1996 Subaru Legacy L Wagon review from North America
"Best do it all in one car for the money for me"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Needed an alternator at 202,000 miles.
Replaced timing belt, water pump and all front seals at 210,000 miles.
Replaced clutch and rear main seal at 210,000 miles as well.
Replaced front brake rotors and pads at 215,000 miles.
Since I bought this car, I replaced the knock sensor, repaired the driver seat and I performed an alignment which really helps the car to hug the road.
But these (besides the alternator) are mostly maintenance items just to make sure the car will keep going good for quite some time.
General comments?
In my opinion, Subaru has the best cruise control of the world; very easy to use and quick in its response.
The former owner of the car had installed KYB shocks, which very much improved the handling of my Suby.
Interior is simple but good.
The seats are firm but comfortable.
I really like the frameless windows.
The AWD is unbeaten in bad weather and tricky road conditions.
The 2.2 is still very powerful, relaxing to drive and very smooth for an H4 engine.
I installed 16" wheels with performance tires, which look good and improve the handling and in all the cars practicality. You can even take it out on the track and scare some sports car drivers.
If the dealer prices are too much for you, you should learn how to do it yourself, because the Subaru is very simple in its design and easy to work on.
Recommended reviews
| Solid AWD car, but requires periodic maintaince |
|
| The most useful, reliable, fun-to-drive, yet boring to own car I can imagine |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2L N/A Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 200162 miles |
| Most recent distance | 222242 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 4th December, 2008 |