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What is the fastest stock Subaru?

The fastest stock Subaru model is the Subaru WRX STI, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. This high-performance sports car is renowned for its turbocharged Boxer engine, all-wheel-drive system, and rally-inspired design.


Subaru's High-Performance Lineup


Subaru is known for its lineup of all-wheel-drive vehicles that offer a blend of practicality and performance. While the brand's more mainstream models like the Outback and Ascent prioritize utility and comfort, Subaru also produces several high-performance variants that cater to enthusiasts.


The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are the brand's flagship performance models, designed to deliver exhilarating driving dynamics and impressive straight-line speed. The WRX STI, in particular, is the most powerful and track-focused model in Subaru's lineup.


The Subaru WRX STI


The Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged Boxer engine that produces 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system, allows the WRX STI to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.


In addition to its powerful engine, the WRX STI features a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a driver-focused interior with supportive seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel. These performance-oriented features, combined with the car's rally-inspired styling, make the WRX STI a formidable contender in the high-performance sports car segment.


Subaru's Performance Heritage


Subaru's performance heritage can be traced back to the brand's success in international rally competitions. The Subaru Impreza WRX, the predecessor to the modern WRX and WRX STI, first gained widespread recognition for its rally-inspired design and turbocharged performance in the 1990s.


Over the years, Subaru has continued to refine and improve its performance models, incorporating the latest technologies and engineering advancements to deliver an even more exhilarating driving experience. The WRX STI, in particular, has become a symbol of Subaru's commitment to building high-performance vehicles that can excel both on the road and on the track.


Conclusion


The Subaru WRX STI is the fastest stock Subaru model, with its turbocharged Boxer engine and all-wheel-drive system allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. This high-performance sports car is a testament to Subaru's rich heritage in motorsports and its dedication to delivering exhilarating driving experiences to its customers.

Which Subaru model is the fastest?


The fastest stock Subaru is the 2004 STI WR1, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. However, customized and special-edition models can be significantly faster. The 2021 WRX STI is the fastest among the final generation of the WRX STI with a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds. 
You can watch this video to learn about the fastest stock Subaru WRX STI generation: 49sSeppYouTube · Sep 25, 2023
Fast production and special-edition models

  • 2004 STI WR1: 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds. 
  • 2012 WRX STI S206: 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. 
  • 2021 WRX STI: 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds (final generation). 
  • 1998 Impreza 22B STI: 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. 

Extremely fast custom/project cars 
  • Project Midnight: A custom WRX with 670 hp, built for tarmac speed. 
  • Airslayer: A 2020 WRX STI built for the viral Gymkhana 2020 video, with 862 hp and weighing around 2,700 lbs. 
  • Kozmic Motorsports WRX STI: A 1400 hp WRX STI that set a Subaru MPH record at 182 mph. 

Key takeaways
  • The fastest stock Subaru, based on 0-60 mph acceleration, is the 2004 STI WR1. 
  • Among the last generation of WRX STIs, the fastest is the 2021 model. 
  • Customized and specialized vehicles, such as Project Midnight and Airslayer, have significantly higher horsepower and much faster acceleration than any production model, even though they are not officially produced by Subaru. 



What's faster, EVO or STI?


The Evo averages an astonishing 4.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. It might only beat the Subaru STI to that mark because the Evo can get there, just barely, in second gear, although it also holds a slight advantage through the quarter-mile, too. That's despite ceding 10 horsepower and 192 pounds of curb weight to the STI.



Which Subaru WRX is the fastest?


Project Midnight
July 9, 2024 – Subaru Motorsports USA today officially revealed “Project Midnight,” the quickest and fastest ever WRX that makes its debut run at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 11 - 14.



Is the brz or WRX faster?


The WRX is faster in a straight line due to its turbocharged engine with more horsepower and torque, while the BRZ is faster around corners due to its lighter weight and rear-wheel-drive layout. The WRX's all-wheel-drive system gives it superior grip in slippery conditions, making it a more practical all-weather performance car, while the BRZ's RWD setup offers a more agile and fun-to-drive experience, especially on a technical track. 
You can watch this video to see a direct comparison between the Subaru BRZ and WRX in a drag race: 35sEdmunds CarsYouTube · Jun 15, 2023
Subaru WRX

  • Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L flat-four engine.
  • Horsepower: 271 hp.
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft.
  • Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD).
  • Performance: Faster acceleration in a straight line due to more power and torque. The AWD provides better all-weather traction and grip.
  • Practicality: A four-door sedan with a larger back seat, making it more versatile. 

Subaru BRZ
  • Engine: Naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine.
  • Horsepower: 228 hp.
  • Torque: 184 lb-ft.
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
  • Performance: Slower in a straight line but can be faster around corners due to being significantly lighter, making it more nimble.
  • Practicality: A two-door coupe with a smaller and less practical back seat. 

This video compares the engine characteristics of the Subaru WRX and BRZ, highlighting the torque difference: 57sBen HardyYouTube · Feb 25, 2023
Which one is right for you?
  • Choose the WRX if: You need a car that can handle all weather conditions, requires more practicality, and prioritizes straight-line speed. 
  • Choose the BRZ if: You are looking for a pure, lightweight sports car experience, prioritize cornering, and do not need all-wheel drive or a large back seat. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.