1996 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 28.3 mpg US - 34 mpg UK - 8.3 L/100km, a weight of 2667 lbs (1210 kg), the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton has a water cooling horizontal opposite 4 cylinder SOHC16 valve engine, a Regular gasoline engine EJ20. This engine EJ20 produces a maximum power of 136.8 PS (135 bhp - 100.6 kW) at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque of 181.4 Nm (133.8 lb.ft - 18.5 kg.m) at 4000 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 2.0 Brighton braking system includes Disk at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 195/60 on 15 inch rims at the rear and 195/60 on 15 inch rims at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton has McPherson strut coil spring rear suspension and McPherson strut coil spring front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 18, 2024

Introduction to the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton was a remarkable sedan that held its own in the automotive market during its production period. Boasting a front-wheel-drive (FF) configuration, this sedan offered a reliable and smooth driving experience. Its body type, featuring four doors and accommodating five seats, made it a practical choice for families and daily commuters alike.

Under the hood, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton housed a capable engine with a displacement of 1994 cm3 (121.6 cu-in). The engine code was EJ20, known for its reliability and performance. It delivered a maximum power output of 136.8 PS (135 bhp) at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque of 181.4 Nm (133.8 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm. These specifications allowed the Legacy 2.0 Brighton to handle various driving conditions with ease.

The sedan featured a 4-speed automatic transmission gearbox, offering smooth gear shifts and efficient power delivery. With a compression ratio of 10 and a lightweight frame named E-BD4, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton struck a balance between fuel efficiency and power.

In terms of size and dimensions, the exterior length measured 460.5 cm (181.29 inches), while the width and height were 169.5 cm (66.73 inches) and 140.5 cm (55.31 inches), respectively. Inside, the cabin provided ample space, with an interior length of 201 cm (79.13 inches), width of 141.5 cm (55.7 inches), and height of 115.5 cm (45.47 inches). The wheelbase measured 263 cm (103.54 inches), contributing to stability and handling.

Safety features included a driver's airbag as standard and an optional passenger airbag. The Legacy 2.0 Brighton was equipped with side impact bars and a 3-point safety belt system to enhance occupant protection.

On the road, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton demonstrated impressive fuel efficiency, boasting a fuel consumption of 28.3 mpg (10/15 mode) or 49 mpg (60 km/h mode). Its fuel tank had a capacity of 15.8 US gallons (60 liters), allowing for decent driving range without frequent refueling.

The suspension system consisted of McPherson struts with coil springs on both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The sedan rolled on 195/60 R15 tires with standard aluminum disks.

Inside the cabin, standard features included power windows, power steering, and a tachometer for easy monitoring of engine performance. The Legacy 2.0 Brighton also had centralized door locking and keyless entry for convenience.

Overall, the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton proved to be a practical and reliable sedan with a focus on fuel efficiency and everyday usability. Its well-rounded performance and thoughtful design elements made it a popular choice among drivers seeking a blend of comfort and versatility.

Engine Specifications and Options

The heart of the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton lies in its engine specifications, which offer a blend of performance and efficiency. Powering this sedan is the EJ20 engine, an iconic and reliable choice known for its horizontally opposed configuration with four cylinders and a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) design with 16 valves.

With a displacement of 1994 cm3 (121.6 cu-in), the EJ20 engine provided a harmonious balance between power and fuel economy. It generated a maximum power output of 136.8 PS (135 bhp) at 5600 rpm, delivering a satisfying driving experience on various terrains.

The engine's torque performance was equally impressive, with a peak torque of 181.4 Nm (133.8 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm. This torque output contributed to smooth acceleration and flexibility, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising.

Subaru engineers designed the EJ20 engine with a 10:1 compression ratio, enhancing its fuel efficiency and enabling it to make the most out of each drop of regular gasoline. The engine's fuel consumption in the 10/15 mode was approximately 28.3 mpg (US) or 8.3 L/100km, while in the 60 km/h mode, it achieved an impressive 49 mpg (US) or 4.8 L/100km.

