Auto Enthusiast Swaps Ferrari V8 Into Subaru WRX STI Rally Car, Rallying Ensues
Professional race car driver Sam Albert stumbled upon a salvaged Ferrari California 4.3L V8 in Michigan and decided to swap it into a Subaru WRX STI rally car after having the engine shipped to Oregon-based Primitive Enterprises. There’s no word on any engine modifications, but the the F136 IB engine makes 454 hp and 358 lb-ft of torque from the factory.
Albert performed the swap single-handedly, but there were a few issues that needed to be addressed, such as designing a custom flywheel as well as adapter plate before it could be mated to the WRX’s six-speed sequential manual transmission. Since the F136 IB engine is naturally aspirated, the engine is less complex compared to the STI’s turbocharged 2.5L flat-four, making it technically more reliable, complete with a menacing exhaust note.