A video tribute (by amjayes) based on the sound of the majestic flat-4 boxer engined, Group A, Subaru Impreza 555.
Following the Legacy RS and its single victory, the Impreza made its competition debut on the 1000 Lakes Rally in 1993. Subaru opted to call their competition model the 555 since their key sponsor was State Express 555 (British American Tabacco) who manufactured cigarettes, but were forbidden to advertise under FIA guidelines.
Being smaller than the Legacy it replaced, the Impreza was a more successful car. It used the same engine, chassis and strut suspension, but had smaller dimensions for increased responsiveness. The engine also got a new turbo, intercooler and cylinder heads. With these promising upgrades, Ari Vatanen finished second during the car's inaugural event at Finland's 1000 Lakes Rally, but it would take another year for an overall victory.
1995 was the turnaround year for Subaru. Star drivers Colin McRae and Carlos Sainz practically dominated the season, taking victories at the RAC Rally, Catalunya Rally, Rally of New Zealand and Portugal Rally. This set the pace for two further Manufacturers championships in 1996 and '97.
Colin McRae also won the Drivers' World Rally Championship in 1995. The Scotsman was the youngest world champion to ever clinch the title.
The 555 would continue to compete at world level into 1996, but an entirely new set of regulations forced Subaru to release the WRC97 for subsequent seasons.
supercars.net
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Tags: 1994, 1995, burns, group a, mcrae, prodrive, rac rally, sainz, sounds, subaru impreza, vatanen, video, wrc
