Subaru has once again etched its name into the annals of automotive history. The Subaru WRX STI Type RA NBR Special, a বিশেষভাবে engineered machine, has shattered the four-door sedan lap record at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, clocking an astonishing time of 6:57.5. This remarkable feat not only underscores the prowess of Subaru’s engineering but also serves as a powerful statement about the capabilities of the iconic STI badge and the upcoming WRX STI Type RA production model. This record, verified by Nürburgring officials, highlights Subaru’s commitment to pushing performance boundaries and delivering thrilling driving experiences.
This isn’t the first time the WRX STI Type RA NBR Special has tasted victory. This very car has previously conquered the Isle of Man TT and impressed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed hill climb, securing the third fastest overall time. Now, it has conquered the daunting 12.8-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife, affectionately known as the “Green Hell,” in under seven minutes. The heart of this record-breaking machine is a rally-spec 2.0-liter Boxer engine, coupled with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. This potent combination, honed by Prodrive’s expertise, proved to be the perfect recipe for Nürburgring domination.
Dominick Infante, Subaru Product Communications manager, emphasized the purpose behind this record attempt: “We brought the WRX STI Type RA NBR Special here to set a record and call attention to the WRX STI Type RA that we will launch later this year. The WRX STI Type RA promises a great deal, with improved performance and styling and even better handling dynamics than the current car.”
The WRX STI Type RA NBR Special is far from a standard production car. Built by Prodrive, it starts with a 2017 WRX STI unibody, which is then fortified with a full roll cage for enhanced strength and rigidity. The engine is a heavily modified 2.0-liter Subaru WRC-spec boxer, featuring a 75-mm intake and a turbocharger running at a staggering 25 psi of boost. This results in an output exceeding 600 horsepower at a screaming 8,500 rpm. Prodrive estimates the top speed achieved at the Nürburgring to be around 179 mph in top gear.
To maximize grip and handling, the car is equipped with 9-inch-wide slick tires on all four corners and a WRC gearbox with an automatic clutch, modified for rapid paddle-shift operation, achieving shift times between 20 to 25 milliseconds. Aerodynamics play a critical role at the Nürburgring, and the NBR Special features a redesigned aero-package, distinct from previous iterations, generating approximately 650 pounds of downforce at top speed. A key element of this aero package is a Formula 1-inspired Drag Reduction System (DRS) rear wing. This system allows for dynamic adjustment of downforce and drag, deploying for maximum downforce during braking and cornering, and then opening up for reduced drag on long straights. The driver has precise control over the DRS via a steering wheel-mounted control, with position changes occurring in under 20 milliseconds.
Alt text: Subaru WRX STI RA NBR Special race car speeding on the Nürburgring track, showcasing its aerodynamic profile.
The “RA” designation, standing for “Record Attempt,” is not new to Subaru. It signifies a lineage of performance and pushing boundaries. The original RA endeavor dates back to 1989 when a Subaru Legacy competition car broke the FIA World Speed Endurance Record, covering over 62,000 miles in 18 days and achieving a top speed of 138 mph. This historical context underscores the significance of the “Sti Ra” designation as a symbol of Subaru’s performance heritage.
Carrying this performance torch forward, the 2018 WRX STI Type RA production model embodies the spirit of its record-breaking namesake. This limited edition car boasts enhanced performance through weight reduction, suspension refinements, and engine upgrades. Key features of the production “sti ra” include a carbon fiber roof panel, the removal of the spare tire, a carbon fiber pedestal wing, and lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels from BBS®, wrapped in 245/35R19 Yokohama Advan Sports tires.
Under the hood, the limited edition WRX STI Type RA is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, producing an estimated 310 horsepower, boosted by an STI-specified cold air intake and high-flow performance exhaust. A retuned ECU and stronger pistons further contribute to the engine’s increased output. The six-speed transmission features a revised 3rd gear ratio and a short throw shifter, enhancing acceleration and driver engagement.
Handling prowess is also a key focus of the WRX STI Type RA. It features inverted front struts and rear double wishbone suspension, all equipped with Bilstein® dampers. A modified multi-mode VDC system provides enhanced stability control. Braking is handled by a Brembo® system with monoblock 6-piston front calipers and dual-piston rear calipers, finished in an exclusive silver and paired with cross-drilled rotors for improved heat dissipation.
Alt text: Close-up of the Subaru WRX STI RA production car, highlighting its Cherry Blossom Red grille accent and BBS wheels, emphasizing its sporty design.
Visually, the WRX STI Type RA stands out with exclusive Cherry Blossom Red accents around the front mesh grille and rear bumper cover. An STI front underspoiler further enhances high-speed stability. Black accents on the exterior mirrors, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and STI fender badges add a touch of aggression. The rear deck lid proudly displays the WRX STI Type RA badge.
Inside the cabin, the “sti ra” experience is elevated with Recaro® performance design front seats featuring red bolsters and stitching, and embossed STI logos on the head restraints. Red stitching and accents continue throughout the cabin. The Ultrasuede®-wrapped steering wheel provides enhanced grip and features a black gloss-finish center spoke insert with the STI logo. Push-button start with Keyless Access is standard, and each of the 500 WRX STI Type RA models produced for retail sale is individually numbered with a plaque on the center console, further emphasizing its exclusivity.
The Subaru WRX STI Type RA NBR Special’s Nürburgring record is more than just a time on a track; it’s a testament to Subaru’s engineering philosophy, the capability of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and the enduring appeal of the STI badge. It serves as a thrilling prelude to the arrival of the WRX STI Type RA production model, a car that promises to deliver a taste of this record-breaking performance to enthusiasts. The “sti ra” designation continues to represent Subaru’s relentless pursuit of performance and its commitment to creating exhilarating driving experiences.
