Originally Posted by stonejedi

I agree with you about how the 2.5 engine has good torque as it was predominately developed for the American market i.e towing thats why the extra torque came in useful.But Mate how much 2.5 engines do you know to have big BHP like over 600 bhp+?Every proper Subaru performance model "type/spec"limited edition use the EJ 2.0 litre power plant..I doubt thats by mistake.According to a engine Specialist Subaru used a casting process on the 2.5-L that weakened the piston ringlands (which separate the piston rings), while the PCV system causes crankcase oil vapors to enter the combustion chamber. The condition allegedly leads to a reduction of the fuel/air octane mixture and places more of a burden on the pistons, which can fracture and destroy the engine.

Impreza WRX and WRX STI drivers said that their cars suddenly lose power, stall or suffer engine failure as internal parts overheat and seize. In addition oil lubrication to the bearings and crankshafts cause similar 2.5-L engine failures...I have nothing more to add...Peace!.SJ.

Originally Posted by Tidgy

600+ i'd be going 2.35 i expect, but lets face it, how many folks ever take it that far? up to 500 they are fine if you build them right, i dont think anyone disputes that.

i've heard all sorts of different things about why a stock 2.5 fails so much, head lift, crap pistons, crap headgaskets, poor oil feed, bad map, etc etc etc not all suffer ring land, not all suffer head gasket, some get both. simply put i dont think its one thing wrong, its a combination.

Originally Posted by the shreksta

has yours got a closed deck tidgy?
i dont think ive ever heard of a built 2.5 with a closed deck failing

Originally Posted by Tidgy

yeah mines closed deck, full shebang basicly, rods, pistons, closed deck, uprated headstuds, uprated valves and springs etc etc, built as a 500bhp daily

Originally Posted by Tidgy

yeah mines closed deck, full shebang basicly, rods, pistons, closed deck, uprated headstuds, uprated valves and springs etc etc, built as a 500bhp daily

Originally Posted by stonejedi

Thats why you don't have any problem mate...Built properly as Subaru should of!.SJ.

Originally Posted by Simon Greenwich

I sold my version 2 (96) Jap import, it was a WRX STI ... (I do miss it)

Now I am looking to buy another Impreza, but thinking of getting something a bit newer, quite like the look of the Hawkeye, seen a few decent looking ones.

But I hear that the 2.5 engine is more prone to head gasket issues, and things like the (internals i.e. pistons) are not as strong, engine more prone to failure.

What are your experiences? What do you recommend in terms of me getting another Impreza?

Thanks