Started from the bottom, now we’re here — the Subaru Impreza. If you’re a lifelong Colin McRae fan, you’ll understand why this rally icon still captures the imagination of enthusiasts today. If the opportunity came along to buy a genuine low-mileage Impreza, many collectors wouldn’t hesitate. Here’s how Colin McRae helped create the Subaru Impreza that became a motorsport legend.
Background Checks
Now more than 20 years old, many Subaru Imprezas have become sought-after modern classics. With the right care and maintenance, these cars can still look and perform brilliantly today.
The McRae edition was the first in a series of limited-edition Impreza Turbos released by Subaru. Production was limited to just 200 vehicles and the model was created to celebrate Colin McRae’s first World Rally Championship title with the Subaru 555 World Rally Team.
Built in the UK by Prodrive, the cars were finished in Rally Blue and featured distinctive 6.5×16-inch gold Speedline alloy wheels. Inside, buyers were treated to Recaro seats trimmed in Le Mans fabric, matching door cards, unique badging and a numbered plaque on the centre console.
It’s believed that only a relatively small number of these special editions remain today. Their rarity has helped drive collector interest and values have increased significantly over the years.
If you’re interested in how rarity and condition can affect vehicle prices, visit our valuation guidance hub.
The Beast Itself
The Impreza holds a special place in rallying history. McRae played a key role in developing and testing the car, helping shape the driving characteristics that made it so successful in competition.
The iconic blue and yellow Subaru rally livery remains one of the most recognisable designs in motorsport. Externally, the McRae edition featured distinctive styling touches including gold alloy wheels and a factory-fitted sunroof.
Inside, the Recaro sports seats and driver-focused cabin created a purposeful yet comfortable environment. The design combined practicality with performance, helping the Impreza appeal to both enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
The overall stance was aggressive but approachable, with widened arches and muscular proportions giving it genuine road presence. It’s no surprise that the Impreza became one of the defining performance cars of the 1990s.
Although Colin McRae tragically lost his life in 2007, his legacy continues through the cars he helped make famous. Today, the Impreza remains one of the most celebrated rally-inspired road cars ever produced.
Racing Highlights
Colin McRae and co-driver Nicky Grist achieved some of their most memorable successes behind the wheel of the Subaru Impreza World Rally Car.
One notable victory came at the Safari Rally, where the Impreza demonstrated its durability and performance in one of the toughest events on the rally calendar. Throughout the late 1990s, Subaru continued to challenge for victories and championships across the World Rally Championship.
The Impreza helped Subaru secure multiple manufacturers’ titles and cemented the brand’s reputation as a dominant force in rallying.
Today, surviving competition cars and special editions remain highly desirable among collectors and motorsport enthusiasts. Originality, provenance and condition all play a significant role in determining their value.
For another fascinating look at rallying history, read our article on Lancia’s famous rally history.
You may also enjoy The 10 greatest petrol engines of all time, which celebrates some of the most iconic powerplants ever built.
What Is a Subaru Impreza Worth Today?
Values for special edition Subaru Imprezas can vary considerably depending on rarity, mileage, condition and service history. Limited-production models linked to Colin McRae often attract strong interest from collectors.
If you’re curious about what your current vehicle is worth, you can get an instant valuation online with Jamjar.
Whether you’re driving a modern hatchback or a future classic, understanding your vehicle’s value is the first step towards making an informed decision.