1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 25 mpg US - 30 mpg UK - 9.4 L/100km, a curb weight of 3935 lbs (1785 kg), the Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD has a horizontal opposite 4 cylinder DOHC engine, a High octane premium gasoline engine EJ20. This engine EJ20 produces a maximum power of 263.6 PS (260 bhp - 193.8 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 318.7 Nm (235 lb.ft - 32.5 kg.m) at 5000 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 2.0 GT-B 4WD braking system includes V disk at the rear and V disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 215/45 on 17 inch rims at the rear and 215/45 on 17 inch rims at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD has multi link 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 18, 2024

Overview of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD is a notable entry in Subaru's lineup during that period. This sporty wagon offered a blend of performance and versatility that appealed to a range of drivers.

Production Period:
Manufactured from June 1998 to April 1999, this Subaru Legacy Wagon model showcased the company's commitment to all-wheel drive (AWD) technology and turbocharged power.

Drivetrain:
Equipped with a robust 4WD system, it provided exceptional traction and stability, ensuring confident handling on various road conditions.

Transmission:
The vehicle featured a 4-speed automatic transmission, making it convenient for daily driving while still allowing for some manual control.

Engine Specifications:
Under the hood, the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD housed a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with the engine code EJ20. This powerplant produced an impressive 260 horsepower (or 263.6 PS) at 6000 rpm and 235 lb.ft of torque at 5000 rpm.

Fuel Efficiency:
While delivering spirited performance, it maintained decent fuel efficiency, with a fuel consumption rating of 25 mpg in the US or 30 mpg in the UK during the 10/15 mode testing.

Dimensions and Size:
In terms of size, the Legacy Wagon measured 468 cm in length, 169.5 cm in width, and 148.5 cm in height. Its interior offered ample space, with an interior length of 192.5 cm, a width of 144 cm, and a height of 119 cm.

Weight and Capacity:
The vehicle had a curb weight of 1785 kg and a seating capacity for up to five passengers. It featured a spacious cargo area and boasted a 16.9 US-gallon fuel tank capacity, providing adequate range between fill-ups.

Suspension and Handling:
With a sport-tuned suspension, this Subaru Legacy Wagon exhibited precise handling characteristics. The front suspension used struts, while the rear utilized a multi-link setup, contributing to a comfortable yet engaging driving experience.

Exterior and Interior Features:
Externally, it came with standard Xenon lamps for improved visibility. Inside, features included power windows, power steering, keyless entry, and bucket seats for added comfort and convenience.

Safety:
In terms of safety, the vehicle came equipped with driver and passenger airbags, as well as optional side airbags and ABS. These features added an extra layer of protection for occupants.

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD embodied Subaru's commitment to engineering excellence, blending performance, practicality, and safety in a versatile package. Its combination of turbocharged power and all-wheel drive capability made it an appealing choice for those seeking a sporty yet practical wagon.

Engine Specifications

The heart of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD lies beneath its hood, where a robust and performance-oriented engine is found.

Engine Type:
This Subaru Legacy Wagon model is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine known by the engine code EJ20. It's worth noting that the EJ20 is a horizontally opposed 4-cylinder DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) engine, a configuration known for its balance and smooth operation.

Power and Torque:
The engine packs a punch with an impressive power output of 260 horsepower (or 263.6 PS) generated at 6000 rpm. Additionally, it delivers substantial torque, producing 235 lb.ft (or 318.7 Nm) of torque at 5000 rpm. These specifications translate to spirited acceleration and performance, making it suitable for those who appreciate a thrilling driving experience.

Turbocharging:
One of the standout features of this engine is its turbocharger, which enhances power delivery and performance. The presence of a turbocharger allows for a more dynamic driving experience, especially in situations where quick acceleration is needed.

Fuel Type:
The Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD is designed to run on high-octane premium gasoline, ensuring optimal engine performance and efficiency.

The engine in the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD embodies Subaru's engineering prowess, delivering a balance of power, torque, and turbocharged performance. Whether cruising on the highway or navigating challenging terrain, this engine is a key component in providing an exhilarating driving experience.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD comes equipped with a fuel tank that provides the vehicle with a practical and adequate fuel storage capacity.

