Subaru Impreza WRX STI · GC8 · Texas

JDM Subaru Impreza WRX STI import: the GC8

The STI didn't come to the US until 2004. The first-generation GC8 STIs, including the two-door Type R coupe, were Japan-market cars, and every one is now old enough to import. Walltap Garage finds the right one in Japan and brings it to Houston or anywhere in the US.

Find my STI Call or text Andre · (281) 745-8884

Updated November 2026 · Walltap Garage, Houston

Which STIs can be imported

ModelYearsStatus
GC8 WRX STI, Version I to VI (sedan)1994–2000All past 25 years
GC8 STI Type R (two-door coupe)1997–2000All past 25 years
GDB WRX STI ("bugeye")2000 onEligible by build month, early cars opening up now

GC8 STIs use the turbocharged 2.0-litre EJ20 boxer with all-wheel drive. Each car is eligible from its own build month. How the 25-year rule works.

What to check on an STI

  • Is it a real STI? Plenty of WRXs wear STI parts. Confirm from the chassis plate and documents.
  • Engine health. EJ20s don't forgive bad tuning or neglect. Modifications and engine swaps also affect EPA eligibility.
  • Rust. Rear arches and sills especially. Andre walks away from corrosion.
  • Repair history. Rally-bred cars get driven hard. Read the grade and the inspector's notes.

How Andre buys your STI

  • Inspected in person in Japan before any bid. Andre's exporter checks the car himself, looking for rust and the things an auction inspector skips. It's included with your deposit. Many importers buy off the auction sheet alone.
  • No rust. Ever. Andre walks away from any sign of corrosion, even on a high-grade car, unless you tell him it doesn't matter to you.
  • Refundable deposit. It goes toward your car if he wins it, and comes back if he doesn't or if you change your mind before bidding.
  • Honest about age. Every car is 25+ years old and sold as-is with no warranty, same as the contract says. Anything Andre finds, you hear about right away.

Have a car in mind? Andre will price it with you.

Find my STI

Questions buyers ask

Why import a JDM STI when the US had them?

The US STI started in 2004. The GC8 STIs, including the Type R coupe, were never sold here new, so Japan is where they are.

Can I import a bugeye STI?

Once the specific car is 25 years old from its build month. Early GDBs from late 2000 and 2001 are opening up now.

Can you find a Type R coupe?

Yes. Put it in your brief. They're fewer than the sedans, so allow more search time.

Do you have STIs in stock?

We source to order. Tell us the version, body and budget and Andre will search Japan for it.

Keep reading

Mitsubishi Lancer EvolutionThe STI's old rival.Nissan Silvia S13 and S14The S-chassis.All JDM modelsEvery car we source.

Your next step

Find your STI

Tell us the version, body style and all-in budget. Andre will tell you what's realistic and start the search.

Find my next car

Or reach Andre directly: Call · Text · WhatsApp · (281) 745-8884