1997 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 touring wagon GT Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 24 mpg US - 28.8 mpg UK - 9.8 L/100km, a weight of 3218 lbs (1460 kg), the Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 touring wagon GT has a water cooling horizontal opposite 4 cylinder DOHC16 valve 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 6500 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 touring wagon GT braking system includes Ventilated 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 Wagon 2.0 touring wagon GT has strut independent rear suspension and strut independent front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 23, 2024

Introduction to the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT stands as a notable addition to the Legacy lineup during that period. This wagon, produced from September 1997 to May 1998, showcased the brand's commitment to combining practicality with sporty performance. With its 4WD drivetrain and wagon body type, it catered to individuals and families seeking versatility and a touch of exhilaration.

Under the hood, you'd find the EJ20 engine, a 1994 cm3 powerhouse equipped with a charger. This engine generated an impressive 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque, making for spirited drives both in urban settings and on the open road. The transmission featured a 4-speed automatic gearbox, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.

In terms of dimensions, the Legacy Wagon GT boasted an exterior length of 468 cm, an exterior width of 169.5 cm, and an exterior height of 149 cm. These measurements contributed to its spacious interior, with ample legroom, headroom, and a comfortable seating arrangement for up to five occupants. The interior dimensions included an interior length of 195.5 cm, an interior width of 141.5 cm, and an interior height of 119 cm.

With a wheelbase of 263 cm and a relatively compact turning circle of 5.4 meters, the Legacy GT was maneuverable in various driving conditions. It also offered a reasonable ground clearance of 16 cm, allowing for moderate off-road capabilities.

Fuel efficiency was a highlight, as it achieved 24 mpg in the 10/15 mode and an impressive 39.8 mpg in the 60 km/h mode. This made it not only a powerful performer but also an economical choice for those conscious of fuel consumption.

In terms of safety and comfort features, the Legacy Wagon GT included standard front fog lamps, centralized door lock, power windows, and power steering. Safety elements such as drivers' airbags and side impact bars were incorporated to enhance occupant protection.

The Legacy GT was a well-rounded offering, catering to drivers who desired a blend of performance, practicality, and safety. Its combination of 4WD capability, a powerful engine, and spacious interior made it a popular choice during its production period.

Engine Specs: Powering the Legacy GT

Powering the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT is a robust EJ20 engine, a 1994 cm3 powerhouse. This engine, with its water-cooling horizontal-opposed 4 cylinders and DOHC 16-valve configuration, set the stage for dynamic performance.

One of the standout features of this engine is its charger, which enhances power delivery and acceleration. The Legacy GT achieved a remarkable output of 260 bhp, translating to 263.6 PS, making it a formidable force on the road. This substantial power was accessible at 6500 rpm, ensuring a thrilling driving experience.

Torque is equally impressive, with the EJ20 engine producing 318.7 Nm or 235 lb.ft of torque at 5000 rpm. This torque delivery ensures responsive acceleration and effortless highway cruising.

The engine's design and specifications make it a high-performance option for those who appreciate spirited driving. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offered a seamless blend of power and efficiency, further enhancing the Legacy GT's reputation as a versatile and exciting vehicle to drive.

Dimensions and Sizes: Exterior and Interior Measurements

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT boasts a well-thought-out design with a focus on both exterior and interior dimensions, providing ample space and comfort for its occupants.

Starting with the exterior, this Legacy model stretches to an overall length of 468 cm, which translates to about 184.25 inches. Its width measures approximately 169.5 cm or 66.73 inches, while the height stands at 149 cm, or 58.66 inches. These dimensions not only give the Legacy GT a substantial road presence but also contribute to its spacious interior.

Speaking of the interior, it offers generous room for passengers and cargo alike. Inside, you'll find an interior length of about 195.5 cm or 76.96 inches, providing comfortable legroom for both front and rear occupants. The interior width measures around 141.5 cm or 55.7 inches, ensuring ample space for passengers to sit comfortably side by side. Additionally, the interior height stands at approximately 119 cm or 46.85 inches, providing sufficient headroom for all passengers.

The wheelbase of the Legacy GT spans 263 cm or 103.54 inches, which contributes to a stable and balanced ride. The front axle length is around 146 cm or 57.48 inches, while the rear axle length is approximately 145.5 cm or 57.28 inches. These measurements help maintain the vehicle's poise on the road, especially during cornering and maneuvering.

With a minimum turning circle of 5.4 meters, this Subaru model exhibits good maneuverability, making it suitable for both city driving and tight parking situations. The Legacy GT also offers a comfortable ride height, with a ground clearance of 16 cm or 6.29 inches, allowing for moderate off-road capabilities and ensuring smooth navigation over various road surfaces.

Overall, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT's thoughtfully designed dimensions and sizes strike a balance between exterior presence and interior spaciousness, making it a versatile and practical choice for a wide range of driving scenarios.

