1989 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 25 mpg US - 30 mpg UK - 9.4 L/100km, a weight of 2513 lbs (1140 kg), the Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti has a water cooling 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 front wheel drive (FF) with a 4AT gearbox. For stopping power, the Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated 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 1.8 Ti 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 19, 2024

Introduction

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti stands as a notable model within the Legacy lineup, showcasing Subaru's dedication to crafting reliable and practical vehicles. With production spanning from February 1989 to May 1991, this car embodies an era of automotive engineering. The Legacy 1.8 Ti, available as a sedan, brought forward a front-wheel-drive system for improved traction and drivetrain efficiency. Operating with a 4-speed automatic transmission, this model offered ease of use in various driving conditions.

Under the hood, the Legacy 1.8 Ti featured a robust 1820 cm³ engine, part of Subaru's EJ18 engine series. The power output reached up to 111.5 PS (110 bhp) at 6000 rpm, while torque peaked at 149 Nm (109.9 lb.ft) at 3200 rpm. This engine, a water-cooled horizontal opposed 4-cylinder SOHC configuration, utilized regular gasoline for fuel. Its distinctive design contributed to the Legacy's overall performance and efficiency, making it suitable for both urban commuting and longer journeys.

As for dimensions, the Legacy 1.8 Ti boasted a wheelbase of 258 cm, providing stability and a smooth ride. Its exterior dimensions featured an overall length of 451 cm, a width of 169 cm, and a height of 138.5 cm. The spacious interior, accommodating up to five passengers, showcased an interior length of 187.5 cm, an interior width of 141.5 cm, and an interior height of 115.5 cm.

With an emphasis on practicality, the Legacy 1.8 Ti held a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons (60 L), ensuring fewer stops at the pump during extended journeys. The car's weight stood at 1140 kg, contributing to its balance between performance and efficiency. The inclusion of a 4-wheel independent suspension, composed of struts both in the front and rear, further enhanced the Legacy's ride quality.

In terms of amenities, the Legacy 1.8 Ti came equipped with power windows and power steering as standard features, reflecting an effort to provide convenience for drivers and passengers alike. The inclusion of a tachometer and centralized door lock added to the vehicle's practical appeal.

Overall, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti remains a notable chapter in Subaru's history, characterized by its balanced performance, practical design, and commitment to offering a comfortable driving experience.

Model Years

During its production run from February 1989 to May 1991, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti encapsulated a distinct era in automotive history. This particular model represented Subaru's dedication to innovation and reliability, aligning with the company's reputation for producing vehicles that catered to a diverse range of drivers. Over the course of these years, the Legacy 1.8 Ti showcased the evolution of automotive engineering, incorporating advanced features and design elements that reflected the changing landscape of the automobile industry.

As the Legacy 1.8 Ti was unveiled in the late 1980s, it emerged as a response to the growing demand for fuel-efficient and practical vehicles. Its model years, stretching across the early 1990s, mirrored a period marked by economic shifts and technological advancements. Subaru's decision to offer the Legacy 1.8 Ti as a sedan underscored the brand's commitment to providing options that catered to various preferences and needs.

Throughout these model years, the Legacy 1.8 Ti played a role in shaping Subaru's legacy (no pun intended) in the automotive world. Its introduction signaled a departure from traditional designs while staying true to the company's core principles of reliability and durability. With each passing year, the Legacy 1.8 Ti evolved in response to changing consumer expectations and the broader trends within the automotive market.

In summary, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's model years capture a dynamic period in automotive history, where innovation, efficiency, and adaptability took center stage. This model's presence on the roads during this time exemplified Subaru's ability to create vehicles that resonated with a diverse audience and laid the foundation for the brand's continued success.

Generations

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti belongs to the first generation of the Subaru Legacy series, a lineage that laid the groundwork for the Legacy's enduring reputation. This inaugural generation marked Subaru's ambitious foray into the mid-size sedan segment, and the Legacy 1.8 Ti played a pivotal role in establishing the model's identity.

