1987 Subaru GL review from North America

Boots and CV, not much else gone wrong with it. Really a great car. 3 sets of timing belts, 250 to replace each, one radiator, and a few other things. It is quite an amazing car really, I would buy one again if they only made the GL wagon and sold it for 11,000 or so bucks. I would buy two actually. But 28000 for the outback, TOO much money.

Quite a few things, but not major. First month I owned it I put 5K on it, back in 1987. Had an air hose collapse, was covered on a recall, cost me towing (get AAA). Got it brand new for 11,800 including 5 year 100,000 extended warranty (whichever came first, the 100k came first ;O). Never rebuilt, change oil/filter/air at 3000 religiously, and glad I have. boots went out at l00,000 and then again at 200,000. replaced them, expensive, but worth it. Suspension I have replaced two times, mostly out of just wanting a better ride, and was worht it. Total expense has been about 4500 bucks over 14 years, and about 1000 in minor stuff and upkeep. Insurance is dirt cheap on them now, and the thing keeps on going, I have a front engine seal a bit drippy, but not bad, sweats oil, lose about 1/2 quart per 2000 miles. Not bad for mileage and such. I have hit 4 dear and 3 elk in it, all at fairly low speed, no major damage to the car, quite amazing, all in snow in the mtns of colorado. I also have been hit once at slow speed in the frton from a guy backing out of his driveway, didn't even bother to get it fixed, or file a insurance claim (could have, and wished I had now, but what the heck), and have even lived in the sucker for over a year, sleeping in it while on the road traveling the country. With back seats down, sleeping at an angle for a 5'9" guy works pretty well, just keep the windows down so moisture doesn't build up during the night. I have slept in it during -30 deg weather in Canada, and also in 'hot' weather of 60-70 in the US, it is a champ. I also have traveled and slept in it at sea level, and at 11,000+ feet, getting up and down dirt roads that some jeeps couldn't make (driver is experienced so that has something to do with it I guess). In all, just an amazing car, and I have to say it has been fun to own. 210k miles original owner, take care of it well, and it does take care of me.