The Impreza STI version, which is based on the WRC model, has been mass-produced up till now; but on the other hand, there has also been a more exclusive, high-performance limited edition machine. The epoch-making Impreza 22B STI version, which was the WRC Manufacturer's champion car for the three years between 1995 and 1997, is the most exclusive of these limited edition versions of the eponymous Impreza. This version of the car features a very wide 'blister fender', similar to that used on its sister World Rally car. As soon as the car was released in March 1998, the orders came flooding in, and it was immediately sold out. The purpose of making this car was to strengthen STI's brand image. The idea was for this car to take the first step in leading the entire SUBARU line. They continued working toward this same aim of strengthening the brand image with the following models, including the Impreza S201, which went on sale in the latter half of the GC8 era. After the year 2000, where there was a full model change, there were limited edition models such as the "S202" , "S203" , and "S204" - based on the GDB-type Impreza premium sports sedan. The foremost and premium limited edition model of the Impreza made by STI was the '22B'; built to commemorate the three consecutive WRC titles earned by the Impreza. The 400 very limited edition machines sold out in a matter of days, but since they were completely hand made, took 5 months to manufacture.