SPD Tuning Service

Page down for detailed information. Suggestions, comments and questions are always welcome.

Bet you thought this was a trick question.

The following are notes as to which Impreza models are best candidates for what level of tuning and what major changes they might need in the way of performance parts. It is best to discuss these choices and your plans in detail before you buy.

Qualifier One: Many people still hold the old view of Subaru as a cheap, rugged car, but in fact they are as expensive to tune as a BMW. And the results can be just as satisfying.

Qualifier Two: No detailed tuning options here. Just the general information as to which models are suited for what purpose.

Qualifier Three: Any US car needs the manual transmission changed to a turbo style transmission and clutch assembly if a high torque engine being installed.

Early 1.8 2wd - best candidate for 2.5 or EJ20G transplants as they will be cheapest used car and you will need to change many parts anyway. Also, the windup window models will be the lightest cars you can build by about 150lbs. Not a small consideration if you are really serious about performance. If you do not think so, try catching a 90-pound bag of cement dropped from 10 feet. Your brakes and tires will be dealing with it too.

The incremental cost will be more as far as adding AWD and a transmission than other models listed below. However, you are installing exactly what you want and saving up front because you are into an older, higher mile, less equipped car. Besides, this way you can have the pink slip. Always smart living.

Avoid 1.8 AWD Brighton models - needs running gear replaced and you just paid $1500+ too much. "You can't get there from here." The rear differential and axle shafts are of a smaller size and cannot be recommended due to the premium AWD brings for a used car. If you already have one, then it is as good to work with as any other model.

94-95? 2.2 "LS" AWD stick w/ ABS 4-wheel disk brakes. Second best car to do suspension/brake only mods. Could convert auto to stick, but needless expense if you are a patient buyer. Also good for 2.5 transplants, but the 2.2 would do the job for me until it dies.

94-95? 2.2 "L" AWD stick w/ drum brakes. Best car to do suspension/brake only mods. Needs ~$25o for rear disks. Should be more than $250 less than the LS model. Also good for 2.5 transplants. Could convert auto to stick, but needless expense if you are patient.

96? and up - 2.2 AWD drum rear brakes. These cars also have drum rear brakes. Needs ~$250 in salvage rear hub/disk brake assemblies to match 94-95 2.2 LS. With the change to rear disks and the late model premium you would pay, it is a toss as far as transplants against less expensive early models.

97 2.5RS - it needs re-tuning in the suspension area and is what, $20k out the door? Hey, no substitute for cubic inches. Because they are new, they cost is much higher.

Send mail to mshields@spdusa.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: May 23, 2000