Fuel Tank Capacity:
This Subaru model boasts a fuel tank with a capacity of 16.9 US gallons (equivalent to 14 UK gallons or 64 liters). This capacity ensures that the vehicle can store a sufficient amount of fuel, allowing for extended driving ranges between refueling stops.

With its 16.9 US gallon fuel tank, the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD strikes a balance between size and capacity, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys. This ample fuel storage contributes to the convenience and versatility of the vehicle, ensuring that drivers have the freedom to explore the road ahead with confidence.

Fuel Consumption Ratings

The fuel efficiency of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD is an important aspect to consider for those looking to balance performance with economical driving.

Fuel Consumption Ratings:
During testing using the 10/15 mode, this Subaru Legacy model achieved a fuel consumption rating of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the United States or 30 mpg in the United Kingdom. When expressed in the metric system, this translates to approximately 9.4 liters of fuel consumed per 100 kilometers driven.

These fuel consumption ratings signify a reasonable level of efficiency, especially given the vehicle's turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive capabilities. The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD offers a good balance between power and economy, making it a practical choice for those seeking both performance and reasonable fuel costs during their daily drives or long-distance journeys.

Fuel Capacity

The fuel capacity of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD plays a crucial role in determining the vehicle's overall range and convenience for drivers.

Fuel Capacity:
This Subaru Legacy model features a fuel tank with a capacity of 16.9 US gallons (equivalent to 14 UK gallons or 64 liters). This ample fuel capacity ensures that the vehicle can store a substantial amount of fuel, allowing for extended driving distances between visits to the fuel pump.

The combination of a sizable fuel tank and reasonable fuel consumption ratings makes the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD well-suited for long journeys and road trips. Drivers can enjoy the freedom to explore without the constant need for refueling, adding to the convenience and practicality of this vehicle.

Fuel Average (MPG)

The fuel average, often expressed in miles per gallon (MPG), is a key metric for evaluating the efficiency of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD.

Fuel Average (MPG):
During testing, this Subaru Legacy model demonstrated commendable fuel efficiency. It achieved an estimated fuel average of 25 MPG in the United States or 30 MPG in the United Kingdom, based on the 10/15 mode testing criteria. In the metric system, this translates to approximately 9.4 liters of fuel consumed per 100 kilometers driven.

These fuel average ratings reflect a balanced performance-to-efficiency ratio, considering the vehicle's turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive capabilities. The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD offers respectable fuel economy, making it a practical choice for drivers who value both performance and cost-effective daily driving or longer journeys.

Dimensions and Sizes

Understanding the dimensions and sizes of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD is essential for assessing its suitability for various purposes, whether it's urban commuting, family transportation, or adventures on the open road.

Exterior Dimensions:
- Length: The Legacy Wagon measures approximately 468 cm (184.25 inches) in length, providing a balanced footprint that accommodates both urban driving and spacious interior comfort.
- Width: With a width of around 169.5 cm (66.73 inches), the vehicle strikes a balance between maneuverability and interior space.
- Height: Its height stands at approximately 148.5 cm (58.46 inches), ensuring that it can navigate low-clearance areas while maintaining a comfortable cabin height.
- Exterior Size (L x W x H): The overall exterior dimensions of 468x169.5x148.5 cm (184.25x66.73x58.46 inches) contribute to a well-proportioned design.

Interior Dimensions:
- Length: Inside the cabin, the Legacy Wagon provides an interior length of about 192.5 cm (75.78 inches), ensuring ample legroom for occupants.
- Width: The interior width measures around 144 cm (56.69 inches), offering comfortable seating arrangements.
- Height: The cabin's height reaches approximately 119 cm (46.85 inches), allowing for sufficient headroom.
- Interior Size (L x W x H): The interior dimensions of 192.5x144x119 cm (75.78x56.69x46.85 inches) create a spacious and accommodating environment for passengers.

