1997 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 26.7 mpg US - 32.1 mpg UK - 8.8 L/100km, a weight of 2799 lbs (1270 kg), the Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX has a water cooling horizontal opposite 4 cylinder SOHC16 valve engine, a Regular gasoline engine EJ18. This engine EJ18 produces a maximum power of 121.6 PS (120 bhp - 89.4 kW) at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque of 163.7 Nm (120.7 lb.ft - 16.7 kg.m) at 3600 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 1.8 LX braking system includes Disk at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 185/70 on 14 inch rims at the rear and 185/70 on 14 inch rims at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX has McPherson strut rear suspension and McPherson strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 19, 2024

Introduction to the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX was a notable offering in Subaru's lineup during those years. As part of the first-generation Subaru Legacy, this model brought a blend of reliability and practicality to the compact sedan and wagon segment.

Under the hood, the Legacy 1.8 LX housed a 1.8-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine, known as the EJ18. This engine produced a commendable power output of approximately 120 horsepower and 163.7 Nm of torque, making it a capable performer for daily commuting and city driving.

The car featured a 4-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear shifts and ease of operation. Its drivetrain configuration included 4WD, ensuring enhanced traction and stability on various road conditions, be it city streets or light off-road adventures.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX measured 460.5 cm in length, 169.5 cm in width, and 140.5 cm in height. With a wheelbase of 263 cm, the car offered a comfortable interior space for five passengers.

Inside the cabin, the Legacy 1.8 LX provided a range of standard amenities, such as power windows, power steering, and centralized door locks, contributing to a convenient and user-friendly driving experience.

Safety-wise, the car was equipped with a driver's airbag as standard, with an option for a passenger's airbag. The presence of side impact bars added an extra layer of protection to the occupants in case of a collision.

On the exterior, the Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX maintained a clean and classic design, without any front or rear spoilers. However, it did come with standard power-adjustable door mirrors for improved visibility.

While the car didn't boast high-end features like xenon lamps or leather seats, it excelled in its role as a practical and dependable daily driver. Its fuel consumption efficiency was respectable, achieving around 26.7 mpg in the city and an impressive 45.2 mpg at 60 km/h, making it cost-effective for regular use.

Overall, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX proved to be a reliable and sensible choice for those seeking a no-nonsense compact sedan or wagon with all-wheel drive capabilities and a fuel-efficient engine. Its well-built structure and standard safety features contributed to its appeal, making it a popular option among budget-conscious drivers during its production period.

Engine Specifications: 1.8L Boxer 4-cylinder Details

The heart of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX lies in its robust and efficient engine, a 1.8-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder powerplant known as the EJ18. This engine is part of Subaru's iconic Boxer engine family, characterized by its horizontally opposed cylinder layout.

The EJ18 engine boasts a displacement of 1820 cm3, or approximately 111 cubic inches, making it a compact yet capable power source for this compact sedan and wagon.

With a water-cooling system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, this 4-cylinder engine features 16 valves, allowing for efficient intake and exhaust flow. The result is a power output of around 120 horsepower, making it suitable for various driving situations.

The engine operates on regular gasoline, ensuring easy access to fuel without the need for premium options. This fuel-efficient powertrain offers practicality and cost-effectiveness for daily commuting and city driving.

The EJ18 engine's torque reaches up to 163.7 Nm, or approximately 120.7 lb-ft, and it delivers its maximum power output at 5600 rpm. The torque is available at 3600 rpm, offering a broad and accessible powerband.

For smooth and seamless acceleration, the Legacy 1.8 LX comes with a 4-speed automatic transmission, providing ease of operation and convenience in urban traffic conditions.

Thanks to its well-engineered design, the EJ18 engine delivers a balanced and refined performance, complemented by the legendary Subaru symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which enhances the car's stability and handling on various road surfaces.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX's 1.8-liter Boxer 4-cylinder engine stands as a reliable and efficient power source, providing a harmonious blend of performance and fuel economy. Its horizontally opposed layout, combined with Subaru's renowned engineering, contributes to the car's overall driving experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a dependable compact car for daily use.

