So, you're thinking about turning your Subaru into a track weapon, huh? Or maybe you're just curious about what it takes to get your current Subaru ready for some serious fun. Either way, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the world of Subaru track cars and, yes, even the importance of those little things we often take for granted – the keys!

Building Your Subaru Track Beast

When it comes to Subaru track cars, the possibilities are endless. But where do you even begin? Well, first, you need to decide what you want to achieve. Are you aiming for all-out speed, consistent lap times, or just a weekend warrior looking to have some fun? Your goals will dictate the modifications you make.

• The Foundation: Not all Subarus are created equal when it comes to track duty. The WRX and WRX STI are naturally popular choices due to their turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive, and readily available aftermarket support. However, even a humble BRZ can be transformed into a surprisingly capable track car with the right modifications. Older Impreza models can also be great platforms, especially if you're on a budget.
• Power Upgrades: Let's face it, more power is always tempting! But before you go slapping on the biggest turbo you can find, consider a balanced approach. Start with basic bolt-ons like an intake, exhaust, and a tune. These can significantly improve performance without sacrificing reliability. From there, you can explore more aggressive options like upgraded turbochargers, fuel injectors, and engine management systems. Remember, proper tuning is crucial to ensure your engine runs safely and efficiently with any modifications.
• Suspension Overhaul: This is where things get serious. The stock suspension on most Subarus is designed for comfortable street driving, not carving corners on a racetrack. Upgrading to a set of coilovers is a must for serious track use. Coilovers allow you to adjust ride height, damping, and even camber, giving you precise control over your car's handling. Stiffer sway bars are another essential upgrade, reducing body roll and improving cornering stability. Don't forget about bushings! Replacing the soft rubber bushings with polyurethane or spherical bearings will further tighten up the suspension and improve responsiveness.
• Brake Upgrade: You'll quickly discover the limitations of your stock brakes when pushing your Subaru on the track. Upgrading to larger rotors, performance brake pads, and stainless steel brake lines is essential for consistent braking performance and fade resistance. Consider adding brake cooling ducts to further improve brake performance, especially if you're running longer sessions. And don't forget about brake fluid! Switching to a high-temperature brake fluid is a must to prevent brake fade under heavy use.
• Safety First: Before you even think about hitting the track, make sure your car is equipped with the necessary safety equipment. A roll cage or roll bar is crucial for protecting you in the event of a rollover. Racing seats and harnesses will keep you securely in place during hard cornering and provide added protection. A fire extinguisher is another essential piece of safety gear. And of course, always wear a helmet and proper racing attire.

Don't Forget the Keys!

Okay, so maybe the keys aren't the most glamorous part of building a track car, but they're pretty darn important, right? Imagine spending months (or even years!) building your dream Subaru track machine, only to realize you can't find the keys on race day. Talk about a nightmare! Here's why those little pieces of metal (or plastic, depending on your Subaru) deserve some attention.

• Key Organization: Keep your track car keys separate from your daily driver keys. This will prevent confusion and ensure you always know where they are. Consider a dedicated keychain or lanyard for your track car keys. Labeling them clearly is also a good idea.
• Spare Key: This is a must! Losing your only set of keys at the track can ruin your entire weekend. Keep a spare set of keys in a safe and easily accessible location, like your tow vehicle or toolbox. Better yet, give a spare key to a trusted friend or family member who can bring it to you in case of emergency.
• Key Programming: If you're making significant modifications to your Subaru's electrical system, you may need to reprogram your keys. For example, if you're swapping in a different ECU or adding a standalone engine management system, you'll need to ensure that your keys are properly recognized by the new system. Consult with a qualified technician to handle key programming.
• Security: Track cars are often targeted by thieves, so it's important to take steps to protect your investment. Consider installing an aftermarket alarm system with GPS tracking capabilities. A kill switch can also be a deterrent, preventing the car from being started without a key. And of course, always park your track car in a secure location.

Choosing the Right Subaru for the Track

Let's delve deeper into the specific Subaru models that shine on the track. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on your budget, goals, and driving style.

Subaru WRX: The Tuner's Delight

The Subaru WRX is a perennial favorite among track enthusiasts, and for good reason. It offers a fantastic blend of performance, affordability, and aftermarket support. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power potential, and the all-wheel-drive system delivers excellent traction. The WRX is also relatively easy to work on, making it a great choice for DIYers.

• Pros: Abundant aftermarket support, readily available parts, relatively affordable, good power potential, all-wheel drive.
• Cons: Can be prone to engine issues if not properly maintained, stock suspension needs significant upgrades for track use, interior can feel a bit dated.

Track Prep Tips for WRX: Focus on upgrading the suspension, brakes, and cooling systems. A good set of coilovers, performance brake pads, and an upgraded radiator are essential. Consider adding an oil cooler to prevent oil starvation under hard cornering. And of course, don't forget about a proper tune to maximize performance and reliability.

Subaru WRX STI: The Ultimate Track Weapon?

The Subaru WRX STI takes the WRX formula and turns it up to eleven. It features a more powerful engine, a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and Brembo brakes. The STI is essentially track-ready right out of the box, but there's always room for improvement.

• Pros: More powerful than the WRX, Brembo brakes, more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, track-ready from the factory.
• Cons: More expensive than the WRX, can be even more prone to engine issues if not properly maintained, stock suspension can still be improved for serious track use.

Track Prep Tips for STI: While the STI is already well-equipped, there are still a few key areas to focus on. Upgrading the suspension with higher-quality coilovers can significantly improve handling. Consider adding a front-mount intercooler to reduce intake temperatures and improve power. And of course, don't forget about a proper tune to maximize performance and reliability.

Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86: The Lightweight Contender

Don't underestimate the Subaru BRZ (or its twin, the Toyota 86). While it may not have the raw power of the WRX or STI, its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, and excellent balance make it a surprisingly capable track car. The BRZ is all about momentum and precision, rewarding smooth driving and cornering technique.

• Pros: Lightweight, excellent balance, rear-wheel drive, affordable, great handling.
• Cons: Lacks the raw power of the WRX or STI, can be challenging to drive at the limit, requires more driver skill to be competitive.

Track Prep Tips for BRZ: Focus on improving the handling and braking performance. A good set of coilovers, performance brake pads, and stickier tires are essential. Consider adding a limited-slip differential to improve traction. And while power upgrades are tempting, focus on improving the car's balance and handling first.

Mastering the Track: Tips for Success

Building a great track car is only half the battle. You also need to develop the skills and knowledge to drive it effectively. Here are a few tips to help you master the track:

• Start Slow: Don't try to go out and set lap records on your first day. Gradually build up your speed as you become more comfortable with the car and the track. Focus on learning the correct driving lines and braking points.
• Get Instruction: Working with a qualified driving instructor can dramatically accelerate your learning curve. An instructor can provide personalized feedback and help you identify areas for improvement.
• Track Days: Attend track days regularly to hone your skills and get valuable seat time. Track days are a great way to practice in a safe and controlled environment.
• Data Acquisition: Consider using a data acquisition system to analyze your driving performance. Data logging can provide valuable insights into your braking points, cornering speeds, and other key metrics.
• Maintenance is Key: Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your track car running reliably. Check your fluids, brakes, and tires frequently. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from becoming bigger problems.

Conclusion: Your Subaru Track Car Adventure Awaits

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to building your own Subaru track car. From choosing the right model to upgrading the essential components to remembering those all-important keys, we've covered everything you need to know to get started. Remember, building a track car is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process, learn from your mistakes, and most importantly, have fun! Now go out there and unleash your inner racer!