The Subaru Legacy III model was produced from 1998 to 2003. The third generation was produced in station wagon and sedan bodies and had all-wheel drive. Legacy was produced at factories in the Japanese Gunma Prefecture and in the US state of Indiana.

Model history

The Subaru Legacy first appeared in 1989. The third generation of the model was introduced in June 1998. At first, a station wagon version was produced, which was called the Legacy Wagon, and six months later the Legacy Sedan began to be sold. In 2000, the model began to be sold in North America. A year later, Legacy began to be produced with a three-liter and six-cylinder EZ30 engine.

In October 2002, a new version of the Legacy S 401 was introduced, which featured a redesigned front bumper and grille. The interior has new upholstery made from a combination of leather and fabric.

In 2003, the Subaru Legacy III was replaced.

Technological features

All Subaru Legacy vehicles were equipped with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD). The main advantage of such a drive is the most efficient distribution of traction between the axles, and as a result, maximum control over the car. “Symmetrical” means that all drive components are arranged in such a way that the weight distribution along the axes is almost ideal. Torque distribution between the front and rear wheels occurs in a 50/50 ratio.

Since 1990, Subaru Legacy cars have repeatedly become winners and prize-winners of many stages of the World Rally Championship

Most models were equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A special feature of the transmission is the plug-in function of ignoring first gear, which allows you to drive the car more efficiently in difficult road conditions. Thus, the car can move away not from the first, but immediately from the second speed. The transmission also has overspeed protection. Shifting to the next gear occurs automatically when the engine reaches 6500 rpm, even if the selector is in the downshift position.

The Subaru Legacy 3 is equipped with a special one.

Some Legacy station wagons were equipped with air suspension with adjustable ground clearance (30 mm in the front and 40 mm in the rear).

In Australia, the name Liberty is used instead of Legacy. It was decided to give the car a different name for the reason that the organization helping war veterans and their families had the same name even before the car hit the market.

Subaru and Porsche have developed the Blitzen sports model based on the Legacy. This model featured Porsche's Tiptronic automatic transmission, which was first used in Subaru vehicles. The interior and exterior design were also developed by German specialists.

Since 1990, Subaru Legacy cars have repeatedly become winners and medalists of many stages of the World Rally Championship.

Advantages and disadvantages

The Subaru Legacy was the only car in its class to feature symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard. For example, Volkswagen and Ford only offer AWD as an option on higher-end models.

Subaru Legacy III, unlike other models of the Japanese manufacturer, was not included in the ranking of the most stolen cars in Russia

Legacy models with the popular twin-turbo engine have a significant acceleration advantage. For comparison, one of the competitors, with a VTEC engine, picks up speed from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, while the Subaru Legacy has this figure: 5.7 seconds with a manual transmission and 6.7 seconds with an automatic transmission.

The advantages of the car also include good stability at high speed, a spacious interior, and a reliable suspension with the ability to adjust ground clearance.

Sales and Security

In Russia, the third generation of the model was not very popular. For example, in 2002, only 70 Subaru Legacy were sold.

Based on crash test results, EuroNCAR awarded the car four stars for safety.



Subaru Legacy III, unlike other Japanese models, was not included in the ranking of the most stolen cars in Russia.

The perfection of this model range is supported by a huge number of positive reviews and photos, both from car evaluation experts and from owners. Particularly positive reviews note the high level of variability when purchasing a Subaru Legacy car, affordable cost, high technical characteristics and modern technological equipment.

In general, it is not surprising that the Subaru Legacy, whether it is a new or an old model, is at the top of the rating of cars from the Subaru company. Cars from this manufacturer have always enjoyed and will continue to enjoy wide popularity.

The first generation Legacy cars have long been out of production and now such a vehicle is extremely difficult to find. At the same time, Subaru Legacy at one time brought significant changes, as it was extremely different from all previously produced cars, as can be seen in the photo.

The car quickly gained popularity on par with other cars from world-famous manufacturers. However, in comparison with analogues, the first generation, unlike the Subaru Legacy 2019, was not equipped with top-end power units, but only high-quality spare parts were used in production.

