Produced from 2000 to 2007, the GDB carried the WRX STI formula through three distinct facelifts, each with its own devoted following. Like the Evo VII–IX, the GDB's age range means eligibility varies significantly by country — worth reading closely before you assume you're stuck waiting.
Overview
"Bugeye" cars (2000–02) introduced the GDB with its distinctive round headlights; "Blobeye" (2002–03) brought a controversial but short-lived facelift; "Hawkeye" (2003–07) settled into the most refined and longest-running version of the GDB, adding a wider track and, on Spec C models, significant weight reduction for motorsport use. Every GDB STI runs a 2.0L turbocharged EJ20 through a 6-speed manual and full-time symmetrical all-wheel drive, with factory output around 280PS under Japan's power-cap era, later rising once the agreement lapsed.
Bugeye / Blobeye / Hawkeye
Full-equipment, 6-speed manual AWD — the core of the GDB market across all three facelifts.
Lightweight Special
Stripped equipment and reduced weight for a sharper, more motorsport-focused GDB — the trim enthusiasts specifically seek out.
Auction Pricing
GDB pricing spans roughly ¥1,000,000 for higher-mileage early Bugeye cars up to ¥3,500,000+ for clean, low-kilometre later Hawkeye-generation STIs. Spec C and other factory-lightweight editions command a premium over standard trims, and condition/mileage matter more to price than facelift generation alone.
What to Check
Same core checks as the GC8 — turbo condition, boost control, and rust in known weak points, though the GDB's newer construction generally holds up better. Given how common tuning is on this platform, verifying engine and drivetrain modification history is the priority; we check exactly this during inspection before you commit to a bid.
Import Eligibility
Because GDB production runs to 2007, most of the range hasn't reached the age-based 25-year threshold yet — but as with the Evo VII–IX, that doesn't mean every market makes you wait.
SEVS-Eligible Now
The GDB is listed on the SEVS Performance Criterion register, meaning eligible builds can be imported now regardless of age. We'll confirm your exact build against the current register.
Mostly Not Yet
No SEVS-style pathway in the US — only early Bugeye cars built before around August 2001 currently clear the federal 25-year exemption. The rest clears progressively through 2027–2032. See our Import page.
MOT Only
No age-based import ban and every GDB is now past the 10-year IVA threshold — a standard MOT is all that's needed, available now regardless of build date.
FAQ
Can I import a Hawkeye-generation GDB to Australia now?
In most cases yes, via the SEVS register rather than waiting on the 25-year rule — but it's build-specific, so we always check your target car against the current register before you commit.
Bugeye, Blobeye or Hawkeye?
Hawkeye is the most refined and widely available today. Bugeye has the strongest nostalgic following and is closest to import-eligible in the US right now given its earlier build dates. Blobeye is the rarest simply because Subaru moved away from the look quickly.