GC8
Subaru Impreza WRX GC import check
GC8 is the factory model code for the Subaru Impreza WRX GC, built for the Japanese market from 1992 to 2000. Every genuine car has a chassis (frame) number that starts with GC8-. That number is the one thing that links its Japanese history to its UK records.
GC8 at a glance
- Model code
- GC8
- Make
- Subaru
- Model
- Impreza WRX (GC)
- Body
- 4-door saloon
- Built
- 1992 to 2000
- Engine
- EJ20 (1994 cc turbo petrol)
- Drivetrain
- AWD
- Japanese trims
- WRX, WRX STi, WRX Type RA, WRX STi Type R
- Chassis number format
- GC8-nnnnnn
From our own model library. UK records sometimes drop the hyphen or the leading zeros of the serial; our check allows for that.
Known problems to check on a GC8
- Ringland and big-end failures on tuned engines
- Head-gasket leaks
- Rust in the rear arches and sills
These are common issues for the model, not facts about any particular car. Ask the seller about each one.
Kilometres, miles and the first UK MOT
A GC8 sold new in Japan has a speedometer in kilometres. When it is imported, the speedometer is either converted to miles or left in km, and the first UK MOT should record whichever the dial shows. Mistakes here are common, and they’re where mileage problems hide.
We put the Japanese auction mileage and every UK MOT reading on one timeline and check the crossing: whether the readings agree after converting, whether the km figure was written down as miles, and whether the first UK reading is lower than the car had already done in Japan. See an illustrative example.
Questions
What is the chassis code for the Subaru Impreza WRX GC?
GC8. A Japanese-market Subaru Impreza WRX GC has a frame number that starts with GC8, then a hyphen and a serial number. You’ll find it on the V5C and on a plate in the engine bay.
Which years was the GC8 built?
From 1992 to 2000, with the EJ20 (1994 cc turbo petrol) engine and four-wheel drive layout.
What should I check when buying a GC8?
Ringland and big-end failures on tuned engines. Head-gasket leaks. Rust in the rear arches and sills. Also check that the Japanese auction mileage lines up with the first UK MOT, because km and miles are easily mixed up.