Second generation

Subaru Legacy II generation is probably the most famous among this entire model range. This is due to the fact that Subaru Legacy II received many global changes, which are noticeable in the photo, affecting, first of all, technological equipment.

This model range is presented in three variations:

The most popular of them is the Subaru Legacy BG5, which has been actively tuning.

Subaru Legacy II generation lasted on the market for 4 years with high sales. This seriously influenced the manufacturer, so that subsequent upgrades made it possible to significantly improve the model range.

Today, if you visually compare the Subaru Legacy 2 (2nd generation) and the Subaru Legacy 2019 from the photo, it is difficult to find anything in common. Especially due to the fact that over time the car took on the appearance of an Outback.

Often, tuning a Subaru Legacy car affected the shape of the rear bumper. Because of this, you can often find Legacy with non-standard appearance elements.

Third generation

Following the Subaru Legacy II, the third generation of Subaru began selling in 1998. Like its predecessors, the car quickly found its lover. The car was especially in demand in its native country – Japan.

The model is presented in the following variations:

The Subaru Legacy BH5 model has become especially popular, as evidenced by owner reviews.

The main feature of the Subaru Legacy BH5 is that the car is directly related to the sports class of cars, as can be seen in the photo. Despite this, the Subaru Legacy Outback continued to exist.

Fourth generation

In 2013, another updated version of Subaru appeared on the global automobile market, which began to resemble Subaru Legacy II even less. At the same time, this car, like its earlier versions, received worldwide recognition and a high level of sales.

The updated model is presented in the following options:

Even today, many car enthusiasts who prefer Subaru cars to other cars remember and appreciate the Subaru Legacy BL5 and Subaru Legacy BP5, which are shown in the photo.

This vehicle had many features, the main one of which was the Impreza VRX STI sports engine.

The car left the market gradually, and was replaced by a new generation of Legacy, in particular the new Subaru Legacy Outback.

Fifth generation

The new Subaru Legacy, as has been customary since the fourth generation, was released in two variations:

This Subaru Legacy car was equipped with four different engines, which, however, were sporty in any form. Plus, some changes have been made to the rear bumper, which are noticeable in the photo - to find out more, it’s best to watch the video test drive.

The main feature of this car is that the manufacturer paid great attention to the characteristics of the car, which was the complete opposite of the Subaru Legacy BH5 and Subaru Legacy BG5.

Today, this car is not outdated, and on the Internet you can still find expert opinions about the Subaru Legacy, photos and reviews from owners.

Unlike earlier versions, new Subaru cars of the Legacy model are practically not affected by tuning. This also applies to the Subaru Legacy Outback.

Sixth generation

This generation of 2019 Subaru Legacy cars is the last to date. This model, like all its predecessors, is presented in two variations, sedan and station wagon, respectively:

Particularly significant changes in the case of this Subaru Legacy affected the rear bumper. In addition, the car received many modern technological additions, in particular an on-board computer.

You can purchase a sedan or station wagon today in many car dealerships around the world in all existing trim levels. For example, the Kemerovo region is suitable for this.

Many Subaru Legacy owners visit the race track, leave their reviews and share photos. If you are interested in the 2019 Subaru Legacy, we recommend that you refer to this online resource. Plus, you can find the latest information about the Subaru Legacy B5 there.

Specifications

Each generation of Subaru Legacy model has unique technical characteristics. If the first generation could not boast of having a top-end engine under the hood, the 2019 Subaru Legacy has a sports power unit.

Early Subaru Legacy models underwent tuning of the engine or, for example, the rear bumper several times. As a result of this, on the Internet, in particular on the junkyard, you can come across modified versions of cars from this model line.

Last generation

The latest sixth generation of Subaru Legacy cars is equipped with one of two engines. Each engine runs on gasoline and has unique power ratings:

The first motor is as follows:

• working volume – 2.5 liters;
• power – 175 horsepower.

The second engine, like the first, is an echo of the early version of Legacy. It is characterized by the following:

• working volume – 3.6 liters;
• type – 4-cylinder opposed;
• power – 256 horsepower.