Wheelbase and Axle Lengths:
- Wheelbase: With a wheelbase of 265 cm (104.33 inches), the Legacy Wagon provides stability and a smooth ride.
- Front and Rear Axle Lengths: The front and rear axles have lengths of approximately 146.5 cm (57.67 inches) and 146 cm (57.48 inches), respectively, contributing to balanced weight distribution.

Ride Height and Ground Clearance:
- The vehicle maintains a ride height with a ground clearance of about 16 cm (6.29 inches), striking a balance between ease of entry and rough terrain capability.

Seating and Doors:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD seats up to five passengers, making it suitable for family use.
- It features five doors, providing convenient access to both the front and rear seating areas.

Turning Circle:
- The vehicle boasts a minimum turning circle with a turning diameter of 5.6 meters, ensuring maneuverability in various driving scenarios.

Understanding these dimensions and sizes allows prospective buyers to assess whether the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD meets their space requirements and fits their lifestyle, whether it involves urban commuting, family travel, or outdoor adventures.

Wheel Specifications

Examining the wheel specifications of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD offers insights into its performance, handling, and overall driving experience.

Front and Rear Tires and Rims:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD comes equipped with front and rear tires that have dimensions of 215/45 R17. These tires strike a balance between grip and comfort, enhancing the vehicle's overall road-handling capabilities.
- The 17-inch rims not only contribute to the vehicle's sporty appearance but also complement the tires for optimal performance.

Aluminium Disk:
- The vehicle features standard aluminum disks, which are known for their lightweight and durable characteristics. These disks contribute to better handling and braking performance.

Four-Wheel Steering and Variable Gear Ratio Steering:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD does not feature four-wheel steering (4WS) or variable gear ratio steering (VGS/VGRS). While these features can enhance maneuverability, their absence doesn't diminish the vehicle's ability to provide a balanced and responsive driving experience.

Sport-Tuned Suspension and Low Down Suspension:
- The vehicle comes with standard sport-tuned suspension, enhancing its ability to handle corners and uneven road surfaces with poise.
- Low down suspension is not part of the standard configuration, but the sport-tuned suspension compensates by delivering a controlled and engaging ride.

Analyzing these wheel specifications underscores the vehicle's commitment to a dynamic driving experience. The choice of tires, rims, and suspension components reflects a balance between sportiness and practicality, making the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD suitable for a variety of driving scenarios.

MPG and Performance

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD strikes a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it an appealing choice for drivers seeking both spirited driving and practicality.

Performance:
- Under the hood, this Subaru Legacy model houses a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an output of 260 horsepower (or 263.6 PS) and 235 lb.ft of torque. This powertrain provides exhilarating acceleration and ample power for various driving scenarios.

Turbocharged Power:
- The presence of a turbocharger enhances power delivery, allowing for quick acceleration and overtaking on highways. It ensures that the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD offers a thrilling driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency:
- Despite its robust performance capabilities, the vehicle maintains respectable fuel efficiency. It achieves a fuel average of approximately 25 miles per gallon (MPG) in the United States or 30 MPG in the United Kingdom during 10/15 mode testing, which translates to about 9.4 liters per 100 kilometers in the metric system.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD):
- The inclusion of Subaru's signature AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, especially in challenging road conditions. It contributes to confident handling and a sense of control behind the wheel.

Transmission:
- Equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the Legacy Wagon offers convenient shifting for daily driving while still allowing manual control when desired.

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD stands out as a well-rounded vehicle, delivering a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long journeys, this Subaru model offers an engaging driving experience without compromising on practicality.

Comparing Fuel Efficiency

Comparing the fuel efficiency of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD to other vehicles in its class and era provides valuable insights into its economical performance.

Fuel Efficiency in Its Class:
- Within its class of sporty and versatile wagons, the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD stands out with a commendable balance of power and fuel economy. Its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive capabilities give it a competitive edge in terms of performance.

Versus Sedans:
- Compared to similarly powered sedans of the same era, the Legacy Wagon's fuel efficiency might be slightly lower due to its larger and more versatile body. However, it compensates with increased cargo capacity and a spacious interior.