Fuel Consumption: MPG for City and Highway Driving

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX showcases respectable fuel efficiency figures, making it a practical choice for both city and highway driving.

In city conditions, the Legacy 1.8 LX achieves an average fuel consumption of approximately 26.7 miles per gallon (MPG). This fuel economy allows drivers to navigate through urban traffic with minimal stops at the gas station, contributing to a cost-effective and convenient daily commute.

When taken on the open highway, the car's fuel consumption impressively improves, reaching an average of around 45.2 MPG. This exceptional highway mileage enhances the car's capability for long journeys, providing extended driving range before refueling.

These fuel efficiency figures are achieved partly due to the car's well-designed 1.8-liter Boxer 4-cylinder engine, which offers a balanced combination of power and efficiency. Additionally, the 4-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, optimizing fuel consumption during various driving conditions.

The Legacy 1.8 LX's fuel efficiency is also influenced by the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which enhances traction and stability, allowing for more efficient power distribution to all four wheels.

Drivers of the Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX can enjoy a cost-effective and eco-friendly driving experience with its commendable fuel economy figures. Whether navigating through busy city streets or cruising on the highway, this model proves to be an efficient and reliable choice for daily driving needs.

Fuel Tank Capacity: How Much Fuel it Holds

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX is equipped with a fuel tank that provides ample capacity for extended driving ranges. The fuel tank can hold approximately 15.8 US gallons (60 liters) of gasoline.

This substantial fuel tank capacity is a valuable feature, especially for drivers planning long journeys or for those who prefer fewer stops at fuel stations during regular commutes. With the Legacy 1.8 LX's fuel-efficient engine and impressive highway fuel economy, the large fuel tank ensures that drivers can cover considerable distances before needing to refuel.

The 15.8-gallon fuel capacity strikes a good balance between fuel efficiency and practicality, allowing the car to remain lightweight and agile while providing enough fuel to support extended drives without excessive refueling breaks.

With this fuel tank capacity, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX provides a confident and convenient driving experience, making it a reliable choice for various driving needs, be it daily commuting or exploring new destinations on longer trips.

Fuel Average: Understanding the Car's Efficiency

Understanding the fuel average of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX is essential for assessing the car's efficiency and cost-effectiveness in day-to-day use. The fuel average, often referred to as fuel economy or mileage, indicates how far the car can travel on a certain amount of fuel.

The Legacy 1.8 LX, equipped with a 1.8-liter Boxer 4-cylinder engine, demonstrates impressive fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving conditions. In city traffic, the car achieves an average fuel consumption of approximately 26.7 miles per gallon (MPG). This means that for every gallon of fuel, the car can cover around 26.7 miles in city conditions.

On the open highway, the Legacy 1.8 LX further showcases its efficiency, reaching an average fuel consumption of about 45.2 MPG. This exceptional highway mileage demonstrates the car's ability to cover long distances with fewer refueling stops, making it an ideal choice for road trips and extended journeys.

The fuel average of the Legacy 1.8 LX is attributed to several factors, including its well-engineered 1.8-liter Boxer engine, which balances power and fuel efficiency. Additionally, the car's 4-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth gear shifts, optimizing fuel consumption during various driving situations.

Furthermore, the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, allowing for efficient power distribution to all four wheels, which contributes to overall fuel efficiency.

Drivers of the Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX can appreciate the car's economical nature, as it not only reduces fuel expenses but also minimizes its carbon footprint by consuming fuel more efficiently.

With its remarkable fuel average and practical fuel tank capacity, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX stands as a reliable and eco-friendly choice for those seeking an efficient compact sedan or wagon for everyday use and beyond.

Drivetrain and Wheel Options

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX boasts versatile drivetrain and wheel options, offering drivers a blend of traction and handling suitable for various road conditions.

Drivetrain Options:

The Legacy 1.8 LX is available with Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This drivetrain configuration ensures that power is evenly distributed to all four wheels, providing enhanced traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces. The AWD system contributes to the car's confident performance, making it well-suited for tackling challenging weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or light off-road adventures.