Both power units, regardless of the type of car, be it a Subaru Legacy station wagon or a sedan, provide excellent performance. In particular, this applies to the fact that the new Subaru Legacy has minimal fuel consumption.

You can study the features of each engine in detail by watching a test drive video or photo on the Internet.

Notes

For cars from the Legacy model range, the price has always been at an affordable level for the average consumer.

In terms of cost, the Subaru Legacy Outback and sedan are not very different from each other.

In the manufacture of Legacy cars, high-quality spare parts are used. Due to this, you can, for example, remove the rear bumper without much concern or extra costs. If you are interested in such a removal, you are especially recommended to take a test drive of the car.

Often, car controls are located on the left side. In the case of the Subaru Legacy Outback and sedan, the car can be right-handed. Find clarification on this matter on the Internet on trusted resources.

You can find many official photos of Subaru Legacy on the Internet.

In the late nineties, the Japanese auto industry had not yet realized the need to lure buyers with a bright exterior. The renaissance happened later, around the appearance of the seventh Honda Accord and the first Mazda 6. Here is Legacy number three - a typical child of one of the most conservative companies in terms of design. Unfortunately, Subaru did not dare to develop the idea of ​​a wedge-shaped design by Giorgetto Giugiaro. But there was no goggle-eyedness of the second generation Impreza. The most striking feature of the design is the trim on the trunk that connects the rear lights with the Legacy inscription. As a result, we have a rather conservative sedan in appearance, clearly trying to please everyone at once, especially in the American market.

Inside

The interior, hidden behind frameless doors, as a logical continuation of the exterior, is uncomplicated in design. Two-tone trim, a classic technique that makes the interior visually more expensive, works this time too. The design of the door cards, upholstered in light leather to match the seats - with a claim to style. It’s all the more offensive to see a not-too-unconvincing imitation of wood on the center console. Especially in contrast with the real wood on the Momo steering wheel, which migrated here from the three-liter version.

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The front seats cannot be called sports: the side support bolsters are too widely spaced. But there are no complaints about the profile and length of the pillow. Unfortunately, there are no electrical adjustments. There is enough space in the back for two people of average height, provided the front passengers are of similar build.

The equipment, including leather trim, automatic transmission, heated seats, climate control and cruise control, is very convincing by the standards of the non-premium segment of the early 2000s. All controls are in place, but there are some ergonomic miscalculations. For example, only the driver's window has backlighting and automatic closers, the door pockets are too small, and the center armrest is also not a record holder in terms of volume. In Subaru, you say, this is not the main thing?

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In move

Unlike the Impreza, the Legacy is not constrained by a strict dress code that requires it to have a turbo engine and a manual transmission. If you look at the Subaru as a typical middle-class sedan, then the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four is even more relevant here. The power is confusing - only 156 hp, and moreover, in combination with a four-speed automatic. Will this not kill the sportiness that, according to legend, lives in every Subaru?

The Legacy interprets the slightest touch of the gas pedal as a command to “Fast!” The jerk from the spot is sharp and looks promising, but a miracle does not happen. The dynamics cannot be called completely vegetable, the sedan confidently stays in the traffic, but the Legacy 2.5 is undoubtedly far from sport. And the bulk of the blame here definitely lies with the machine. The box, slowly shuffling its four gears, is clearly designed for comfort and does not hesitate to steal the lion's share of torque. Sports mode only partially saves.

It's a pity, because 223 Nm deserves more intelligent use. Especially considering how obediently the sedan obeys the commands of the four-spoke steering wheel. The Legacy takes turns easily and naturally, as if sticking to the road: the low center of gravity (partly thanks to the boxer engine) does its job. The situation does not change with increasing speed. Rolls and sway are still minimal - the Legacy clearly demonstrates with its entire appearance that the maximum capabilities have not yet been reached.