Introduced in the late 1980s, this generation of the Legacy brought a fresh perspective to the automotive landscape. The Legacy 1.8 Ti was characterized by its forward-thinking design, a departure from conventional aesthetics of the time. This generation emphasized a blend of performance, practicality, and style, appealing to drivers who sought more than just a mode of transportation.

Underpinning the Legacy 1.8 Ti was Subaru's dedication to innovation, as evidenced by its front-wheel-drive configuration. This generation marked a departure from Subaru's traditional all-wheel-drive approach, demonstrating the company's willingness to adapt to changing market demands and explore new engineering solutions.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti's place within the first generation of the Legacy series showcased Subaru's commitment to refining its vehicles. As subsequent generations would demonstrate, the Legacy series continued to evolve, integrating technological advancements and design refinements that would contribute to its lasting popularity.

In essence, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti embodies the spirit of the first generation, serving as a testament to Subaru's willingness to embrace change and push boundaries. This generation marked the beginning of a legacy that would transcend decades, capturing the essence of Subaru's dedication to engineering excellence and driver-centric design.

Engine Specifications

The heart of the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti lies in its meticulously engineered engine. This model featured the EJ18 engine, a powerhouse that underscored Subaru's commitment to performance and efficiency. With a displacement of 1820 cm³, the EJ18 engine demonstrated Subaru's mastery in crafting compact yet capable powertrains.

The EJ18 engine's design and specifications were a testament to Subaru's dedication to innovation. As a water-cooled, horizontally opposed 4-cylinder SOHC configuration, it stood as a distinctive example of Subaru's engineering prowess. Regular gasoline fueled the engine, showcasing Subaru's focus on creating an accessible and efficient driving experience for a wide range of drivers.

This engine's maximum power output reached 111.5 PS (110 bhp) at 6000 rpm, complemented by a maximum torque of 149 Nm (109.9 lb.ft) at 3200 rpm. These specifications translated to a balanced blend of power and responsiveness, ensuring a dynamic driving experience whether navigating city streets or embarking on longer journeys.

The EJ18 engine's technical specifications extended beyond its power output. It featured a compression ratio of 10, contributing to its efficiency and performance optimization. With a bore of 8.8 cm and a stroke of 7.5 cm, this engine's dimensions played a crucial role in achieving the balance between power and fuel economy.

Incorporating a 4-speed automatic transmission, the Legacy 1.8 Ti's engine seamlessly transferred power to the wheels, enhancing the driving experience further. This engine's versatility and performance characteristics exemplified Subaru's dedication to creating vehicles that cater to both practicality and enjoyment, solidifying its place in the automotive landscape of its time.

Engine Options

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti was offered with a single engine option, the EJ18 engine. This engine, a hallmark of the Legacy lineup during that period, provided a harmonious balance between performance and efficiency.

The decision to offer only one engine option was a strategic move by Subaru to streamline the model's offerings and cater to a specific segment of drivers. By focusing on the EJ18 engine, Subaru ensured that the Legacy 1.8 Ti delivered consistent power and responsiveness, meeting the expectations of drivers seeking a reliable and well-rounded driving experience.

The EJ18 engine's specifications were carefully tuned to match the Legacy 1.8 Ti's character. Its power output, torque delivery, and overall performance characteristics were optimized to offer a blend of power for urban driving and efficiency for longer journeys. This single engine option encapsulated Subaru's commitment to delivering a vehicle that performed reliably in various driving scenarios.

While some manufacturers offer a range of engine options to cater to diverse preferences, Subaru's choice to offer the EJ18 engine exclusively for the Legacy 1.8 Ti reflected the company's confidence in the engine's capabilities. This decision allowed Subaru to focus on refining and perfecting a single powertrain, contributing to the Legacy 1.8 Ti's reputation as a dependable and well-balanced vehicle within its era.