Fuel Tank Capacity: How Much Can It Hold?

The fuel tank capacity of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT is a crucial specification for any vehicle owner, as it determines the distance a vehicle can cover before needing to refuel. In this regard, the Legacy GT offers a fuel tank with a capacity of 15.8 US gallons, which is equivalent to approximately 13.1 UK gallons or 60 liters.

This generous fuel tank capacity provides a reasonable range for driving without the need for frequent refueling stops. It's especially beneficial for long-distance journeys or when driving in areas where gas stations may be less frequent. The Legacy GT's fuel tank capacity, combined with its relatively efficient fuel consumption, ensures that drivers can cover substantial distances between refueling, making it a practical choice for both daily commuting and road trips.

Fuel Consumption: Efficiency Ratings

Understanding the fuel consumption of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT is essential for budget-conscious drivers and those aiming for eco-friendly driving habits. This vehicle offers commendable efficiency ratings, making it a practical choice in terms of fuel economy.

In the 10/15 mode, which represents a combination of city and highway driving conditions, the Legacy GT achieves a fuel consumption rate of 24 mpg in the US, or approximately 28.8 mpg in the UK. This mode simulates a variety of driving scenarios and provides a balanced estimate of real-world fuel efficiency.

For those primarily engaged in highway driving, the Legacy GT offers even more impressive numbers. In the 60 km/h mode, it achieves an outstanding fuel consumption rate of 39.8 mpg in the US, equivalent to about 47.8 mpg in the UK. This mode reflects highway cruising conditions and showcases the Legacy GT's ability to cover long distances with minimal fuel consumption.

These efficiency ratings are a testament to the vehicle's design and engineering, which combine a powerful engine with smart fuel management. Whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a highway journey, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT demonstrates a commitment to fuel efficiency, offering a balanced driving experience that won't break the bank at the fuel pump.

MPG (Miles Per Gallon): Real-world Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to real-world fuel efficiency, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT excels in delivering impressive miles per gallon (MPG). This metric is a key consideration for many drivers, as it directly impacts the cost of ownership and environmental footprint.

In everyday driving scenarios, the Legacy GT demonstrates its ability to strike a balance between performance and fuel economy. While the official ratings are valuable indicators, real-world MPG figures provide a more accurate picture of how the vehicle performs on the road.

For this Subaru model, drivers can anticipate a real-world MPG that aligns closely with the official ratings. In combined driving conditions, which include both city and highway miles, the Legacy GT typically achieves a respectable MPG figure. This means that whether you're commuting through urban streets or embarking on longer journeys, you can count on the Legacy GT to deliver efficiency without compromising on performance.

This real-world fuel efficiency is a testament to the vehicle's engineering, which optimizes power delivery and fuel management. It ensures that the Legacy GT remains a practical choice for drivers who seek both spirited driving experiences and the benefits of a fuel-efficient vehicle. Whether you're navigating city traffic or cruising on the open highway, this Subaru model is designed to provide an optimal balance between performance and fuel economy.

Trim Levels and Model Variations

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT was available in a specific trim level known as the "2.0 touring wagon GT." This particular trim level represented a unique offering within the Legacy lineup during those years.

While there may not have been multiple trim levels or a wide range of model variations for this specific Legacy GT variant, it's essential to note that the vehicle's single trim level was carefully designed to cater to drivers seeking a blend of practicality and sportiness. The "GT" designation typically signifies a more performance-oriented version of the Legacy Wagon, and it often came equipped with features and enhancements that set it apart from the standard Legacy models.

Some of the key features and variations that you could expect within the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT trim level might include sportier suspension tuning, larger wheels and tires for improved handling, and interior enhancements such as more supportive seats or unique trim accents. The focus was often on providing a more engaging driving experience while still retaining the Legacy Wagon's versatility and utility.

It's worth noting that the availability of specific features and variations may have varied by market and region. Still, the Legacy GT trim, with its sporty attributes and practicality, was designed to appeal to drivers who wanted a well-rounded vehicle capable of accommodating both daily driving needs and weekend adventures.

Wheel Options: Tires and Rims

The wheel options, including tires and rims, for the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT played a crucial role in both the vehicle's aesthetics and its performance on the road. Subaru typically offered a selection of wheel and tire combinations to cater to various preferences and driving conditions.

These wheel options typically included a set of 195/60 R15 tires for both the front and rear. The 15-inch wheels provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling performance. The tire size and design were chosen to complement the Legacy GT's suspension setup and ensure a comfortable and controlled ride.

The choice of tires and rims was an important consideration for Subaru, as it directly influenced the vehicle's grip on the road, cornering capabilities, and overall driving experience. The 195/60 R15 tire size provided adequate traction and stability, ensuring that the Legacy GT could confidently navigate various road surfaces and weather conditions.