All-Wheel Drive Benefit:
- One of the key advantages of the Legacy Wagon is its all-wheel drive system. While this system enhances traction and handling, it may have a marginal impact on fuel efficiency when compared to front-wheel-drive counterparts.

Balancing Performance and Economy:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD strikes a balance between performance and economy. Its turbocharged engine provides spirited acceleration and power, while its fuel efficiency remains competitive within its segment.

Long-Distance Travel:
- For long-distance travelers, the vehicle's ample fuel tank capacity and reasonable fuel consumption ratings ensure fewer stops for refueling, contributing to a more convenient and enjoyable journey.

In summary, the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD showcases a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a strong contender in its class. While its fuel economy may be slightly lower compared to smaller vehicles, its versatility and all-wheel drive capability offer advantages that appeal to a wide range of drivers, including those seeking both power and practicality.

Trim Levels and Options

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD was offered with various trim levels and optional features, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicles to suit their preferences and needs.

Trim Levels:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD was available in multiple trim levels, each offering a distinct set of features and characteristics. These trim levels allowed buyers to choose the level of equipment and performance that best suited their requirements.

Optional Features:
- Subaru provided a range of optional features and packages that could be added to enhance the vehicle's comfort, convenience, and performance. These options allowed buyers to personalize their vehicles according to their preferences.

Interior Upgrades:
- Interior upgrades and options included features like leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and advanced audio systems. These options aimed to enhance the comfort and luxury of the vehicle's interior.

Exterior Additions:
- Buyers could also opt for exterior additions such as sunroofs, roof rails, and spoilers, which not only added style but also increased the vehicle's versatility.

Safety and Technology:
- Safety and technology options included advanced safety features like side airbags and navigation systems, providing added peace of mind and convenience.

Performance Enhancements:
- Performance enthusiasts could explore options like sport-tuned suspensions and alloy wheels to further enhance the vehicle's driving dynamics.

Variety of Choices:
- With these trim levels and optional features, the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD offered a wide variety of choices, allowing buyers to create a vehicle that met their specific preferences and needs.

In summary, the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD provided buyers with a range of trim levels and optional features, enabling them to customize their vehicles to align with their desired level of performance, comfort, and style. This flexibility in trim and feature selection contributed to the vehicle's appeal in the market.

Generational Changes

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD represented a specific period within the Legacy's generational evolution. Understanding the generational changes during this era helps to appreciate the vehicle's place in Subaru's legacy.

Third Generation (1998-1999):
- The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD belonged to the third generation of the Subaru Legacy, which was in production from 1998 to 2003.
- This generation marked a significant shift in the Legacy's design and engineering. It featured a more modern and streamlined appearance compared to its predecessors, with smoother lines and a more aerodynamic profile.
- Subaru introduced its new "New Age" design philosophy with this generation, aiming to enhance both aesthetics and performance.
- The third-generation Legacy was offered in various body styles, including sedan, wagon, and Outback models, providing versatility to meet different market demands.
- Technological advancements included the introduction of the Active Valve Control System (AVCS) in some models, which improved engine efficiency and performance.
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD retained Subaru's signature all-wheel drive system, further establishing the brand's reputation for capable and versatile vehicles.

Evolving Legacy:
- Over the course of the third generation, Subaru continued to refine the Legacy's features and performance characteristics.
- Innovations in safety and technology were integrated into the vehicle, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Legacy's Enduring Appeal:
- The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD was a testament to Subaru's commitment to quality, performance, and versatility.
- It represented a specific snapshot of Subaru's evolution within the third generation of the Legacy, contributing to the model's enduring appeal among a wide range of drivers.

In summary, the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD was part of the third generation of the Legacy, marked by significant design changes and technological advancements. This era played a crucial role in shaping the Legacy's reputation as a capable and dependable vehicle, setting the stage for future generations of Subaru's iconic model.

Interior Dimensions

Examining the interior dimensions of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD provides valuable insights into the vehicle's cabin space, comfort, and practicality for passengers.

Interior Length:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD offers a spacious cabin with an interior length of approximately 192.5 cm (75.78 inches). This generous length allows for ample legroom for both front and rear-seat passengers.

