Bjørn and His Subaru WRX STI: Daily Driver with Trackday Power
Location: Kristiansand, Norway
Car: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI
Bjørn from Kristiansand, Norway, isn't just looking for a fast car — he's looking for a car that balances the best of both worlds. His 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is not only his daily driver but also his go-to machine for track days. With the right combination of power and reliability, this WRX STI has transformed into the ultimate dual-purpose car.
Why HCR?
Bjørn first heard about Hard Core Racing through the local ice-driving scene, but what really caught his attention was HCR's job quality. With plans to push his STI’s performance while maintaining the reliability needed for daily use, he turned to HCR for their expertise in engine building.
The Build
The work done on Bjørn’s Subaru has been significant. HCR provided a stage 2 closed deck, double pinned mains, crank line boring, 14mm HCR head studs, Kelford cams, forged internals, fire ring head gaskets, fully ported heads, ensuring that his engine could handle higher power without sacrificing durability. These modifications were designed with one thing in mind: reliable power—a key requirement for anyone looking to enjoy both everyday driving and the excitement of track days.
The Results
The results have been pleasant. With 500 horsepower at the crank and over 400 horsepower above 4000 RPM, this STI delivers the kind of performance that makes it as comfortable on the track as it is on the streets of Kristiansand. It’s the perfect example of a car that doesn’t have to compromise between power and practicality.
Looking Ahead
Bjørn’s project is 95% complete, with only a few final touches left before he considers it finished. As he puts it, “Because I wanted reliable power,” this build has been all about finding that perfect balance between performance and dependability.
A Word from Bjørn
While the communication during the project was sometimes a bit slow, Bjørn would still recommend HCR’s services without hesitation. "Would recommend 100%," he says, as he continues to enjoy the newfound power and reliability in his WRX STI.
