Subaru Proves Its Might With Class Win at Nurburgring

The Impreza STI has claimed an impressive class win at the infamous 24 Hour Nurburgring race this weekend. The WRX STI tS, which was specially prepared by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), the firm’s in-house motorsport division, completed 142 laps (approx 3,603km) in 24 hours - 76km further than the car managed in 2010.

The WRX STI tS finished first in the SP3T class for sub-2.0-litre turbocharged vehicles, ahead of some notable race-proven machinery, including Team Raeder Mortorsport’s Audi TT S, Kissling Motorsport’s Opel Astra GTC and Michael Kraus’ Mitsubishi Lancer CTO.

Based on the standard Subaru WRX STI, the tS competition vehicle has been developed with a focus on weight-saving, improved aerodynamics and performance upgrades on its EJ20 turbo engine. The Nurburgring 24-Hour racer retained the standard model’s permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a setup that delivers unrivaled balance, stability and handling.

“As always, taking part in this race presents an enormous challenge, and our team has put in a mammoth effort to fight against some of the world’s best cars. In our third year of racing in the SP3T class, it’s clear that we have come a long way.  Our success in 2011 stands as testament to the fundamental capability of the WRX STI, and that STI’s direction in creating cars is not wrong,” said Hideharu Tatsumi, General Manager of STI’s Vehicle Experiment Department and Team Manager for the 24-hour race.

The Nurburgring 24-Hour is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most demanding races, combining both the Grand Prix circuit and the legendary Nordschleife course. The grueling event attracted more than 210 entrants this year, including some of the best European touring cars.