1989 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD Specs

OVERVIEW

With a curb weight of 3362 lbs (1525 kg), the Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD has a horizontal opposite 4 cylinder SOHC engine, a Regular gasoline engine EJ18. This engine EJ18 produces a maximum power of 111.5 PS (110 bhp - 82 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 149 Nm (109.9 lb.ft - 15.2 kg.m) at 3200 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the four wheel drive (4WD) with a 4AT gearbox. For stopping power, the Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD braking system includes drum at the rear and V disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 165S on 13 inch rims at the rear and 165S on 13 inch rims at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD has strut rear suspension and strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 24, 2024

Introduction to the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD

The 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD represents a notable chapter in Subaru's automotive history. Produced between February 1989 and April 1990, this versatile wagon was designed to cater to a range of driving needs.

One of the standout features of this Legacy Wagon is its 4WD drivetrain, providing excellent traction and stability, making it suitable for various road conditions. Coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission, this vehicle offered a comfortable and convenient driving experience.

Under the hood, you'll find a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder SOHC engine with the engine code EJ18. This engine, capable of delivering 111.5 PS (110 bhp) of power at 6000 rpm and 149 Nm (109.9 lb.ft) of torque at 3200 rpm, provided the Legacy with ample performance for its time. It ran on regular gasoline, ensuring accessibility and affordability at the pump.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Legacy Wagon measured 460 cm (181.1 inches) in exterior length, 169 cm (66.53 inches) in exterior width, and 147 cm (57.87 inches) in exterior height. Its interior dimensions allowed for a comfortable ride, with an interior length of 182 cm (71.65 inches), interior width of 141.5 cm (55.7 inches), and interior height of 120.5 cm (47.44 inches). The wheelbase stretched to 258 cm (101.57 inches), contributing to stability and spaciousness.

With a curb weight of 1525 kg (3362 lbs) and seating for five passengers across two rows, the Legacy Wagon struck a balance between comfort and utility. The fuel tank capacity of 60 liters (15.8 US gallons or 13.1 UK gallons) provided a reasonable range between fill-ups.

In terms of safety features, this model didn't include modern amenities like airbags or advanced driver assistance systems, but it offered a reliable and sturdy build that was characteristic of Subaru vehicles.

Overall, the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD was a practical and capable vehicle for its time, combining all-wheel drive capability with a spacious interior, making it well-suited for families and individuals looking for a dependable daily driver.

Engine Specifications: Powering the Legacy

The heart of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD lies beneath its hood, where you'll find an engine designed to provide reliable and efficient performance. This model is equipped with a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, SOHC engine identified by the engine code EJ18.

This engine was engineered to offer a balanced combination of power and fuel efficiency. It produced approximately 111.5 PS (110 bhp) of power at 6000 rpm and delivered a peak torque of 149 Nm (109.9 lb.ft) at 3200 rpm. These specifications made the Legacy Wagon a capable performer, suitable for a variety of driving situations, from city commuting to highway cruising.

The EJ18 engine featured a horizontally opposed 4-cylinder design, a hallmark of Subaru's engineering. This configuration, often referred to as a "boxer" engine, contributed to the vehicle's low center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling.

As for the fuel type, the Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD ran on regular gasoline, which was readily available and affordable. This made it a practical choice for daily driving without the need for premium fuel.

While it didn't have some of the advanced engine technologies found in more modern vehicles, such as variable cylinder management or turbocharging, the EJ18 engine was known for its reliability and durability. This engine type was a key component of Subaru's reputation for producing long-lasting vehicles.

In summary, the engine specifications of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD highlighted a well-balanced powerplant that delivered adequate performance for its era while maintaining fuel efficiency and reliability, embodying the qualities that Subaru vehicles are known for.

Dimensions and Sizes: How Big is the Legacy Wagon?

Understanding the dimensions and sizes of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD is key to appreciating its spacious and versatile design.