The transmission options for the Legacy 2.0 Brighton included a 4-speed automatic gearbox, which ensured seamless gear changes and contributed to the sedan's overall ease of use.

The EJ20 engine's bore measured 9.2 cm (3.62 inches), and the stroke was 7.5 cm (2.95 inches), which further optimized the engine's performance characteristics. These specifications, combined with the SOHC design, contributed to the engine's overall efficiency and reliability.

With its well-engineered EJ20 engine, the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton struck an excellent balance between performance, fuel economy, and dependability, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking a reliable and efficient sedan.

Fuel Tank Capacity Details

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton comes equipped with a fuel tank that allows for extended driving ranges without frequent stops for refueling. The fuel tank capacity for this sedan is approximately 15.8 US gallons (60 liters). This generous capacity ensures that drivers can cover considerable distances on a single tank, making it ideal for long commutes and road trips.

The well-designed fuel tank is carefully integrated into the vehicle's structure to maximize space efficiency without compromising safety or handling. With a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons (60 liters), the Legacy 2.0 Brighton can provide a satisfying driving range, making it a practical choice for daily use and extended journeys.

Thanks to its efficient engine and thoughtful fuel tank design, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton offers a good balance between fuel economy and performance. Drivers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they have ample fuel capacity to reach their destinations without interruptions, making the Legacy 2.0 Brighton a reliable and convenient choice for drivers seeking a practical and efficient sedan.

Fuel Consumption and Efficiency

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton boasts impressive fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for drivers seeking a balance between performance and fuel consumption. With its well-engineered EJ20 engine and thoughtful design, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton delivers commendable fuel economy in various driving scenarios.

During city driving and in the 15/10 mode, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton achieves a fuel consumption of approximately 28.3 mpg (US) or 8.3 L/100km. This efficiency allows drivers to navigate urban environments with confidence, knowing they can cover significant distances without frequent fuel stops.

On the highway, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton truly shines, displaying remarkable fuel efficiency. In the 60 km/h mode, the sedan achieves an impressive fuel consumption of around 49 mpg (US) or 4.8 L/100km. This excellent highway fuel economy provides drivers with an advantage during long journeys, where reduced fuel consumption translates into fewer visits to the gas station and more time on the road.

The engineers at Subaru have carefully crafted the Legacy 2.0 Brighton to optimize fuel efficiency while preserving the sedan's performance capabilities. The combination of the engine's 10:1 compression ratio, well-matched transmission gearing, and lightweight construction allows the sedan to make the most out of each gallon of regular gasoline, reducing overall fuel costs for the driver.

Whether navigating city streets or embarking on highway adventures, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton proves to be an economical and efficient choice. Its impressive fuel consumption figures demonstrate the brand's commitment to crafting vehicles that offer both driving pleasure and cost-effectiveness, making it a practical and reliable option for a wide range of drivers.

MPG (Miles Per Gallon) Performance

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton delivers commendable Miles Per Gallon (MPG) performance, making it an efficient choice for drivers conscious of fuel consumption. The sedan's well-engineered EJ20 engine and thoughtful design contribute to its impressive MPG figures, providing both economic benefits and a satisfying driving experience.

During city driving and in the 15/10 mode, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton achieves approximately 28.3 mpg (US) or 8.3 L/100km. This efficient city MPG allows drivers to navigate urban environments with confidence, knowing they can cover considerable distances without frequent fuel stops, thus reducing fuel expenses.

The Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton truly excels on the highway, where its MPG performance shines. In the 60 km/h mode, the sedan achieves an impressive fuel consumption of around 49 mpg (US) or 4.8 L/100km. This remarkable highway MPG performance is a key advantage during long journeys, where reduced fuel consumption translates into fewer visits to the gas station and more time spent on the road.

Subaru's commitment to engineering fuel-efficient vehicles is evident in the Legacy 2.0 Brighton's design. The sedan's aerodynamic profile, well-matched transmission gearing, and lightweight construction all contribute to maximizing fuel efficiency while maintaining the vehicle's performance capabilities.

