Segment:
Compact Performance Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, rally sport fans, owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair knowledge.
Key Competitors Era:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Evo I-III), Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Nissan Pulsar GTI-R
Performance Differentiator:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, turbocharged Boxer engine, rally-bred heritage.
Design Philosophy:
Functional, performance-oriented, with distinctive hood scoop and body kit.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed component removal, inspection, repair, and reassembly (cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, rings, bearings, etc.)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (ECU, sensors, actuators), starting system, charging system, lighting, wiring diagrams
Transmission:
Manual transmission (detailed overhaul, clutch, drive shafts, differentials)
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), caliper and rotor service, brake fluid specifications
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures
Exhaust System:
Component replacement, gasket specifications
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (basic)
Body And Trim:
Interior and exterior trim removal and installation, panel repair (basic)
Electrical Body:
Interior lighting, power windows, door locks, mirrors, audio system wiring
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems using symptom-based analysis
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components like the engine and transmission.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners across various systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific wiring schematics for electrical troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics, including sensor readings, ECU functions, and system checks.
Repair Precision:
Emphasis on correct procedures, clearances, and specifications for professional-level repairs.
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), Turbocharged, Intercooled
Displacement:
1994 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower Ps:
240 PS (approx. 237 bhp)
Horsepower Rpm:
6,000 rpm
Torque Lb-Ft:
240 lb-ft (approx. 325 Nm)
0-60 Mph Estimate:
5.0 - 5.5 seconds (depending on source and conditions)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Turbocharger:
TD05H-16G (or similar variant)
Intercooler:
Air-to-air front-mounted intercooler
Length:
Approx. 4,340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,520 mm (99.2 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1,450 mm (57.1 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1,445 mm (56.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 140 mm (5.5 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100
Wheel Size Standard:
16x7.0J
Tire Size Standard:
205/50R16
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,270 - 1,320 kg (2,794 - 2,910 lbs)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official data available for this era and specific model in many regions. Focus on inherent design safety.
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on most WRX models of this period, check specific market).
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or market-dependent.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners for front belts.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Gauges:
Driver-focused dashboard with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge. Boost gauge often integrated or added.
Traction Control:
Limited to ABS and the inherent benefits of AWD. No electronic stability control systems.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature, depending on trim level and market.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic recommended).
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time interval for manual transmission fluid change.
Differential Fluid Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time interval for front and rear differential fluid change.
Coolant Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time interval for coolant flush and replacement.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.7 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically a green type).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (manual transmission), specific viscosity recommended in manual.
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 gear oil (manual transmission), specific viscosity recommended in manual.
Engine Reliability:
Head gasket failures can occur, particularly with modified or aggressively driven engines. EJ20G is robust but requires proper maintenance.
Turbocharger Wear:
Original turbochargers can experience wear or seal failure over time; regular oil changes are critical.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade, leading to noise and imprecise handling.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Rust Corrosion:
As with many vehicles of this age, rust can be an issue, particularly in areas exposed to salt and moisture (wheel arches, sills).