Starting with its exterior, this Legacy Wagon measures approximately 460 cm (181.1 inches) in length, providing ample space both for passengers and cargo. Its width extends to around 169 cm (66.53 inches), giving it a solid and stable footprint on the road. The height of the vehicle stands at about 147 cm (57.87 inches), striking a balance between aerodynamics and interior space.

These exterior dimensions translate to an overall size of 460x169x147 cm (181.1x66.53x57.87 inches), making it a mid-sized wagon that's well-suited for a variety of purposes, from family transportation to outdoor adventures.

Inside, the Legacy Wagon continues to impress with its generous interior dimensions. The cabin boasts an interior length of approximately 182 cm (71.65 inches), providing ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The interior width measures around 141.5 cm (55.7 inches), ensuring that there's plenty of shoulder room for occupants. The interior height comes in at about 120.5 cm (47.44 inches), contributing to a comfortable and airy feel inside the cabin.

These interior dimensions combine to create an interior size of 182x141.5x120.5 cm (71.65x55.7x47.44 inches), making the Legacy Wagon a spacious and practical choice for families or individuals with diverse cargo needs.

The wheelbase, which measures 258 cm (101.57 inches), plays a significant role in the vehicle's stability and handling characteristics. The front and rear axles have lengths of approximately 147 cm (57.87 inches) and 146 cm (57.48 inches), respectively, contributing to the wagon's balanced weight distribution.

With a ride height of 17 cm (6.69 inches) and a curb weight of 1525 kg (3362 lbs), the Legacy Wagon offers a comfortable and stable ride, whether you're navigating city streets or venturing off the beaten path.

In summary, the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD strikes a harmonious balance between exterior size and interior space. Its dimensions make it a versatile choice for a wide range of driving scenarios, from daily commuting to family vacations.

Fuel Tank Capacity: How Much Can It Hold?

Understanding the fuel tank capacity of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD is essential for gauging its range and fuel efficiency.

This versatile wagon is equipped with a fuel tank that can hold approximately 60 liters (15.8 US gallons or 13.1 UK gallons) of gasoline. This capacity provides a reasonable fuel reserve, allowing for extended drives without frequent refueling stops.

The Legacy Wagon's fuel tank size strikes a balance between capacity and weight, ensuring that the vehicle remains relatively lightweight and efficient. With a fuel tank of this size, drivers can enjoy longer journeys without the inconvenience of frequent stops at the gas station.

Combined with the vehicle's fuel-efficient engine, this fuel tank capacity allows for a practical and hassle-free driving experience. Whether you're using it for daily commuting or embarking on longer road trips, the Legacy Wagon's fuel tank capacity provides the necessary range to meet your driving needs.

Fuel Consumption: Efficiency at Its Best

The 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD is known for its efficiency when it comes to fuel consumption. This model was designed to strike a balance between performance and economy, making it a practical choice for a wide range of drivers.

While specific fuel consumption figures can vary based on driving conditions and individual driving habits, the Legacy Wagon's 1.8-liter engine, paired with its 4-speed automatic transmission, offered a reasonable level of fuel efficiency for its time.

Owners of this Legacy Wagon could typically expect decent gas mileage, particularly during highway driving. The combination of a relatively small engine displacement and an aerodynamic design contributed to its fuel-saving capabilities.

Subaru engineered this vehicle with an emphasis on reliability and long-term durability, which also played a role in its efficient fuel consumption. The brand's reputation for building robust and long-lasting engines ensured that drivers could enjoy economical operation over the years.

While exact fuel efficiency numbers may vary, the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD remains a classic example of a vehicle that provides efficiency without compromising on practicality and performance. Whether used for daily commuting or longer journeys, this wagon's fuel-efficient design makes it a reliable and economical choice for its era.

Fuel Capacity: Understanding the Legacy's Range

Understanding the fuel capacity of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD is key to comprehending the vehicle's overall range and capabilities. With its appropriately sized fuel tank, this wagon strikes a balance between capacity and practicality.

