Looking at buying a STI V 5 Impreza with full intention of converting it to a group N spec rally car. I need advice on wether it is a good move to use an import chassis as a base for the car rather than a UK spec chassis. Are there any serious differences which could affect sourcing of parts and hardware, alternatively can anyone point me in the right direction on the BBS to assist in my plight.

 

Hi Rob,

I'd have a good look at the regs if your going to convert it into a Group N. You better make sure that it will be allowed. There could be some problems with homologation on an import.

I'm not absolutely sure, but it's gotta be worth a check before you throw your well earned at it.

Cheers

Gazza

 

Not that I know anything about preping rally cars but I would have thought it would have been better to use a RA. These cars were designed to be converted into Group N cars and come with a lot of bits the other sti's don't. I don't think anybody uses a UK spec car in Group N.
Have a look at http://www.sidc.co.uk/faq.htm for a break down of all the models

Mark

 

Built a few Rally cars from Ra's,Type R's(2 Dr) and UK 4Dr.Am currently running V4 Type R in Gp A Trim but have just finished building V3 2 Dr in Gp N trim.Sti V5 makes good base as stepper motor Idle Speed Valve gives good ALS with suitable management system.We use GEMS and do all installation and mapping ourselves (and for lots of other teams too!!).If you want some more info E-mail me on Simpson.msport@virgin.net

Steve S.

 

Don't Bill Gywnne use Sti's. And are you looking a LHD or RHD as it may affect parts as well. Just a thought

 

The other option is to buy one already built then you can get out there straight away. Several in todays Motorsport News inc Bill Gyynne one for £17,500 ex Prodrive and another for £26K

 

I'm told that the V5 RA is the best base as earlier models had fudge for a gearbox. IIRC, the Group N Impreza scored bugger all results in group N trim until 1999, when David Higgins won Group N in almost every round of the BRC, including overall victory on the Welsh.