Wheel Options:

The car comes with 14-inch wheels as standard, featuring tire dimensions of 185/70 R14. These wheels strike a balance between ride comfort and handling, providing adequate grip on various road surfaces. The 14-inch wheels contribute to the Legacy 1.8 LX's smooth ride quality and responsive driving dynamics, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The drivetrain and wheel options of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX are carefully designed to complement each other, ensuring a well-rounded driving experience. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system enhances the car's stability and control, while the 14-inch wheels offer a comfortable and reliable driving performance.

Whether navigating through city traffic or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Legacy 1.8 LX's drivetrain and wheel options provide drivers with a capable and confident driving experience, making it a popular choice among those seeking a dependable and versatile compact sedan or wagon.

Dimensions and Sizes: Length, Width, and Height

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX exhibits well-balanced dimensions, offering a comfortable and spacious interior while maintaining a compact footprint that is easy to maneuver in urban settings.

Exterior Dimensions:

The length of the Legacy 1.8 LX measures approximately 460.5 cm (181.29 inches), while the width spans around 169.5 cm (66.73 inches). The car's height reaches approximately 140.5 cm (55.31 inches).

These exterior dimensions contribute to the Legacy 1.8 LX's agile and versatile nature, making it suitable for city driving and parking in tight spaces. The car's length offers ample interior space for passengers, while the width enhances stability and handling during various driving maneuvers.

Interior Dimensions:

Inside the cabin, the Legacy 1.8 LX provides generous interior dimensions. The interior length measures around 201 cm (79.13 inches), providing sufficient legroom for occupants in the front and rear seats. The interior width spans approximately 141.5 cm (55.7 inches), allowing for comfortable shoulder space for all passengers. The interior height reaches approximately 115.5 cm (45.47 inches), providing ample headroom for passengers of varying heights.

Wheelbase and Ground Clearance:

The car's wheelbase, which measures approximately 263 cm (103.54 inches), plays a crucial role in enhancing stability and ride comfort. The longer wheelbase contributes to a smoother and more composed ride, especially on uneven road surfaces.

The Legacy 1.8 LX maintains a ground clearance of around 16 cm (6.29 inches), which strikes a balance between providing adequate clearance for minor off-road excursions while maintaining a lower center of gravity for better handling and stability during regular driving.

Weight and Seating Capacity:

The car's weight is approximately 1270 kg (2799 lbs), which adds to its stability and contributes to better fuel efficiency.

The Legacy 1.8 LX comfortably accommodates five passengers with its five-seat configuration, making it a suitable choice for families or small groups.

Overall, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX impresses with its well-proportioned dimensions, offering a harmonious combination of interior space and exterior maneuverability. This compact sedan or wagon is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for various needs, from city commuting to longer journeys.

Curb Weight: Unraveling the Car's Mass

The curb weight of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX plays a significant role in defining the car's overall characteristics and performance. Curb weight refers to the mass of the vehicle as it sits ready for operation, including all standard equipment, essential fluids, and a full tank of fuel, but without any additional cargo or passengers.

For the Legacy 1.8 LX, the curb weight is approximately 1270 kg (2799 lbs). This weight measurement takes into account the car's structural integrity, safety features, and the various components that contribute to its functionality.

The relatively light curb weight of the Legacy 1.8 LX offers several advantages. Firstly, it enhances the car's agility and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through congested city streets and parking spaces. The car's responsive handling is well-suited for urban driving and quick lane changes on highways.

Moreover, the lower curb weight contributes to better fuel efficiency, allowing the car to use less energy to move its mass, which positively impacts its overall mileage and reduces fuel consumption.

Additionally, the moderate curb weight works harmoniously with the Legacy 1.8 LX's 1.8-liter Boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, optimizing the car's performance and enhancing its driving dynamics.

Overall, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX's curb weight strikes a balance between providing a safe and well-built structure while promoting a dynamic and fuel-efficient driving experience. This makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a reliable and practical compact sedan or wagon for their everyday transportation needs.