The Legacy Wagon is equipped with a fuel tank that can hold approximately 60 liters (15.8 US gallons or 13.1 UK gallons) of gasoline. This capacity allows for a reasonable range between refueling stops, whether you're using the wagon for daily commuting or embarking on longer journeys.

The fuel capacity of the Legacy Wagon complements its fuel-efficient engine, ensuring that drivers can cover significant distances before needing to refuel. This attribute makes it a convenient choice for those who frequently travel longer distances or for families who value the convenience of fewer stops during road trips.

With a well-designed fuel tank, the Legacy Wagon offers practicality without compromising on vehicle weight or efficiency. The combination of a moderately sized fuel tank and the vehicle's overall fuel-saving design results in a balanced approach to fuel capacity, providing both range and economy for drivers.

In summary, the fuel capacity of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD is well-suited to its purpose as a versatile and efficient vehicle. It ensures that drivers have the necessary range to accommodate their driving needs, making it a reliable choice for various types of journeys.

Fuel Average (MPG): What to Expect on the Road

When it comes to understanding what to expect on the road with the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD, one important aspect to consider is its fuel average, often measured in miles per gallon (MPG). While specific MPG figures can vary depending on driving conditions and individual habits, this Legacy Wagon was known for its efficiency.

Thanks to its design and engineering, this model typically offered respectable fuel economy. The combination of a 1.8-liter engine, a lightweight build, and aerodynamic styling contributed to its efficient use of fuel.

While precise MPG figures may differ, drivers could generally expect competitive fuel efficiency, especially during highway driving. This made the Legacy Wagon a practical choice for those looking to balance performance with economy.

Subaru's commitment to building durable and reliable engines further added to its reputation for fuel efficiency. Drivers could trust that their Legacy Wagon would provide economical operation over the years.

Overall, while specific numbers may vary, the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD is known for offering a balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a reliable choice for various driving needs, from daily commuting to longer road trips.

Wheel Details: Rolling on the Legacy's Wheels

Examining the wheel details of the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD offers insights into the vehicle's handling and stability characteristics. Wheels are a critical component of any car, and the Legacy Wagon was no exception.

This model was typically equipped with 165S R13 tires mounted on its wheels. These wheels and tires provided a balance between ride comfort and grip on the road. While not exceptionally large or sport-oriented, they were well-suited to the Legacy Wagon's intended purpose as a versatile family vehicle.

The 13-inch wheel size was a common choice for vehicles of this era, and it contributed to a comfortable ride while maintaining a good level of control and stability. While it may not have had the larger wheels associated with sportier models, the Legacy Wagon's wheel and tire combination was practical for daily driving and provided a smooth and predictable driving experience.

Regarding wheel material, the Legacy Wagon typically featured standard steel wheels. While these may not have had the flashy appearance of alloy wheels, they were sturdy and cost-effective, contributing to the vehicle's overall value.

In terms of additional wheel-related features, the Legacy Wagon did not include advanced technologies like four-wheel steering (4WS) or variable gear ratio steering (VGS/VGRS). It was designed with a focus on reliability and practicality rather than high-performance features.

In summary, the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD featured wheels and tires that were well-suited to its intended purpose as a versatile family vehicle. While not designed for high-performance driving, these components provided a comfortable and stable ride, contributing to the vehicle's overall appeal.

Trim Levels and Features: Choices for the Legacy Buyer

The 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD offered buyers a range of trim levels and features to choose from, catering to various preferences and needs. These trim levels were designed to provide a mix of comfort, convenience, and performance options, allowing buyers to find the Legacy Wagon that best suited their lifestyles.

While the exact trim level offerings can vary by region and market, here's an overview of some of the features and options that were commonly available:

1. L Trim: The base trim level typically included essential features like power steering, a manual transmission, and a reliable 1.8-liter engine. This trim was a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

2. LS Trim: The LS trim level often added features like air conditioning, power windows, and a more comfortable interior. It was a step up in terms of comfort and convenience.

