🚗 Build Breakdown: Antonio’s 2006 Subaru STI 🚗
Antonio’s Subaru journey began in 2014 with a $1,500 bug-eye WRX project, a humble start that would lead to years of challenges, triumphs, and hard-earned lessons. After selling his WRX, life threw him a curveball, but his love for Subarus never wavered. In 2018, he picked up a side-swiped 2006 STI from Copart, and that’s where the real story began.
What followed was a true test of persistence: engine failures, a year-long shop disaster, and pandemic-related delays that would have discouraged most. But Antonio wasn’t ready to give up. With determination and the help of Outfront Motorsports, who provided him with a solid long block, Antonio decided to take matters into his own hands. Armed with the power of YouTube tutorials and a relentless drive, he assembled the engine and brought his dream car to life. Along the way, he transformed not only his STI but also his skills as a car builder.
Antonio’s 2006 Subaru STI is more than just a project—it’s a statement. A car that represents his journey, his dedication, and his ability to turn setbacks into triumphs. Here's a breakdown of the mods that make this STI truly one of a kind.
Favorite Mods
🔷 JDM R205 Seats
The JDM R205 seats are a rare and highly coveted interior mod that adds a touch of exclusivity to Antonio’s build. These seats are not only stylish but also functional, offering superior comfort and support during spirited driving. They’re a perfect match for the rest of the car’s aggressive aesthetic, providing a genuine JDM feel that enhances the overall driving experience.
🔷 Custom 1-of-1 Taillights
One of the standout features of Antonio’s STI is his custom 1-of-1 taillights. These are truly unique, giving the car a distinctive rear-end look that sets it apart from other STIs. Antonio’s attention to detail shines through in this custom mod, showcasing his creativity and his desire to make his build stand out in a sea of similar vehicles.
🔷 Syms Half Wing
For the rear, Antonio added a Syms half wing—a sleek and functional mod that helps improve aerodynamics while also contributing to the car’s aggressive stance. The half wing is a perfect balance of form and function, giving the car a more performance-oriented look without going overboard.
🔷 Custom Carbon Front Lip
The custom carbon front lip is another key feature of Antonio’s build. It not only adds a touch of visual appeal but also improves the car’s aerodynamics, helping to direct airflow for better stability at higher speeds. The carbon fiber construction gives the car a more aggressive edge, and it’s a perfect complement to the rest of the build.
🔷 Prova Carbon Air Duct
To further improve airflow, Antonio installed a Prova carbon air duct. This piece not only looks fantastic but also serves a functional purpose, helping to increase the intake efficiency and overall engine performance. It’s another example of Antonio’s attention to detail, blending form and function seamlessly.
Current Setup Highlights
Engine:
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Outfront Motorsports Long Block
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FP Green Turbo
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ID1300 Injectors
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Cobb Flex Fuel
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ACT Clutch
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Tuned by Church Automotive
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457whp on E60
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348whp on 91
The heart of Antonio’s build is the Outfront Motorsports long block, paired with an FP Green turbo and ID1300 injectors to deliver impressive performance. The Cobb Flex Fuel system ensures that the car can run on different fuel types, making it adaptable for both street and track. With Church Automotive tuning the car, Antonio’s STI puts down 457whp on E60 and 348whp on 91—an impressive mix of power and reliability.
Exterior:
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WORK Meister S1 Wheels
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Seibon Carbon Accents
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Voltex Side Skirts
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HKS Kansai Rear Diffuser
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Custom Carbon Details
The exterior of Antonio’s STI is a showcase of performance and style. The WORK Meister S1 wheels give the car a classic yet aggressive look, while the Seibon carbon accents add a touch of luxury and lightweight performance. The Voltex side skirts and HKS Kansai rear diffuser are functional pieces that help improve the car’s aerodynamics, while custom carbon details throughout the exterior make Antonio’s STI a unique standout.
Suspension:
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Airlift 3P Management
To handle the power and provide a comfortable ride, Antonio has equipped his STI with Airlift 3P management, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved handling performance. This suspension setup ensures that the car is not only performance-ready but also capable of delivering a smooth, comfortable ride when needed.
Interior:
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JDM GRB R205 Seats
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Custom Suede and Carbon Accents
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Defi Gauges
Inside the cabin, Antonio has outfitted his STI with JDM GRB R205 seats, offering a combination of comfort and support for both street and track use. The interior also features custom suede and carbon accents, adding a touch of luxury while maintaining a sporty, performance-focused feel. The Defi gauges give Antonio the crucial performance data he needs, enhancing both the look and functionality of the cockpit.
Antonio’s Take on the Build:
“This build has been a rollercoaster—engine failures, shop disasters, and setbacks during the pandemic, but I never gave up. With the help of Outfront Motorsports and a lot of YouTube, I built this car myself. It’s been a labor of love, and I’m proud of what it’s become. It’s not just a car—it’s a part of me.”
Antonio’s 2006 STI is more than just a collection of parts; it’s a reflection of his journey, his persistence, and his passion for Subaru. What started as a dream has become a reality, and every modification tells the story of his dedication. From building the engine himself to sourcing rare JDM parts, Antonio’s STI is a car that’s uniquely his, with plenty of room for future growth.
What’s Next?
Antonio plans to continue his journey by performing a full restoration of the car, focusing on a cleaner engine bay setup and potentially going with a rotated turbo setup. The work doesn’t stop here—there’s always more to learn, more to improve, and more to do with this ever-evolving build.