Dimensions and Sizes

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's dimensions and sizes were thoughtfully designed to accommodate both passengers and cargo, ensuring a comfortable and practical driving experience. This sedan boasted a well-proportioned exterior and interior, reflecting Subaru's dedication to versatility and user-friendly design.

Externally, the Legacy 1.8 Ti measured 451 cm (177.55 inches) in length, 169 cm (66.53 inches) in width, and 138.5 cm (54.52 inches) in height. These measurements contributed to the model's sleek profile while providing ample space for passengers within. The vehicle's wheelbase spanned 258 cm (101.57 inches), promoting stability and a smooth ride on various road surfaces.

Inside, the Legacy 1.8 Ti's interior dimensions were crafted with passenger comfort in mind. The interior length extended to 187.5 cm (73.81 inches), providing generous legroom for both front and rear occupants. The interior width measured 141.5 cm (55.7 inches), allowing passengers to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. The interior height of 115.5 cm (45.47 inches) provided sufficient headroom, further enhancing passenger comfort.

In terms of seating, the Legacy 1.8 Ti could accommodate up to five passengers across its four doors. The front axle length measured 147.5 cm (58.07 inches), while the rear axle length reached 146 cm (57.48 inches). The model's ride height, or ground clearance, stood at 16.5 cm (6.49 inches), striking a balance between easy entry and handling stability.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti's attention to dimensions extended to its practicality. The fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons (60 L) ensured fewer stops at the pump during longer journeys. With its weight at 1140 kg (2513 lbs), the vehicle showcased a balance between performance and efficiency.

In summary, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's dimensions and sizes were carefully calibrated to provide a spacious and comfortable interior, complemented by a well-proportioned exterior that promoted both style and practicality.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's fuel tank capacity was carefully designed to strike a balance between convenience and extended driving range. With a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons (60 liters), this sedan demonstrated Subaru's commitment to delivering a vehicle that could cover considerable distances without frequent refueling stops.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti's fuel tank capacity was tailored to suit various driving scenarios. Whether navigating urban streets or embarking on highway journeys, the generous fuel tank capacity allowed drivers to cover substantial distances before needing to refuel. This aspect of the vehicle's design catered to drivers who valued efficiency and practicality, aligning with Subaru's reputation for producing vehicles that adapt to different lifestyles.

The 15.8 US gallons (60 liters) fuel tank capacity not only contributed to the Legacy 1.8 Ti's convenience but also highlighted Subaru's understanding of drivers' needs. The ability to travel extended distances on a single tank of fuel added to the vehicle's appeal, making it a suitable choice for both daily commuting and longer trips.

In essence, the fuel tank capacity of the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti underscored the vehicle's practicality and versatility. It served as a testament to Subaru's commitment to providing drivers with a well-rounded driving experience that combined efficiency, convenience, and functionality.

Fuel Consumption (MPG)

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's fuel consumption rates showcased a harmonious balance between performance and efficiency, reflecting Subaru's commitment to delivering vehicles that excelled in both aspects. With different driving modes taken into account, the Legacy 1.8 Ti's fuel consumption figures were tailored to cater to diverse driving scenarios.

In the 10/15 mode, the Legacy 1.8 Ti achieved a fuel consumption rate of 25 MPG (miles per gallon) in the US, or approximately 30 MPG in the UK. This mode simulated city driving conditions, emphasizing stop-and-go traffic that often characterizes urban environments. This level of fuel efficiency made the Legacy 1.8 Ti well-suited for everyday commuting, where drivers could navigate city streets with fewer fuel-related concerns.

Shifting focus to the 60 km/h mode, the Legacy 1.8 Ti excelled with a fuel consumption rate of 51.1 MPG in the US, or around 61.4 MPG in the UK. This mode represented highway driving conditions, where consistent speeds and minimal stops allowed for optimal fuel efficiency. The Legacy 1.8 Ti's performance in this mode made it an ideal choice for longer journeys, offering drivers an economical option for covering substantial distances.

