Positioning:
Performance-oriented compact sedan, rallying heritage, enthusiast vehicle
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though distinct generations overlap), Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen Golf GTI
Drivetrain:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
Engine:
Turbocharged Boxer engine providing a low center of gravity and unique performance characteristics
Handling:
Renowned for its sharp handling and rally-bred agility
Powertrain:
Engine (EJ20 Series Turbocharged Boxer), Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Drivetrain (Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson strut, Rear Multi-link), Steering (Power Assisted Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Starting and Charging System, Body Electronics, ECUs, Sensors
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, HVAC, Safety Restraints (Airbags), Glass and Seals
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups), Fluid Level Checks and Replacements
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding (Top-end, Bottom-end), Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Scan Procedures, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams)
Engine Code:
EJ205 (Common for the 2.0L Turbocharged Boxer in many markets for this period, though variations existed)
Engine Type:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement:
1994 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 215-227 hp (depending on market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approximately 200-215 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tune)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-Point Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Premium (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU), often programmable for tuning
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Synchro-mesh with close ratios)
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (with lock-up torque converter)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD for manual, Variable Torque Distribution for automatic)
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Length:
Approx. 4410 mm (173.6 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1730 mm (68.1 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350-1400 kg (2976-3086 lbs), depending on trim and transmission
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 inches)
Wheel Size:
16 or 17 inches (standard on WRX models of this era)
Tire Size:
Typically 205/55R16 or 215/45R17
NHTSA Rating:
N/A specific to this era and market; earlier GC chassis had mixed results in early crash tests.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point Inertial Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player (optional) and 4 or 6 speakers.
Display:
Basic digital clock and radio display. No integrated navigation or color screens.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Tuning Potential:
The EJ205 ECU is highly tunable, and this model is a popular platform for performance modifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, especially under severe driving conditions. Use of high-quality synthetic oil is recommended.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first. Critical due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter. Check dipstick.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Head Gaskets:
While more prevalent in naturally aspirated models or later generations, some EJ20 Turbo engines can experience head gasket issues. Regular maintenance and proper engine temperature management are key.
Turbocharger Wear:
Turbocharger can experience wear over time, especially if maintenance intervals are skipped or if oil is not changed regularly. Oil feed line issues can also occur.
Clutch Wear:
Heavy use or performance driving can lead to premature clutch wear.
Suspension Components:
Bushings and bearings in the suspension can wear over time, leading to noise and reduced handling precision.
Heritage:
Subaru's long-standing reputation for durable, all-wheel-drive vehicles, often with a motorsport connection.
Generation Context:
The 1999-2000 models represent the latter part of the second-generation (GC8) Impreza, known for its rally success and performance tuning potential. This era bridged the gap to the significantly redesigned third-generation (GD) chassis.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (various Subaru plants)
Sales Context:
Initially popular in Japan and select export markets; gained significant following among enthusiasts globally for its performance and tuning capabilities.
