fits model: Wrx, Sti, Impreza. make: Subaru. year: 2005–2007.

( Manufacturer Part Number: 42012SA051 ), ( Fitment Type: Direct Replacement ), ( Color Code: 51e ), ( Type: Fuel Tank ), ( Ipn: 197-59383b ), ( Year: 2006 ), ( Stock : 160601 ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 90 Day ), ( Exterior Color: Orange )
The **Subaru 42012SA051 fuel gas tank** is a high-performance, factory-specification component designed exclusively for the **2005 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI**, ensuring seamless integration with the vehicle s aggressive driving dynamics and turbocharged engine. Crafted from durable **aluminum alloy**, this tank is engineered to withstand the extreme pressures and temperatures generated by the WRX STI s **2.5L EJ257 turbocharged engine**, which produces up to **300 horsepower** in its stock form. The tank features a **reinforced design** with precision-welded seams and a **high-flow fuel pickup system**, optimized to deliver a consistent and uninterrupted fuel supply to the engine, even under heavy acceleration or aggressive cornering. Its **compact yet robust construction** allows for a snug fit within the WRX STI s tight engine bay, minimizing fuel sloshing and maximizing efficiency critical for maintaining peak performance in both street driving and track applications. Additionally, this tank is compatible with **high-octane racing fuels** and **ethanol blends**, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking to push their STI s limits while ensuring reliability. Whether used in stock form or as part of a modified setup, the **42012SA051 fuel tank** exemplifies Subaru s commitment to performance, durability, and precision engineering, delivering both functionality and a touch of heritage for the dedicated WRX STI owner.
Buying a 2005-2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI with a fuel gas tank (instead of the standard E85-capable tank) has distinct advantages and disadvantages, depending on your priorities, budget, and intended use. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of Buying a 2005-2007 WRX STI with a Gas Tank**
1. **Simpler Fueling Infrastructure**
The standard E85-capable tank requires E85 (ethanol blend) or a mix of gasoline and ethanol, which may not always be readily available or consistent in quality. A gas-only tank eliminates this issue, allowing you to fill up at any standard gasoline station without worrying about fuel availability or compatibility. This is particularly useful if you travel frequently or live in an area with limited E85 access.
2. **Potential Performance Benefits (Under Certain Conditions)**
Ethanol has a higher octane rating than regular gasoline, which can help prevent engine knocking in high-performance applications. However, ethanol also has a lower energy density and can cause issues like fuel system corrosion or reduced power if not properly maintained. A gas-only tank avoids these potential downsides, though the WRX STI s stock engine is already tuned for E85, so performance may not see a significant boost without modifications.
3. **Lower Risk of Fuel System Issues**
Ethanol can be corrosive to certain metals and rubber components in fuel systems over time. A gas-only tank reduces the risk of long-term damage to fuel lines, injectors, and the fuel pump, though modern WRX STIs are generally robust. If the car has a history of ethanol-related problems (e.g., leaking lines, injector fouling), a gas tank could be a practical solution.
4. **Easier to Sell or Trade In**
Some buyers or dealerships may prefer a gas-only WRX STI because it s more universally appealing. While E85-capable WRX STIs are desirable for their flexibility, not everyone wants to deal with ethanol fueling. A gas tank could make the car more attractive to a broader audience, potentially increasing resale value or trade-in offers.
5. **No Need for E85 Conversion or Modifications**
If the car already has a gas tank, you avoid the hassle and cost of converting an E85-capable WRX STI to run on gasoline. This includes avoiding potential modifications to the fuel system, ECU reprogramming, or the need to switch between fuels.
6. **Potential Cost Savings on Fuel**
While ethanol blends (E85) are often cheaper per gallon than premium gasoline, the lower energy content means you ll burn more of it for the same distance. In some regions, gasoline may be the more economical option, especially if E85 stations are far away or fuel quality is inconsistent.
7. **Avoiding Ethanol-Related Drivability Issues**
Ethanol can cause issues like "ethanol fade" (reduced power under hard acceleration due to vaporization), though this is less common in modern turbocharged engines like the WRX STI s FA20. However, if the car has a history of poor performance or rough idling when running E85, a gas tank could resolve these problems without further tuning.
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### **Cons of Buying a 2005-2007 WRX STI with a Gas Tank**
1. **Limited Flexibility for Future Modifications**
The WRX STI s E85 capability is a selling point for many enthusiasts, as it allows for more tuning flexibility (e.g., higher boost, more power) without risking detonation. A gas-only tank means you re locked into running premium gasoline, which may limit your ability to push the engine harder without additional modifications (e.g., an ECU tune for higher octane gasoline).
