Back in 2008, Ken Block and Hoonigan set the internet on fire with the first Gymkhana video featuring the craziest display of precision driving we had ever seen. Throughout the 10 Gymkhana videos Ken has graced us with, he has redefined what is possible with a car and has continued to outdo himself with each heart-pounding video. Now, however, it is time for a new face of Gymkhana, but also a return to the car that started it all: a Subaru WRX STI. Until now little has been said about Travis Pastrana's insane STI, but now Hoonigan's Build Biology series gives us all the up close walk around we've been waiting for.
Pastrana's STI Is Built To Handle Absolutely Anything
Travis Pastrana's STI build was entrusted to Subaru rally legends Vermont SportsCar, and they truly threw everything they had at it. Dan Anctil from Vermont Sportscar (VSC) mentions how they were able to play around with a lot of different ideas that they normally couldn't do because of normal rally competition restrictions.
One of the most exciting parts about Pastrana taking over for Ken Block is we get to see a different driving style. Not saying there is anything wrong with Ken's driving style, but according to Dan, Pastrana had a whole new level of heights he wanted to take the Gymkhana stunts. With Pastrana's high flying past, VSC knew they had to prepare the new hero Subaru for not just tight precision driving, but also for being launched in the air safely.
In order to do this, they fitted the STI with an insane level of aero, some of which is actually intended to help Travis control the car as it soars through the air. They also fit the STI with a ton of technology that helps Travis monitor absolutely every move he makes, including brake pressure, handbrake pressure, wheel speed, and the ability to use the car's antilag system to hold the car at a steady speed before a jump.
The Gymkhana STI's Billet 2.3L Engine Makes 850-HP
As can be expected, the engine and drivetrain of Pastrana's new STI is just as special as the rest of the car. VSC started out with a billet aluminum EJ block stroked out to 2.3 liters and making 850-HP. They pushed the engine back 8 inches from its factory location to help with weight distribution and moved the Sadev 6 speed sequential transmission to the rear-middle of the car.
Travis's Gymkhana video premiers this Tuesday, so be sure to tune in to see this insane car in action at the hands of a true rally madman.
Source: YouTube