Drivers of the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton can enjoy both economic benefits and environmental consciousness thanks to its excellent MPG performance. With lower fuel consumption, this sedan not only saves money but also reduces its carbon footprint, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Overall, the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton's MPG performance showcases its efficient nature, making it a practical and reliable option for drivers seeking an economical and environmentally friendly vehicle without compromising on driving pleasure.

Dimensions and Sizes Overview

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton showcases a thoughtfully designed exterior with dimensions that strike a balance between space and maneuverability. The sedan's size and proportions make it a practical choice for various driving scenarios, offering both comfort for occupants and ease of handling for the driver.

The exterior length of the Legacy 2.0 Brighton measures approximately 460.5 cm (181.29 inches), providing ample space for passengers and cargo without becoming unwieldy in tight spaces. Its exterior width spans around 169.5 cm (66.73 inches), ensuring it remains maneuverable in urban settings and parking lots.

With an exterior height of around 140.5 cm (55.31 inches), the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton strikes a balance between headroom for occupants and overall aerodynamic efficiency. This height contributes to the sedan's sleek profile, which aids in reducing wind resistance and enhancing fuel efficiency.

Inside the cabin, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton offers sufficient interior space to accommodate passengers comfortably. The interior length measures around 201 cm (79.13 inches), providing ample legroom for both front and rear occupants. The interior width spans approximately 141.5 cm (55.7 inches), ensuring ample shoulder room for passengers. The interior height is around 115.5 cm (45.47 inches), providing sufficient headroom for occupants.

The sedan's wheelbase, which measures about 263 cm (103.54 inches), enhances stability and contributes to a smooth ride quality. The front axle length spans approximately 146 cm (57.48 inches), while the rear axle length is around 145.5 cm (57.28 inches), adding to the sedan's balanced handling characteristics.

The Legacy 2.0 Brighton boasts a ride height or ground clearance of approximately 16 cm (6.29 inches), offering adequate clearance for most road conditions and occasional rough terrains.

In terms of weight, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton's approximate weight is 1210 kg (2667 lbs), contributing to its overall agility and fuel efficiency.

The sedan features four doors and seats five passengers comfortably, making it a suitable choice for families and small groups.

Overall, the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton's dimensions and sizes are thoughtfully balanced, offering a spacious and comfortable interior while maintaining maneuverability and efficiency on the road.

Wheel Information and Options

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton is equipped with well-designed wheels that complement its overall performance and aesthetics. The sedan's wheel options provide both functionality and style, allowing drivers to tailor their vehicle according to their preferences.

The Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton comes with 195/60 R15 tires, which strike a good balance between handling and ride comfort. These tires offer a good grip on various road surfaces and provide stability during cornering and braking maneuvers. The R15 designation indicates that these tires are designed for 15-inch wheels.

The sedan's wheels are made from aluminum, a popular choice for its lightweight properties that contribute to overall fuel efficiency and handling. The standard aluminum disks provide a stylish appearance while being durable and reliable.

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton offers a range of wheel options, allowing buyers to choose the design that best suits their preferences. The availability of different wheel designs adds a touch of personalization to the sedan's overall look.

With its well-matched wheel and tire combination, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton ensures a smooth and stable ride, providing drivers with confidence on various road conditions.

Overall, the Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton's wheel information and options showcase a blend of functionality and style, enhancing both its performance and visual appeal. Whether on city streets or open highways, the sedan's wheels play a crucial role in delivering a satisfying driving experience for owners.

Trim Levels and Generations

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton was available in various trim levels and belonged to the second generation of the Subaru Legacy lineup. Each trim level offered distinct features and options, allowing buyers to select a model that suited their preferences and needs.

During this period, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton was part of the second generation of the Legacy series, denoted as the "BD/BG" platform. This generation of the Legacy introduced various improvements and advancements over its predecessor, enhancing both performance and comfort.