2. **Potential Power Loss Compared to E85**
While the difference is subtle, ethanol has a higher octane rating than premium gasoline, which can allow for slightly higher boost pressures or more aggressive tuning. A gas-only setup may not realize the full potential power of the engine unless you invest in an ECU tune or other modifications to compensate for the lower octane.
3. **Higher Risk of Detonation at High Boost**
The FA20 engine in the WRX STI is tuned for E85, which has a higher resistance to knocking. Running premium gasoline (typically 91-93 octane) at high boost levels (especially with aftermarket tuning) increases the risk of detonation, which can damage the engine over time. This risk is mitigated by proper tuning but adds complexity.
4. **Potential for Reduced Fuel Economy**
While ethanol blends are less energy-dense, premium gasoline is also not as efficient as E85 in some cases. However, the difference is usually minimal unless the car is heavily modified. The bigger concern is that a gas-only WRX STI may not benefit from the slight efficiency gains that E85 can offer in stock form.
5. **Higher Cost of Fuel in Some Regions**
While gasoline prices vary by location, E85 is often cheaper per gallon than premium gasoline in many areas. If you frequently fill up, the cost savings from E85 could add up over time, making a gas-only tank less economical.
6. **Potential for Lower Resale Value Among Enthusiasts**
The E85-capable WRX STI is a sought-after configuration among tuners and drift enthusiasts. A gas-only version may appeal less to this crowd, potentially reducing its long-term resale value or making it harder to find a buyer who appreciates the car s original intent.
7. **No Future-Proofing for Tuning**
If you plan to modify the car (e.g., adding a turbo, upgrading the fuel system, or increasing boost), an E85-capable setup provides a safety net. Ethanol s higher octane allows for more aggressive tuning before detonation becomes an issue. A gas-only tank requires careful tuning to avoid knocking, which can be more challenging and costly.
8. **Potential for Inconsistent Performance**
If the car has a history of running poorly on E85 (e.g., due to fuel system issues or a faulty ECU), switching to gasoline might resolve those problems. However, if the car was originally intended to run on E85, a gas-only tank could mean it s not running at its intended specification, potentially affecting performance and reliability.
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### **Conclusion**
Buying a 2005-2007 WRX STI with a gas tank is a practical choice if you prioritize simplicity, fuel availability, and avoiding potential ethanol-related issues. It s ideal for drivers who want a hassle-free experience, don t plan to heavily modify the car, or live in an area where E85 is unreliable or expensive. The gas-only setup also makes the car more universally appealing, which could be beneficial if you plan to sell it in the future.
However, if you re an enthusiast who values tuning potential, fuel flexibility, or the ability to push the engine harder, an E85-capable WRX STI is the better choice. The E85 setup offers more flexibility for modifications, better fuel economy in some cases, and a higher resale value among performance-oriented buyers. If you do opt for a gas-only tank, be prepared to invest in an ECU tune or other modifications if you plan to increase power significantly.
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### **Recommendation**
- **Buy the gas-only WRX STI if:**- You want a no-fuss, reliable daily driver with minimal fueling concerns.
- You live in an area with poor E85 availability or inconsistent fuel quality.
- You don t plan to modify the car aggressively and want to avoid the hassle of ethanol-related issues.
- You prioritize resale value among non-enthusiast buyers or in markets where gas-only cars are more desirable.
- **Buy the E85-capable WRX STI if:**- You re an enthusiast who plans to tune the car or push it harder in the future.
- You want the flexibility to use ethanol blends for better fuel economy or higher octane benefits.
- You live in a region where E85 is widely available and affordable.
- You value the car s original intent and potential for modifications, even if you don t plan to do them immediately.
If you re torn between the two, consider whether the convenience of a gas tank outweighs the long-term benefits of E85 flexibility. For most enthusiasts, the E85-capable WRX STI is the better choice, but the gas-only version can be a solid alternative if your priorities align with its limitations. Always thoroughly inspect the car s fuel system, engine condition, and maintenance history before purchasing, regardless of its fuel type.
The fuel tank is designed for the STI model and has a 90-day manufacturer warranty. It is a direct replacement part with manufacturer number of 42012SA051 and production date 10/05. The product is a fuel gas tank with filet neck and evap canister for 2005 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI.