2001 was a game-changing year for the automotive aftermarket industry.  Not only did “The Fast and the Furious” change the face of the import scene, but Subaru also released the “bugeye” WRX in March 2001 as a 2002 model.

Among the first recipients of the first generation USDM WRX was Armin H. Ausejo.  Going into his final undergraduate quarter at the University of Washington, Armin came home one day to see a sparkling blue WRX sitting in the driveway as an early graduation present.  This car would be the start of a new road full of twists and turns in Armin’s life, which would ultimately help turn Armin into the person he is today.  Not only did it create a strong Subaru enthusiast, but it also led Armin into his passion for photography, working in the aftermarket industry, and eventually his work here at NWMotiv.

NWMotiv: Sup dude, how do you feel that we’re using your car for a feature even though you’re on our staff?

Armin: Sup man.  I don’t mind it so much, since it just seems to work out given all the factors involved.

NWMotiv: Might as well get it out of the way, we’re not using it because we’re biased, but that we’re also featuring your team, Project One right?

Armin: Yep, exactly…sure makes a lot of sense to me!

NWMotiv: Moving on. What got you into cars?

Armin: My brother pretty much got me into cars when I was younger.  He was a big Mustang guy, and even bought a 1990 Mustang GT as his first car.  I thought it was da shit back then, and have been into cars ever since.

NWMotiv: What was your first car?

Armin: My first car was actually a 1995 Subaru Legacy Wagon…hand-me-down from my dad.  I drove it all through high school and pretty much all of college too.

NWMotiv: We’re guessing this is what kick started your passion for Subaru’s?

Armin: Yeah, it totally did.  The car was good in just about every way except that it wasn’t very fast…but that didn’t stop me from trying to race my friend’s Civic Si all the time.

NWMotiv: Does the WRX see much action?

Armin: These days, not so much.  It’s pretty much the show car, so I don’t take it out very much.  Plus, cops have gotten pretty strict on exhausts these days, so I try to avoid exhaust tickets if I can.

NWMotiv: What do you drive in between shows?

Armin: In between shows, I drive a 2002 BMW M3, and for awhile I also had a 2008 STI that I drove as World One’s shop car.

NWMotiv: Sounds like a nice set up. Planning on building a new car someday?

Armin: Yeah, the M3′s starting to show its age, so I’ve actually been looking at other cars lately.  I don’t think I’ll be modding it too much though, definitely not like with the bugeye.

NWMotiv: Will we see the Bugeye on Ebay at some point?

Armin: I’ve thought about it, but I have too strong of an emotional attachment with the car.  It’s been through a lot and it’s been a huge part of my life for so long, so I’d like to keep it as long as I can.  If I was ever offered an absurd about of money, I’d probably let it go though.

NWMotiv: Given the economy, we don’t blame you, any shout outs or thank you’s?

Armin: I’ve gotta say a big thanks to my cousin Wence, first and foremost.  He’s been with me through it all with the car, and I honestly feel that the car is half his in a lot of ways.  Big props go to everyone in Project One for always being there and being the best group of car enthusiasts to be around.  Finally, I’d like to thank everyone from ClubWRX, World One Performance, Team Mospeed, Team Menace, and all of the friends I’ve made along the way.

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