The second-generation Legacy featured a more refined design, with sleeker lines and improved aerodynamics. The sedan's updated exterior design not only enhanced its visual appeal but also contributed to better fuel efficiency.

As for trim levels, some common variants of the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton included the base model, often referred to as the "Brighton" trim. This trim level typically offered standard features, providing a practical and budget-friendly option for buyers.

The Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton trim levels were designed to cater to a wide range of customers, offering options that included various comfort and convenience features. Depending on the specific market and region, additional trim levels might have been available, each with its unique set of features and upgrades.

While the second-generation Legacy introduced notable improvements, including the adoption of the EJ20 engine, the Brighton trim remained a popular choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded sedan with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and practicality.

Subaru's commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction was evident in the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton's various trim levels and the advancements introduced in the second generation. Whether for daily commuting or family trips, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton offered a range of options to cater to the diverse needs of drivers during its production years.

Comparing Fuel Average Among Models

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton offers commendable fuel efficiency, and comparing the fuel average among different models of the Legacy lineup reveals its economical nature. While the Brighton trim prioritizes efficiency, other models within the Legacy series may vary slightly in their fuel consumption due to differences in engine configurations and features.

Within the second generation of the Legacy lineup, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton showcases its prowess in achieving an impressive fuel average. The sedan's well-engineered EJ20 engine, coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission, contributes to its efficient performance on both city roads and highways.

Comparing the fuel average of the Legacy 2.0 Brighton with other models in the same generation, we can observe that the Brighton trim consistently delivers competitive fuel efficiency. Subaru's commitment to providing fuel-efficient vehicles is evident across the Legacy series, with each model designed to strike a balance between performance and economy.

While some other models within the Legacy series may offer slightly different fuel consumption figures due to varying engine options or features, the overall theme of efficiency remains a hallmark of the Legacy lineup.

Drivers seeking an economical and eco-friendly sedan can confidently consider the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton, knowing that its fuel average compares favorably with other models in its generation. This practical and reliable sedan proves to be a sensible choice for those looking to save on fuel costs without compromising on driving pleasure.

Conclusion: Summary of Specifications

The 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton presents a compelling package with its efficient performance, thoughtful design, and practical features. As part of the second generation of the Legacy lineup, this sedan showcases advancements that enhance both driving pleasure and fuel economy.

Under the hood, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton is powered by the reliable EJ20 engine, renowned for its horizontally opposed 4-cylinder configuration and Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) design. With a displacement of 1994 cm3 (121.6 cu-in) and a 10:1 compression ratio, the engine strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency.

The sedan's fuel consumption figures further reinforce its economical nature. Achieving approximately 28.3 mpg (US) or 8.3 L/100km in city driving and an impressive 49 mpg (US) or 4.8 L/100km on the highway, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton offers significant fuel savings for both daily commutes and long journeys.

Its exterior dimensions of around 460.5 cm (181.29 inches) in length, 169.5 cm (66.73 inches) in width, and 140.5 cm (55.31 inches) in height provide ample interior space for five passengers while maintaining maneuverability in urban environments.

With a curb weight of approximately 1210 kg (2667 lbs) and a well-matched 4-speed automatic transmission, the Legacy 2.0 Brighton delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience.

Inside the cabin, the sedan offers a practical and comfortable environment with power windows, power steering, and centralized door locking. Safety features, such as a driver's airbag and optional passenger airbag, provide added peace of mind for occupants.

The Legacy 2.0 Brighton rides on 195/60 R15 tires with standard aluminum disks, contributing to stability and efficient fuel consumption. Its front and rear suspensions feature McPherson struts with coil springs, ensuring a comfortable and well-handling ride.

Overall, the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton stands as a dependable and efficient choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded sedan. With its focus on fuel economy and practicality, this Subaru model continues to be a sensible option for a wide range of driving needs.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the 1996-1998 Subaru Legacy 2.0 Brighton