Limited production run, making it a collectible model.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rally Homologation Status:

The P1 served as a homologation special, crucial for Subaru's WRC efforts, demonstrating its performance pedigree.

Automotive Press Reviews:

Generally praised for its aggressive styling, potent engine, and exceptional AWD grip and handling for its class.