What Makes the Prodrive P25 So Special—and So Expensive?
If you’ve ever wondered why a car like the Prodrive P25 can command a price tag that flirts with a million dollars, you’re not alone. On paper, it’s a modern reinterpretation of the legendary Subaru 22B, but in reality, it’s something even more exclusive. Only 25 units exist, each one a hand-built tribute to rally heritage, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge engineering.
Let’s start with the basics: under the hood sits a custom-built 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder, churning out a staggering 440 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. That’s not just a bump over the original WRX STI donor car—it’s a leap. Prodrive didn’t just tune the engine; they blueprinted it, adding forged pistons, steel connecting rods, ported heads, variable cam timing, and a new Garrett turbo. The result? Pure magic. This isn’t just a car; it’s a rolling showcase of what happens when you give motorsport engineers a blank check and a dream.
How Does the P25’s Performance Stack Up Against Modern Supercars?
Here’s where things get spicy. The P25 rockets from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds. That’s supercar territory, rubbing shoulders with the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo S and the McLaren Artura. But the P25 isn’t just about straight-line speed. Thanks to a featherweight 2,645-pound curb weight—achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber for the hood, roof, and quarter panels—it’s nimble, too. The sequential six-speed gearbox and AP Racing clutch make every shift feel like a celebration.
What’s fascinating is how Prodrive managed to shave off more weight than the original WRX, despite adding modern safety and performance features. It’s a testament to their motorsport pedigree, honed through decades of rally dominance.
Why Is the P25’s Value Skyrocketing on the Used Market?
Let’s talk numbers. The P25 originally sold for around $560,000, but recent listings have seen asking prices soar to nearly $934,000. That’s a jaw-dropping appreciation in just a couple of years. Scarcity is a big part of the story—only 25 cars, each with its own provenance and spec. But there’s more to it than just rarity.
The P25 taps into a wave of nostalgia among collectors who grew up idolizing the 22B and the golden era of Subaru rallying. It’s not just a car; it’s a time machine, a chance to own a piece of motorsport history reimagined for the modern age. And with the collector car market remaining robust—Hagerty’s 2024 Market Rating notes continued strength in rare, limited-production models—it’s no surprise that the P25 is attracting attention from enthusiasts and investors alike.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. A recent Bonhams auction saw a nearly-new P25 fail to meet its reserve, topping out at $468,100—well below both the original price and current asking prices. The market, it seems, is still figuring out just how much nostalgia is worth.
What Sets the P25 Apart from Other Restomods and Limited Editions?
Restomods are everywhere these days, but the P25 stands out for its authenticity and engineering depth. This isn’t a cosmetic makeover or a simple engine swap. Prodrive, the same outfit that led Subaru to World Rally Championship glory, poured their expertise into every detail. The car’s carbon fiber panels aren’t just for show—they’re functional, reducing weight and improving rigidity. The suspension, brakes, and drivetrain are all motorsport-grade.
And then there’s the driving experience. Owners report that the P25 delivers the raw, analog feel of a classic rally car, but with the reliability and refinement of a modern machine. It’s a rare combination. You get the visceral soundtrack, the turbo punch, and the agile handling, all wrapped in a package that turns heads at any cars-and-coffee event.
Is the P25 Really Worth Nearly $1 Million?
That’s the million-dollar question—literally. For most of us, the idea of spending house money on a Subaru, no matter how special, seems wild. But for a select group of collectors, the P25 represents the pinnacle of rally-inspired engineering and exclusivity. It’s a blue-chip asset in the world of performance cars.
Still, the recent auction result suggests that the market is volatile. Some buyers may balk at the premium, especially as more examples hit the secondary market. Others see it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a car that will never be repeated.
The big takeaway? The Prodrive P25 isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re chasing lap times or just daydreaming about your ultimate garage, the P25 proves that passion, rarity, and engineering can still move the needle—even in a world obsessed with the next big thing.