Subaru Legacy (1989 - 1998)
BY JONATHAN CROUCH
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Ever-so slightly unusual looks, eccentric touches like Subaru's 'hill-holder' device (makes hill starts easier for those who never got the hang of a normal handbrake), superb quality and great reliability. Most will buy these cars for their all-weather transmission. The fact that a Subaru doesn't look like a four-wheel-drive is exactly why many people buy them. The Legacy has always been a favourite of the dale-dwelling doctor-on-call, so if you can find a one-owner country car, all the better. You might only need the all-wheel drive a few days a year, but, like having air conditioning in a heat wave, you'll never be without it again.
The first generation cars vary from next to nothing to as much as £3,000 for the last of the turbo estates and are best priced model by model. The newer-shape second-generation cars start from £2,000. A 97P-reg four-wheel drive GX 2.2 Estate will be in the region of £3,500.
Add about £200 for an automatic. If you'd prefer a cheaper two-litre saloon, a 97P-reg four-wheel drive GLS will set you back roughly £3,300. A 98R-plater will be about £3,600.
Estates sell on most easily. The flat-four engine has existed in one form or another for many years now. That's good news, as it's well proven and has had many updates over the years so don't be put off a Legacy just because it's a bit different under the bonnet. Gearboxes are equally well-proven but the turbo cars may have worn synchromesh so check the car when the engine and gearbox are still cold, preferably, for a graunch-free change (warm oil will disguise a worn gearbox). Corrosion is notable by its absence, as are electronic gremlins. Japanese reliability is second to none and the Legacy is typical.
Do check the driveshaft 'boots' for wear on the more powerful cars - cornering on full lock will have them making awful noises if damaged.
(Based on a Legacy 2.0 GLS and exclusive of VAT) A clutch assembly will set you back about £200 and a new exhaust about £150 excluding catalyst. Front shock absorbers are close to £130 each. An exchange alternator comes in at around £300 and an exchange starter motor at around £150.
A new radiator is about £215. Replacement door mirrors are around the £150 mark and a headlamp about £140.
Much like many other Japanese cars, though, to be fair, a bit more characterful than, say, a Toyota Carina or Mitsubishi Carisma. Safe handling with a bit of body roll through the bends, though altogether a good handling and comfortably riding car. The turbos and 4 Cams are much better and not too rally-like either the ride is firm but not overly so.
An intelligently designed car with a couple of nicely odd touches to endear you to it. The four-wheel drive models, especially estates, have an almost cult-like following among new and used buyers and it's not hard to see why.
