1997 Subaru Legacy GTB 2.0 Twin Ts

Summary:

Worst car I have ever owned, avoid

Faults:

CV boots failed.

Fuel pump failed.

Engine mounts replaced.

Wheel bearing replaced.

Coil packs failed.

Engine died completely at 165,000.

General Comments:

I owned a 1991 1st gen Subaru Legacy GT manual before this one, and I loved that car to bits; when it was written off, I was determined to get another Subaru based on my experience with the last one. Big mistake!

This car was an absolute nightmare to own, fixing little things on it was costing a fortune. Everything was premium in the car, from the most expensive fuel pump to oil filled engine mounts. The engine even had to be lifted out of the car in order for the spark plugs to be changed! Insurance was super high, due to the twin turbo, even though it had an alarm installed.

The experience of driving this car was not worth the cost, PERIOD!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 29th December, 2011

31st Dec 2011, 07:26

So you buy a old car, that you probably have no idea on how it was treated. Then you need to replace parts on it, and that's a surprise to you? Then, you know it's a turbo and expect it to have cheaper insurance just because it has an alarm?

Sounds like you just bought a old car and didn't research the history of it, nor thought about its age either.

I can tell you right now, NONE of that is the car or manufacturer's fault.

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1997 Subaru Legacy GTB 2.0 Twin turbo

Summary:

A serious weapon on the open road

Faults:

Head gasket blew at 160,000. Repaired at expense, giving the engine a new lease of life for another 100,000 km.

Air-con works, but has leak in t9 valve (expensive). Not worth fixing considering the mileage.

Occasional suspension bush requiring replacement.

General Comments:

A drivers car on the open road. Advanced driving skills can get great results. Very sluggish around town (under 100km/hr).

Hard ride from the suspension, but handles better than most on open road, particularly during cornering at speed.

Plenty of room inside, well placed interior controls, but not recommended for taller drivers as leg room a bit restricted, especially using the clutch around town.

Fairly heavy on petrol, but that depends on your right foot!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th March, 2009