Interior Width:
- Inside the vehicle, the interior width measures around 144 cm (56.69 inches). This width provides comfortable seating arrangements, ensuring that occupants have sufficient space to sit and move comfortably.

Interior Height:
- The cabin boasts an interior height of approximately 119 cm (46.85 inches), allowing for adequate headroom for passengers of various heights.

Interior Size (L x W x H):
- The overall interior dimensions of 192.5x144x119 cm (75.78x56.69x46.85 inches) create a spacious and accommodating environment for passengers, whether in the front or rear seats.

Seating Capacity:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD seats up to five passengers, making it suitable for family use or accommodating groups of passengers comfortably.

Comfort and Versatility:
- The combination of these interior dimensions contributes to a comfortable and versatile cabin, ensuring that occupants can enjoy long journeys or daily commutes with ease.

Cargo Space:
- In addition to passenger space, the vehicle offers practical cargo space in the rear, further enhancing its versatility for transporting luggage, groceries, or other items.

In summary, the interior dimensions of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD emphasize the vehicle's commitment to providing a spacious and comfortable cabin for passengers. Whether for daily use, family trips, or extended journeys, the Legacy Wagon offers a practical and accommodating interior environment.

Exterior Dimensions

Examining the exterior dimensions of the 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD provides valuable information about the vehicle's size, proportions, and suitability for various driving scenarios.

Length:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD boasts an exterior length of approximately 468 cm (184.25 inches). This length strikes a balance between providing a spacious interior and ensuring maneuverability in urban and suburban environments.

Width:
- With a width of around 169.5 cm (66.73 inches), the vehicle offers a stable footprint on the road. This width allows for confident handling while maintaining a compact enough size for urban driving.

Height:
- The exterior height of the Legacy Wagon stands at approximately 148.5 cm (58.46 inches), offering a reasonable profile that allows the vehicle to navigate low-clearance areas and parking structures with ease.

Exterior Size (L x W x H):
- The overall exterior dimensions of 468x169.5x148.5 cm (184.25x66.73x58.46 inches) contribute to a well-proportioned design that balances interior space and exterior practicality.

Wheelbase:
- The vehicle features a wheelbase of 265 cm (104.33 inches), which enhances stability and ride comfort while ensuring smooth handling.

Front and Rear Axle Lengths:
- The Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD has front and rear axle lengths of approximately 146.5 cm (57.67 inches) and 146 cm (57.48 inches), respectively, promoting balanced weight distribution for better control.

Ride Height and Ground Clearance:
- The vehicle maintains a ride height with a ground clearance of about 16 cm (6.29 inches), which provides adequate clearance for rough terrain while remaining practical for everyday driving.

Number of Doors:
- The Legacy Wagon comes with five doors, offering convenient access to both the front and rear seating areas.

Minimum Turning Circle:
- With a minimum turning circle of 5.6 meters, the vehicle provides good maneuverability, allowing for confident navigation in tight spaces.

Understanding these exterior dimensions highlights the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD's versatility for both urban and suburban driving, as well as its practicality for various lifestyles and preferences.

Conclusion

The 1998-1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD represents a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and versatility. With its third-generation design, it made significant strides in modernizing the Legacy lineup, showcasing Subaru's commitment to innovation and improvement.

This vehicle's key attributes include a robust turbocharged engine delivering impressive power, Subaru's renowned all-wheel drive system ensuring confident traction, and a well-thought-out interior offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Its exterior dimensions strike a balance between providing interior comfort and ensuring maneuverability in various driving environments.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Legacy Wagon 2.0 GT-B 4WD impressively manages to offer respectable mileage without compromising on performance. Its balance of power and economy caters to a diverse range of drivers, from those seeking thrilling drives to families looking for a dependable daily vehicle.

The availability of various trim levels and optional features allows buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize comfort, technology, or performance enhancements, the Legacy Wagon provides options to meet those demands.

As part of Subaru's third-generation Legacy, this vehicle contributed to the brand's reputation for producing dependable, versatile, and capable vehicles. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to cater to a wide spectrum of drivers, making it a noteworthy choice in the world of wagons and sporty family vehicles.

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