Former Ken Block Rally Car Hits the Auction Block
2004 Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS built by rally legends Vermont SportsCar is looking for a new home on Bring A Trailer.
The world lost a legend in early 2023 when rally Icon and co-founder of Hoonigan, Ken Block, died in a snowmobile accident. Undoubtedly, his merch and gear was sought after before his passing, but it’s safe to assume that its value has gone through the roof. So, it’s safe to assume this 2004 Subaru Impreza rally car will fetch a hectic final bid during its Bring A Trailer auction.
Make no mistake, this is not a tribute car. This is a true rally car, complete with a full roll cage, HANS restraints, and a fire suppression system. Under the hood, there’s a turbocharged Subaru EJ20 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder powering all four wheels via a KAPS five-speed dog-box manual transmission. It also has front and rear Cusco limited slip differentials and an adjustable center diff like you’d find in an STI. Or, you know, a rally car.
The Modification List is Seemingly Endless
As one might expect, the modifications continue long past what we mentioned above. Let’s break it down a bit more.
A MoTeC M880 ECU handles the engine management. In addition, it’s got a Coralba Giant rally computer, Recaro racing seats, and a set of PIAA driving lights that really complete the rally car look. Of course, the Monster racing livery it’s still wearing gets that point across just fine. If that really doesn’t do it, the vented hood, roof vent, and rear wing should solidify any confusion.
As one might expect, this full-blown race car has a bit of a checkered past. Go figure, right? Obviously, there’s been a handful of on-course incidents in its use as an actual rally car. However, they have since been repaired. Interestingly enough, an insurance company declared this car a total loss in 2005 due to flood damage. That, however, was before Vermont SportsCar gave it the rally conversion treatment.
A Truly Cool Piece of Rally History
The sale includes a build book signed by Alex Gelsomino, Ken Block’s legendary Co-Driver. In addition, the car wears signatures from both Ken Bock himself as well as Travis Pastrana. It also features a Rally America logbook from its time being driven by Mark Fox. However, the seller states that the Block-era logbook is no longer with the car. Ultimately, whether this car can still be used competitively is up in the air. It’ll likely need some modern updates in terms of its safety equipment.
We’ll definitely be keeping an eye on this auction to see how much money it brings in. At the time of writing, it has a high bid of $45,000 with nearly two weeks of bidding left. Undoubtedly, it’s going to bring a pretty hefty number.
Images: Bring A Trailer