RARE IMPREZA SET TO BE A KNOCKOUT AT SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS' MAY SALE

May 5, 2016 by Silverstone Auctions

A rare 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi, one of the most sought after Japanese performance cars in existence, will be auctioned by Silverstone Auctions at the May Sale, at Silverstone race circuit on Friday 20th May.

This car has a mileage of just 2,500 miles and only one registered owner from new, the legendary British boxer, Prince Naseem Hamed. This very special example is one of only 400 made globally, all of which are believed to have sold in just 30 minutes, and is presented in excellent condition, offered at an estimate of £60,000 to £70,000.

The famous 22B model was introduced in 1998 to commemorate Subaru's 40th anniversary, as well as the third consecutive win in the FIA World Rally Championship. A host of special design features from the Peter Stevens' designed rally car were applied to the road going coupe, including the fender flared widebody, unique bonnet, front and rear bumpers and a one-off adjustable rear wing, as well as the unique '555' Blue paint colour.

But the 22B is not just a visually impressive car, the performance is astounding. With a 2.2 litre E22 engine, complete with forged pistons, a big turbocharger and intercooler, this car achieves zero to 60 mph in just four and a half seconds.

The 22B also features Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive,Bilstein suspension, Brembo brakes, and a twin plate upgraded clutch with 'ceramic' discs, meaning the 22B offers the driving experience expected of Subaru's signature STi and worldwide icon.

Nick Whale, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, commented ahead of the sale: 'We're delighted to be offering such an iconic car in the May Sale. These Imprezas come to market exceptionally infrequently and very few exist in the UK. The lucky new owner will have a lot of fun driving it as well as a very secure investment.'

This 22B also benefits from a recent full service by renowned specialists Roger Clark Motorsport of Leicestershire and is also sold accompanied by the special number plate featuring the letters 'WRC'. Inside, additional unique extras include headrests with Prince Naseem's unique logo and name stitched into the leather.

To find out more about the Subaru Impreza 22B and Silverstone Auctions' May Sale please visit http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/1998-subaru-impreza-22b-sti-.