1985 Subaru Leone GL review from Australia and New Zealand
"Reliable quality engineering transport"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Rust is becoming a major problem and will require the car to be scrapped in a couple of years.
The hydraulic valve clearance compensators have been an ongoing problem. This may be a result of their lying on their sides rather than upright as in most engines. They can be changed without removing the rocker shroud if care is taken. They can also be completely stripped and cleaned which usually gets them working again.
The generator packed up up had to be rebuilt at 300000 Ks which isn't bad.
The CV joints have become noisy, but as the rubber boot is intact its still going O.K.
General comments?
Very well engineered motor car, the boxer engine is a gem (part from the compensaters)
Very easy to work on, a head can be removed and replaced in about 4 hours.
The rust problem is a disappointment and would make me think twice about buying another Subaru unless it had been rust treated when new.
Recommended reviews
| Don't judge a car by its looks |
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| This car will not die |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 1988 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 280000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 325000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Falcon |
| Date of Entry | 1st October, 2002 |