I've got an '01 RS2.5 with a stock engine, about 44K miles on it. I'm really getting the itch to do something with this car. My current thinking is to buy a a used WRX engine and ECU and swap it in. However, I'm not sure where to start with this. I've done engine swaps in pre-ECU cars, but never a late model vehicle. I'd like to hear from some that has done this (and I swear I saw a sig where someone swapped in a '03 WRX into their '01 RS2.5). What's going to be involved in this project? Am I looking at wiring harness work? Just an engine and ECU, or am I going to need a drivetrain to go with this? What about suspension work and such for the additional horseypower? Some might say just sell the RS and buy a WRX, but quite honestly, I find the RS2.5 2-door body a bit more sexy than the WRX (at least, one without a fully rally body kit ) Anyone around who's done this? Someone who can offer detailed advice, or tell me I *really* don't want to do this for some valid reason? Thanks, --jc
not sure who it was on here, but we did have a guy with a 2.5 that had an Sti drivetrain in it at the track event couple weeks ago. I am sure he could detail some of this for ya!
well i didnt do the swap myself but i have a 2000 RS with a sti motor and version 6 tranny. You have toi splice the Sti harness into the stock RS harness which takes countless hours, but in the end i know the guy i bought it from thought it was well worth the effort.