While the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT may not have offered an extensive array of wheel options, the selected tire and rim combination was well-suited to the vehicle's characteristics. It struck a balance between comfort and performance, enhancing the overall driving dynamics of this sporty wagon.

Generational Features and Changes

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT was part of a generation of Legacy models that brought about several notable features and changes. This generation of Legacy represented a significant step forward in terms of design, performance, and technology.

One of the key changes in this generation was the introduction of the EJ20 engine, which powered the Legacy GT. This engine featured a charger, producing an impressive 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque, making it a powerful choice for those seeking exhilarating performance in a wagon.

The adoption of a 4-speed automatic transmission also marked a shift towards more refined and efficient power delivery. This transmission contributed to smoother gear transitions and improved fuel economy.

In terms of design, the Legacy GT showcased a sportier exterior with sleek lines and a wagon body type. The wheel options, featuring 195/60 R15 tires, added to its dynamic appearance. While not overly aggressive, the design changes in this generation aimed to give the Legacy a more contemporary and stylish look.

Inside the cabin, the Legacy GT featured standard power windows, power steering, and other convenience features to enhance the overall driving experience. Safety was also a focus, with the inclusion of standard driver's airbags and side impact bars.

This generation of the Legacy wagon, including the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT, demonstrated Subaru's commitment to offering practical yet sporty vehicles. The combination of a powerful engine, comfortable interior, and updated features made it a compelling choice for a wide range of drivers during its production years.

Fuel Average: What to Expect on the Road

When considering the fuel average of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT, it's essential to understand what drivers can expect on the road. This practical and sporty wagon strikes a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a versatile choice for various driving scenarios.

In real-world driving conditions, the Legacy GT typically offers a fuel average that aligns closely with its official ratings. Thanks to its well-engineered EJ20 engine and charger, which generates an impressive 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque, the vehicle delivers spirited performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

For daily city commuting, drivers can anticipate a respectable fuel average that ensures economical operation. Likewise, during highway cruising, the Legacy GT showcases its efficiency, allowing drivers to cover long distances with fewer fuel stops.

The Legacy GT's fuel average, combined with its spacious interior and sporty features, makes it a practical and enjoyable vehicle for a variety of driving situations. Whether you're navigating city traffic, embarking on a road trip, or simply enjoying a leisurely drive, this Subaru model is designed to provide a satisfying balance between performance and fuel economy.

Performance and Handling

Performance and handling are areas where the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT truly shines. This sporty wagon was designed to deliver an engaging and confident driving experience, combining power, agility, and stability.

At the heart of its performance is the EJ20 engine, equipped with a charger. This engine produces an impressive 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque, providing ample power for acceleration and overtaking. With a maximum power output at 6500 rpm and torque available at 5000 rpm, the Legacy GT offers responsive performance across the rev range.

The Legacy GT's 4-speed automatic transmission contributes to its smooth and efficient power delivery. It ensures seamless gear transitions and optimizes fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city commuting and highway cruising.

The vehicle's handling is another highlight. With its 4WD drivetrain, the Legacy GT offers excellent traction and stability, especially in challenging road conditions. It maintains a balanced and composed ride, allowing drivers to confidently tackle corners and curves.

The suspension setup, with strut independent front and rear suspensions, enhances the vehicle's stability and handling precision. It strikes a balance between ride comfort and sporty dynamics, ensuring a comfortable journey for both driver and passengers.

The Legacy GT's performance and handling capabilities make it a versatile choice for various driving scenarios. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or enjoying a spirited drive on winding roads, this Subaru wagon is well-equipped to deliver a satisfying and engaging driving experience.

Notable Upgrades and Features

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT was known for several notable upgrades and features that contributed to its appeal among drivers seeking a versatile and dynamic vehicle.

1. Powerful EJ20 Engine: At the heart of the Legacy GT's notable features was its EJ20 engine, equipped with a charger. This engine delivered a substantial 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque, providing robust acceleration and impressive power for a wagon.

2. 4WD Drivetrain: The Legacy GT boasted a 4WD drivetrain, enhancing its traction and stability, particularly in adverse road conditions. This feature made it a practical choice for drivers in regions with challenging weather.

3. Spacious Interior: Inside the cabin, the Legacy GT offered a generous interior with ample legroom, headroom, and seating for up to five passengers. The comfortable and well-designed interior ensured an enjoyable driving experience.

4. 4-Speed Automatic Transmission: The vehicle came equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear transitions and efficient power delivery. This transmission contributed to both performance and fuel efficiency.

5. Safety Features: Safety was a priority, with standard driver's airbags and side impact bars providing protection in the event of a collision. These safety features offered peace of mind to both drivers and passengers.

6. Sporty Design: The Legacy GT featured a sportier exterior design, characterized by sleek lines and a wagon body type. This design added to its aesthetic appeal and contributed to improved aerodynamics.

7. Wheel Options: The Legacy GT offered a choice of wheel options, with 195/60 R15 tires that balanced ride comfort and handling performance. These wheels contributed to the vehicle's overall sporty character.

8. Balanced Handling: The vehicle's suspension setup, with strut independent front and rear suspensions, ensured balanced and composed handling, whether navigating city streets or winding roads.

These notable upgrades and features made the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT a well-rounded choice for drivers who sought a combination of practicality, performance, and safety in a single vehicle. Whether for daily commuting or more spirited driving adventures, the Legacy GT delivered a satisfying driving experience.

Comparing the 1997 and 1998 Models

Comparing the 1997 and 1998 models of the Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT reveals some key similarities and differences between these two consecutive production years.

Engine and Performance:
Both the 1997 and 1998 models were powered by the same EJ20 engine, equipped with a charger, delivering an impressive 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque. This consistent engine specification ensured that both models offered strong acceleration and robust performance on the road.

Transmission:
Both model years featured a 4-speed automatic transmission, contributing to smooth gear transitions and efficient power delivery. The transmission remained the same in both years, ensuring a consistent driving experience.

Exterior Design:
In terms of exterior design, the 1997 and 1998 models shared similar sporty characteristics, with sleek lines and a wagon body type. The design of the two model years did not undergo significant changes, maintaining the Legacy GT's aesthetic appeal.

Interior and Safety:
Inside the cabin, both model years offered a spacious interior with seating for up to five passengers. Safety features, including driver's airbags and side impact bars, were standard in both years, prioritizing occupant protection.

Wheel Options:
Both model years came equipped with 195/60 R15 tires, striking a balance between ride comfort and handling performance. The wheel options remained consistent across the two years.

Notable Upgrades:
While the core specifications and features remained largely the same between the 1997 and 1998 models, it's essential to note that Subaru occasionally made subtle improvements and adjustments to enhance the vehicle's overall performance and reliability. However, these changes were typically incremental and may not have resulted in significant differences between the two years.

In summary, when comparing the 1997 and 1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT models, drivers would find a high degree of consistency in terms of engine performance, transmission, safety features, and design. These vehicles were designed to offer a dependable and enjoyable driving experience, with any variations between the model years being relatively minor.

Fuel Capacity: A Key Consideration

The fuel capacity of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT was a crucial consideration for owners and drivers, influencing the vehicle's range and convenience during daily use and long-distance journeys.

With a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons, approximately equivalent to 13.1 UK gallons or 60 liters, the Legacy GT offered a practical balance between fuel capacity and vehicle weight. This capacity allowed drivers to cover significant distances between refueling stops, making it well-suited for both daily commuting and road trips.

The generous fuel capacity was especially advantageous for drivers who lived in areas with fewer gas stations or those who frequently undertook journeys in remote or rural regions. It provided a sense of convenience and peace of mind, knowing that they could go longer distances without the need for frequent refueling.

Additionally, the Legacy GT's fuel efficiency, combined with its sizeable fuel tank, ensured that drivers could enjoy extended periods of driving between refills. This convenience factor was particularly appreciated during long highway drives, where fewer stops at the gas pump translated to more uninterrupted travel time.

Overall, the fuel capacity of the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT was a key consideration that contributed to the vehicle's practicality and suitability for a wide range of driving scenarios, making it a dependable choice for drivers seeking both performance and convenience.

Conclusion: Legacy GT Specs and Fuel Economy

In conclusion, the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT was a well-rounded vehicle that offered a compelling combination of specifications and fuel economy.

Under the hood, the Legacy GT was powered by the EJ20 engine, equipped with a charger, producing an impressive 260 bhp and 318.7 Nm of torque. This engine, combined with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivered a satisfying blend of power and efficiency. The Legacy GT's performance made it suitable for both daily commuting and more spirited driving experiences.

The vehicle's fuel economy was another noteworthy aspect. In real-world driving conditions, it consistently achieved fuel efficiency figures that aligned closely with its official ratings. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Legacy GT provided an optimal balance between performance and fuel economy.

The Legacy GT also excelled in terms of practicality. With a spacious interior, safety features including driver's airbags and side impact bars, and a 4WD drivetrain for enhanced stability, it catered to the needs of drivers seeking both versatility and performance.

The 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT's fuel capacity of 15.8 US gallons further contributed to its convenience and long-distance travel capabilities. This generous fuel tank size meant fewer stops at the gas pump during extended journeys, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In essence, the Legacy GT was a versatile and well-designed vehicle that appealed to a wide range of drivers. Its specifications, performance, and fuel economy combined to create a practical and enjoyable driving experience, making it a notable member of the Subaru Legacy family during its production years.

FAQ: Your Key Questions About the 1997-1998 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.0 Touring Wagon GT Answered