Since its inception, Project Black Widow the fastest Subaru in the standing 1/2 mile has continuously pushed the boundaries of Subaru EJ performance. Including claiming the world record for the fastest Subaru in the 1/2 mile. Originally built to set records in the standing half-mile, this 2005 Subaru WRX has continuously evolved into an uncompromising research and development platform. With a proven history, including a staggering 203 mph half-mile run at ShiftS3ctor "Motovicity Neverlift" in 2019 and an 8.75-second quarter-mile at 170 mph, Black Widow has served as the ultimate testbed for extreme Subaru builds.
Now, the latest round of upgrades pushes the platform even further, incorporating state-of-the-art technology and refined engineering to sizing parts for up to a 2000 HP ceiling. The changes focus on turbocharging, engine internals, fuel delivery, nitrous integration, and ignition system enhancements—all in the name of making power more accessible and reliable for the Subaru community.
Last update from almost exactly a year ago can be found here
Turbo System Enhancements
The latest iteration of Black Widow features a turbo system upgrade to maximize efficiency and power delivery. The build now utilizes a Precision Turbo NexGen Sportsman 8385 1700hp turbocharger while retaining the ETS V2 MaxFlow rotated turbo kit, improving spool efficiency and top-end power delivery, ensuring optimal transient response for both drag racing and high-speed roll racing applications. This turbo selection was made to improve both top-end horsepower and transient response, critical for both drag racing and high-speed roll racing applications.
Engine Evolution: The Next-Gen PREracing ProDrag Powerplant
At the heart of Black Widow is the latest evolution of the PREracing ProDrag engine, an R&D powerhouse pushing the limits of what Subaru’s EJ-series platform can handle. As the testbed for PREracing’s ongoing development, this engine incorporates a number of groundbreaking advancements:
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A newly developed closed-decking process utilizing custom ductile iron sleeves and an oversized flange to reinforce the block under extreme boost pressures.
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Extreme-duty pinned mains with a stud-converted case, enhancing crankshaft and mainline stability.
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Callies Ultra Enforcer +4mm long connecting rods with ARP CA625 rod bolts for unmatched strength.
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Billet crankshaft destroked to 2.35L, optimizing high-rpm reliability and power delivery.
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Manley Extreme Duty high-compression pistons with tool steel wrist pins to withstand extreme cylinder pressures.
Cylinder Head Technology: Airflow Meets Durability
Our cylinder head technology has also received a major overhaul, ensuring the high-revving EJ platform remains stable under extreme loads. The latest modifications include:
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Brand-new JDM T20 castings with an extreme port job to maximize airflow.
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Kelford 199E Drag Racing camshafts, designed for high-lift, high-duration powerband performance.
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1/2-inch CA625+ Pro Series head studs to keep the head clamped under extreme boost pressures.
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In-house developed PREracing reinforced stud inserts to provide additional durability.
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Proprietary stainless steel O-rings for superior head sealing.
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Reinforced deck doweling with additional dowel inserts to enhance head-to-block rigidity.
Fuel System: Designed for Methanol and up to 2000 HP
Feeding an engine of this magnitude requires a fuel system capable of delivering immense flow rates while maintaining precision control. The new system is fully optimized for methanol fuel, to support up to 2000 HP. Key updates include:
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Aeromotive 12 GPM mechanical belt-driven fuel pump, replacing the previous 6 GPM unit for double the flow capacity.
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Eight Fuel Injector Clinic (FIC) 2150cc/min injectors operating at 90 PSI base fuel pressure, effectively delivering up to 26,000cc/min of fuel flow—sufficient to support extreme horsepower levels.
Ignition System: Maximizing Spark Energy
With extreme boost and fuel demands, a robust ignition system is critical to maintaining combustion efficiency and avoiding misfires. The latest upgrades include:
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M&W Pro-Drag4 500 high-output CDI ignition system, delivering ultra-powerful and consistent spark energy.
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M&W high-output CDI ignition coils, ensuring proper ignition performance at extreme cylinder pressures.
Nitrous System: Direct Port Injection for Instant Power
To supplement the extreme power output and provide additional tuning flexibility, Black Widow now incorporates a direct port nitrous oxide injection system from Nitrous Outlet. This system is designed as a dry shot, meaning all fuel delivery is controlled through the Haltech engine management system, delivering nitrous oxide without additional fuel, relying on the Haltech engine management system for precise fuel control and optimized combustion.
The Path to the Top
With these upgrades, Project Black Widow is already producing 1400+ WHP with more testing on the horizon. Every new component, refinement, and upgrade directly translates into the development of more powerful and reliable solutions for customer builds.
The philosophy behind Black Widow remains unchanged: We push the limits, so our customers don’t have to. Through relentless R&D, extreme testing, and continuous innovation, this project serves as the ultimate proving ground for what’s possible within the Subaru community.
Stay tuned as we continue pushing past the limits of what was once thought possible. At PREracing, Faster is Better!
2025 Event Plans:
- Portland Oregon International Auto Show - Feb 22-25
- Back onto the dyno for more r&d
- More drag strip testing
- Half-Mile Racing with ShiftS3ctor if time allows. (Abilene, TX in October Maybe?)
- Various other local events and shows
