1993 Subaru WRX

The 1993 Subaru WRX marked the legendary debut of the World Rally eXperimental performance line, based on the first-generation Subaru Impreza. Launched exclusively in Japan, the 1993 WRX was built to homologate Subaru’s entry into the World Rally Championship, setting the stage for decades of rally-bred performance.

At its core was a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four (boxer) engine, producing approximately 237 horsepower in the Japanese-market WRX Type RA—a lightweight, competition-focused variant. Power was sent through a 5-speed manual transmission to an advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, delivering exceptional grip and cornering performance.

The WRX featured upgraded suspension, larger brakes, sportier bodywork, and rally-inspired touches like a hood scoop and rear spoiler. It was a compact sedan that punched far above its weight, offering explosive performance and everyday usability in one package.

Though the 1993 WRX was not sold in North America, it quickly gained a global cult following and laid the foundation for future STI models and Subaru’s long-standing rally legacy. Today, it's remembered as the car that started one of the most iconic Japanese performance lineages of the modern era.