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Performance fans in Japan snatched up the Type RA-R quickly. Subaru Corp and its motorsports subsidiary Subaru Tecnica International (STI) just released the new Subaru WRX STI Type RA-R (Record Attempt-Racing), yesterday and they sold all 500 special limited-edition models in one day. Subaru and STI released the Type RA-R, based on the WRX STI to commemorate STI’s 30th anniversary of its establishment in 1988.
What sets this STI apart is the new WRX STI Type RA-R is lighter than the base STI and lighter than the Japan-spec S208. Subaru Corp says the Type RA-R is 30kg lighter compared to the previous S208 limited edition model and is 10kg lighter than the base WRX STI. It also gets a bump in horsepower and torque over the standard STI.
The WRX STI Type RA-R is powered by the S208’s hand-built EJ20 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve dual AVCS twin scroll turbo boxer with 329 PS (325hp). It gets a maximum of 432 Nm of torque (318 lb-ft of torque). Because of the weight reduction, the power-to-weight ratio exceeds that of the S208.
READ: How Exclusive Subaru WRX STI S208 Compares To the US-Spec STI Type RA
Type RA-R is also equipped with a performance shroud with high rigidity enabling the intercooler to work at maximum cooling efficiency. A performance exhaust system with lowered back pressure also contributes to higher engine output and more direct acceleration response. Subaru Corp says with these upgrades, the Type RA-R engine “revs up smoothly and its exhaust note evokes the high performance of the car.”
The suspension also received upgrades over the standard STI with exclusive dampers and coil springs specifically designed for the new Type RA-R. The performance sedan is equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, featuring different compounds between the outer and inner parts of the tread providing better grip on both dry and wet road surfaces. Type RA-R gets Brembo brakes with high-performance brake pads for better braking performance. Subaru says the suspension, tires, and brakes give extra margins for the Type RA-R and better controllability at high speeds.
It took one day for performance fans in Japan to snatch up 500 of the new limited edition Subaru WRX STI Type RA-R. Maybe Subaru will get the hint that fans around the globe want more power in the current-generation WRX STI.
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Photo credit: Subaru Corporation
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