Seating Capacity: Comfort for Five Passengers

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX is thoughtfully designed to accommodate five passengers with ease and comfort, making it an ideal choice for families, small groups, or those who frequently travel with friends or colleagues.

The car's seating capacity allows for two passengers in the front and three passengers in the rear, ensuring ample space for everyone inside the cabin. Both the front and rear seats offer supportive cushioning and adequate legroom, providing a pleasant experience for occupants on short daily commutes or longer journeys.

The Legacy 1.8 LX prioritizes passenger comfort and convenience, offering well-padded seats that promote a relaxed posture and reduce fatigue during extended drives. The interior space is thoughtfully utilized, allowing occupants to stretch out and enjoy a comfortable ride regardless of the journey's duration.

Furthermore, the car's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system contributes to a smooth and stable ride, enhancing passenger comfort by minimizing vibrations and disturbances from uneven road surfaces.

The five-seat configuration ensures that each passenger has access to standard safety features, such as seat belts and airbags, providing added peace of mind for all occupants.

Whether it's daily carpooling or weekend getaways, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX provides comfort for five passengers, making it a practical and reliable choice for various transportation needs. Its well-appointed interior and spacious seating arrangement create a welcoming environment that complements its overall reputation as a dependable and family-friendly compact sedan or wagon.

Cargo Capacity: Storage Space in Sedan/Wagon

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX offers generous cargo capacity, providing ample storage space in both the sedan and wagon variants. This makes the car well-suited for carrying belongings, groceries, or luggage, enhancing its practicality for daily use and longer trips.

In the sedan model, the trunk space offers a roomy cargo capacity that can comfortably accommodate a considerable amount of luggage or shopping bags. Whether it's a weekend road trip or a simple grocery run, the Legacy 1.8 LX sedan ensures that occupants have sufficient space for their belongings.

For those seeking even more cargo-carrying capability, the wagon model takes versatility to the next level. The wagon's rear cargo area provides a larger storage space compared to the sedan, making it a practical choice for families or individuals with additional storage needs.

Moreover, the wagon's rear seats can be folded down to create a flat load floor, further expanding the cargo capacity. This fold-down feature allows for the transportation of bulkier items, such as sports equipment, camping gear, or even small furniture pieces.

With the Legacy 1.8 LX's wagon variant, drivers can easily adapt to changing transportation requirements, making it a versatile and reliable choice for individuals or families with active lifestyles.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX impresses with its cargo capacity, offering sufficient storage space to accommodate various items in both the sedan and wagon models. This flexibility enhances the car's practicality, making it a dependable option for daily commuting, family use, and occasional adventures.

Conclusion: Legacy 1.8 LX - A Reliable Compact Car

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX is a commendable representation of a reliable and practical compact car that offers a harmonious blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and versatility.

With its 1.8-liter Boxer 4-cylinder engine and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, the Legacy 1.8 LX demonstrates capable performance while ensuring stability and control on various road conditions. The car's responsive handling and smooth ride contribute to a pleasant driving experience, whether navigating through city streets or embarking on longer journeys.

Fuel efficiency is a notable feature of the Legacy 1.8 LX, with impressive fuel economy figures both in city driving and on the highway. This cost-effective nature, combined with the car's generous fuel tank capacity, reduces the need for frequent refueling stops, making it practical for daily use and road trips.

The interior of the Legacy 1.8 LX offers a comfortable and spacious environment for up to five passengers, with well-padded seats and thoughtful utilization of space. Additionally, the wagon variant provides ample cargo capacity and versatility, allowing for flexible storage options and accommodating various transportation needs.

Safety features, including airbags and seat belts, provide added security for all occupants, further enhancing the car's reliability as a family-friendly option.

Overall, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX impresses as a reliable and sensible choice for those seeking a compact sedan or wagon with efficient performance, comfort, and practicality. Its well-engineered design, combined with Subaru's reputation for durability, solidifies its place as a dependable companion for everyday driving needs and beyond.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy 1.8 LX