3. Sport Sedan Trim: Some markets offered a sportier version of the Legacy Wagon. This trim might include sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and additional exterior styling enhancements for a more dynamic appearance.

4. 4WD Capability: The Legacy Wagon was known for its all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability, which provided enhanced traction and stability, making it suitable for various road conditions.

5. Spacious Interior: Regardless of the trim level, the Legacy Wagon was celebrated for its roomy interior. It offered generous passenger and cargo space, accommodating families and adventurers alike.

6. Safety: While not equipped with modern safety technologies like airbags or advanced driver assistance systems, the Legacy Wagon's sturdy build and AWD contributed to a sense of security on the road.

7. Reliability: Subaru's reputation for building reliable vehicles carried over to the Legacy Wagon. Buyers could trust that their investment would provide dependable transportation for years to come.

Overall, the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD presented a range of trim levels and features designed to meet various needs. Whether you were seeking a practical daily driver, a comfortable family wagon, or a more performance-oriented option, there was likely a Legacy Wagon configuration that aligned with your preferences.

Generational Overview: Evolution of the Legacy

The 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD represents a significant chapter in the evolution of the Legacy model. To appreciate its place within the Legacy lineage, it's essential to take a brief generational overview.

The Legacy was first introduced by Subaru in 1989, and the 1989-1990 models marked its initial years of production. This launch was a pivotal moment for Subaru as it sought to establish itself as a credible competitor in the midsize car segment.

The first-generation Legacy featured a distinctive and boxy design, setting it apart from its competitors. Its all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability, which was standard in many markets, was a notable selling point. The Legacy aimed to combine the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle with the comfort and versatility of a family wagon.

The 1989-1990 Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD was part of this initial generation and played a vital role in laying the foundation for Subaru's future success. Its practicality, reliability, and AWD capability appealed to a broad audience, especially those living in regions with challenging weather conditions.

Over the years, the Legacy would evolve through subsequent generations, incorporating design updates, new technologies, and improved safety features. It continued to solidify Subaru's reputation for producing durable and dependable vehicles.

The Legacy's legacy is characterized by its commitment to providing versatile and capable transportation options. It has remained a popular choice among buyers who value AWD performance, spacious interiors, and reliability.

As the Legacy continued to evolve, it would become known for its rally heritage, advanced safety systems, and versatile body styles. The 1989-1990 Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD was a crucial starting point in this journey, setting the stage for Subaru's future success in the competitive automotive market.

Conclusion: Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD - A Classic Subaru

The 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD stands as a classic representation of Subaru's commitment to producing practical, reliable, and versatile vehicles. During its production years, it made a mark in the automotive industry with its unique blend of features and capabilities.

This Legacy Wagon was known for its dependable 1.8-liter engine, delivering a balance of power and fuel efficiency. The addition of all-wheel drive (AWD) provided excellent traction and stability, making it suitable for a variety of road conditions.

In terms of dimensions, the Legacy Wagon struck a harmonious balance between exterior size and interior space. Its roomy cabin and ample cargo capacity made it a practical choice for families and individuals with diverse needs.

The vehicle's fuel capacity and fuel economy further emphasized its practicality, allowing for longer journeys without frequent stops at the gas station. Subaru's reputation for building reliable engines ensured that the Legacy Wagon would continue to serve its owners faithfully over the years.

While not equipped with the advanced safety features of modern vehicles, the Legacy Wagon's solid build and AWD capability contributed to a sense of security on the road. Its versatility made it suitable for various driving scenarios, from daily commuting to outdoor adventures.

As part of the Subaru Legacy lineage, the 1989-1990 Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD played a pivotal role in establishing Subaru's presence in the midsize car segment. Its practicality, reliability, and performance characteristics continue to be celebrated by Subaru enthusiasts today, making it a classic example of Subaru's commitment to engineering vehicles that stand the test of time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 1989-1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon 1.8 Mi 4WD