Road Test: 2004 Subaru Impreza WR1

Over the years, Subaru has done a few special editions to celebrate the success of their drivers. The WR1 celebrates Petter Solberg winning the 2003 World Rally Championship title. It was loosely based on the STi but power was increased to 316bhp thanks to exhaust and ECU mods. The WR1 also featured a few cosmetic mods to distinguish it from the other scooby's. Only 500 were made, we're testing number 287...

Looks:

The WR1 is instantly recognisable thanks to its anthracite 18" alloys and metallic ice blue paint - catch the car in the right light and the paint colour is quite stunning!
There are also a few stickers and mesh grilles to show it's not just a standard scooby. The WR1 also looks more purposeful thanks to its 25mm lower suspension and more aggressive front spoiler.
Inside, its pretty much standard Impreza other than the floor mats, gear knob and a plaque on the centre console reminding you that you're in the special one.

Driving:

Turn the key and the boxer engine fires into life, the exhaust surprisingly sounding quite restrained. The famous growl is still there when driving, but this noise level suggests that the WR1 is much more civilised than some of its high-street cruising cousins. The same can be said for the suspension - despite being lowered there are no crashes or bangs on country roads, just grip grip grip!
Located on the centre console is a switch and dial labeled 'DCCD' (Driver's Control Centre Differential). This allows the driver to shift the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Apparently, this makes the world of difference on track, almost eliminating the understeer that the STi was known for.
Overall, the WR1 feels very mature. The noise and comfort levels mean that this really could be an every day car, especially as it has 4 doors and a large boot.
What is amazing though, is how quickly this car can cover distance on any type of road, I'm struggling to think of anything that could pull away from it...

Stats:
Power: 316bhp
Weight: 1,480kg
0-60mph: 4.25secs
Top Speed: 155mph (limited)

Costs:
As you can imagine with only 500 made, there's not a great selection on sale! Expect to pay £10k+ for a half decent example.
Fuel economy isn't great - Subaru claimed mid-20's with 'normal' driving but who buys a car like this for mpg?!