Subaru Impreza WRC 2001

Soon after the adoption of the new regulations for the World Rally Champions in 1997, Subaru boldly entered their Impreza WRC.

That wellbalanced machine was equipped with a powerful horizontally opposed 4 cylinder turbo engine, and secured that year's Manufacturers Title.


the following years, various improvements were made to the car in accordance with changes in the production model. The 2001 Impreza adopted a four-door sedan body and first showed itself at the season
opener, the Monte Carlo Rally.

The unique appearance of the car was
highlighted by small compound headlights, spoiler attached to the extreme rear and blister-style fenders.

The engine underwent extensive tuning in an effort to boost responsiveness, and major progress was made in regard electronic control of the
semi-automatic transmission and front, center, and rear differential gearing. Finally, allowing further adjustment to course conditions, either a titanium or carbon propeller shaft could be used on the 2001 version.

Subaru's ace driver, Richard Burns, was accompanied by Markko Märtin,Petter Solberg, and Toshihiro Arai.

Although the early part of the season By proved to be a struggle, the Subaru team steadily improved in the latter
part, with Burns taking 2nd place in the Argentina Rally, Cyprus Rally,
and Finland Rally, and 1st place in the New Zealand Rally
ous Imprezas, various modifications were made to improve reliability.