Here comes Stephanie
Adalla Allan
Why did you go to this sports car?
I am a speed guy, and I had two options, either a Mitsubishi Evo or a Subaru.
It took me quite a long time to weigh between the two, but my first account with this toy that I nicknamed Stephanie drew a lot of emotions when I stepped on the throttle. It rubbed off all the desires I had for the Evo at that moment.
I felt like I loved it so much. Right from its prominent sound and performance, I could not assume the adrenaline it induced.
How did you get Stephanie?
I spent months looking online and eventually settled for this particular one from Japan. I felt lucky to find it. It is the epitome of sports cars.
Any modification?
I had to replace the engine that came with the car with a new one since it died. I put a rally-spec block; it is a brand new engine block, fully forged, meaning it is more powerful.
I’m currently testing it, and if it responds well, we will move to more power with time.
What do you love about the car?
I am studying in the UK, but during vacations, I come back home and use Stephanie to move about. I love how she is submissive to my command when on the road.
What about the most painful experience with her?
Changing a whole engine was a pain. It was costly and took time – a couple of months. Also, being at the garage and seeing the whole engine removed from the car I treat like a sibling made me feel emotional.
The top speed you have attained with it?
My speedometer read 270 km/h, the fastest speed Steph can hit, as I decided to take a road test to Thika after the new engine block was installed. However, Kenyan roads are not favourable for speeding.
What are its drawbacks?
The biggest challenge is that Subaru STi engines are weak. I have been a victim of an engine blowing out. I have also heard many STi owners complaining about the same issue.
If I were the manufacturer, I would improve on the engine to make it stronger, so that the people can enjoy it. Otherwise, the car is excellent.
Did you know?
The 1954 Subaru 1500 was the first-ever Subaru model manufactured by Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation), only giving 55 horsepower.
The 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine of the car was sourced from the Peugeot 202.
ANDRE STAUSSI
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTING STUDENT
RIDE: SUBARU IMPREZA STI 2012 SALOON
ENGINE: 2.5-LITRE EJ257 TURBO-CHARGED PETROL ENGINE