Subaru's commitment to balancing performance and efficiency was evident in the Legacy 1.8 Ti's fuel consumption rates. These figures reflected the brand's understanding of drivers' needs, providing them with a vehicle that performed efficiently regardless of the driving context. Whether navigating the city or embarking on highways, the Legacy 1.8 Ti's fuel consumption rates contributed to a well-rounded driving experience.

Trim Levels

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti was offered as a distinct trim level within the Legacy lineup, catering to drivers who sought a balance between performance, practicality, and features. This trim level showcased Subaru's dedication to providing a comprehensive driving experience that encompassed both functionality and comfort.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti trim level incorporated a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. Standard amenities such as power windows and power steering reflected Subaru's focus on convenience, making daily operations smoother for both drivers and passengers. The inclusion of a tachometer contributed to a more engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to monitor engine performance effectively.

While the Legacy 1.8 Ti trim level did not include certain advanced features such as a sunroof, xenon lamps, or a rear spoiler, its emphasis was on delivering practicality and reliability. The absence of these features did not detract from the overall appeal of the trim level, as Subaru prioritized core functionalities that were integral to a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti trim level's offering of a 4-speed automatic transmission exemplified Subaru's understanding of drivers' preferences. This transmission option provided ease of use and convenience, complementing the Legacy 1.8 Ti's identity as a well-rounded vehicle suitable for various driving scenarios.

In essence, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti trim level captured the essence of Subaru's commitment to delivering a vehicle that balanced performance, convenience, and practicality. Its features were carefully selected to cater to drivers who valued essential amenities while appreciating Subaru's dedication to engineering excellence.

Wheel Options

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's wheel options contributed to both the vehicle's aesthetic appeal and its performance on the road. While the specific wheel options available for this trim level may vary based on region or specific model variations, the Legacy 1.8 Ti's focus was on providing a balance between style and functionality.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti's wheel options typically featured tire dimensions that complemented the vehicle's overall design and performance characteristics. The inclusion of 165S R13 tires for the front and rear wheels contributed to a smooth and comfortable ride, while also providing adequate traction on various road surfaces.

In addition to the standard tire dimensions, the Legacy 1.8 Ti's wheel options might have also included variations such as the 175/70 R14 84S tires. These options could have provided a slightly different driving experience, potentially impacting factors such as handling, ride comfort, and road noise.

Subaru's attention to detail extended to the wheel designs, ensuring that the Legacy 1.8 Ti's wheels were not only functional but also contributed to the vehicle's overall visual appeal. The choice of wheel options aimed to align with the trim level's identity, offering a harmonious balance between form and function.

Overall, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti's wheel options showcased Subaru's commitment to providing drivers with choices that enhanced both the vehicle's performance and its aesthetic presence on the road.

Conclusion

The 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti, with its unique blend of performance, practicality, and engineering innovation, stands as a testament to Subaru's commitment to delivering vehicles that resonate with a diverse range of drivers. From its well-calibrated engine specifications to its carefully designed dimensions, this model represents a harmonious synthesis of form and function.

As a member of the first generation of Legacy vehicles, the Legacy 1.8 Ti played a pivotal role in shaping Subaru's reputation for producing reliable and adaptable automobiles. Its presence on the roads during its production years exemplified Subaru's dedication to crafting vehicles that could excel in various driving contexts, whether in the city or on the highway.

The Legacy 1.8 Ti's focus on a single engine option underscored Subaru's confidence in the capabilities of the EJ18 engine, while its thoughtful dimensions and sizes aimed to provide comfort and versatility for both passengers and cargo. The trim level's amenities and wheel options reflected a commitment to delivering core functionalities without compromising on quality.

In summary, the 1989-1991 Subaru Legacy 1.8 Ti encapsulated an era of automotive innovation and versatility. Its features and specifications tell a story of Subaru's dedication to engineering excellence and its understanding of drivers' needs. As a result, the Legacy 1.8 Ti remains a compelling choice for those seeking a vehicle that seamlessly marries performance, practicality, and style.