Vanguards 1/43 Subaru Impreza Turbo

One of the most tuned (and possible stolen) cars of the UK roads in the 1990s. Introduced in November 1993, the Impreza was offered in either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) versions and as a four-door sedan/saloon or five-door station wagon/estate. According to a Motor Trend article written March 1992 on page 26, the name of Subaru's new compact was, initially, to be called the Loyale, displaying an official photograph of the 4-door sedan. In late 1995, a two-door coupe was introduced. }

The Impreza, like many Subaru-built cars, was equipped with a flat engine, a distinguishing Subaru characteristic. Initial engine choices included 1.6 L, 1.8 L and 2.0 L naturally aspirated engines as well as the turbocharged and intercooled 2.0 L engine. The basic turbocharged motor, the EJ20, produced from 179 kW (243 PS; 240 bhp) to 210 kW (286 PS; 282 bhp) in Japanese market WRX trim depending on model and year. Outside Japan, the turbocharged model was initially rated at 155 kW (211 PS; 208 bhp) and marketed as the 2.0 Turbo, 2.0 GT, 2.0 GT Turbo, 2.0 WRX, or Turbo 2000 AWD in the United Kingdom.

Vanguards have again made the best use of this casting by creating the Humberside Police version (VA12101) and some Colin McRae rally versions. It is a fine casting with detail like the front spots and air intake captured and proportions are good.

Only niggle that I do have - and if you look carefully - is that the tyres don't sit flush on the wheels. I would have also liked to see some different style alloys on there - more akin to that if the police version.