Consumption per 100 km

The suspension (McPherson struts at the front and multi-link at the rear) tries to find a balance between comfort as an integral part of a solid sedan and sport, which is dictated by the ideology of the brand. Whether it works or not depends on the situation. Outside the city, excessively detailed reading of the numerous folds of asphalt periodically generates shallow yaw. But in the city, the energy intensity of the suspension allows you to storm, without reducing speed, even the interweaving of tram tracks at intersections.

All third-generation Legacies have all-wheel drive, but, as they say, there is a nuance. The fate of this sedan was determined by the presence of an automatic transmission and a not very powerful engine. It is not the center differential that is responsible for the redistribution of torque here, but the hydromechanical clutch. If the front wheels slip, it can transfer up to 50% of the traction to the rear. “Honest” symmetrical all-wheel drive with a center differential was the lot of powerful versions. But even a Subaru like this can give you confidence on a slippery road. It may not be the brightest, but still a star from the Pleiades constellation.

Purchase history

Boris's affair with Subaru began in 2010. The first was the first-generation Impreza, which really captivated him with its combination of reliability and exciting handling, available all year round. Boris still remembers the Ford Focus that appeared after it with a shudder. Naturally, when it came to buying a new everyday car in 2014, there was no question of choosing a brand - only Subaru. Since a little more comfort was needed compared to the Impreza, but not at the expense of handling, the search began for the Legacy.

A suitable specimen was found only after a month and a half. A 2001 sedan in European specification, imported from Germany in 2007, was sold with a mileage of 190,000 km. Boris was attracted primarily by the lively body - almost entirely in its original paint - and good equipment. The price was slightly higher than the market average at that time - 310,000 rubles.

Repair

Immediately after the purchase, all filters were replaced, new oils were poured into the engine and gearbox, and the air conditioning was refilled. When replacing the brakes, the choice fell on larger discs with a diameter of 294 mm (instead of 276 mm) with two-piston calipers taken from the next generation Legacy. Boris replaced the spark plugs himself, simply by removing the battery and moving the air filter box to the side. There was no need to hang the engine for this.

After a minor accident, the rear of the car had to be repaired. The left rear fender, the trunk lid along with the decorative trim and the rear optics were replaced. Spare parts were purchased in Vladivostok, which provided significant savings compared to prices in St. Petersburg. During a recent maintenance, another oil change was made in the automatic transmission. At the same time, the ball joints and steering ends were replaced and the power steering fluid was updated.

Exploitation

The actual mileage of the Legacy has already exceeded 300,000 km. The sedan copes well with the role of a daily car and easily endures long-distance voyages - for example, to Abkhazia. Boris still doesn’t see an alternative to it, even among more modern Subaru models. He prefers to service the car himself.

Expenses

• Maintenance with replacement of engine oil (Motul 5W-40) and filters - every 10,000 km
• Fuel consumption in the urban cycle – 12-13 l/100 km
• Fuel consumption on the highway – 8-9 l/100 km
• Fuel consumption in the combined cycle - 10-11 l/100 km
• Fuel - AI-95
• Plans

Plans for an everyday car are purely household ones. This includes replacing the windshield, removing the old catalyst and repairing the exhaust system. And most importantly, we have to deal with the oil burner. On a recent trip to Voronezh (almost 1,300 km), Legacy consumed almost a liter of oil.

Model history

The premiere of the third generation Subaru Legacy was announced in 1998. The model was assembled in Japan and the USA. For the first time in its history, the sedan was equipped with no alternative all-wheel drive, regardless of the market.

Subaru Legacy "1998–2003

The range of engines consisted of traditional opposed “fours” with a volume of 2.0 and 2.5 liters. The power of naturally aspirated versions started at 125 hp, but the turbocharged Legacy had 265 and even 280 hp. Standing apart were the limited edition versions with a three-liter six-cylinder boxer engine producing 223 hp. Civilian sedans were equipped with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission, while the STi version was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

Subaru Legacy "1998–2004

Production of the third generation Legacy ended in 2004.

If we take an old Subaru, then...

Sales market: Japan. Right hand drive

Legacy Touring Wagon is a station wagon belonging to the middle class of cars. With the advent of the third generation Legacy, the station wagon version was released six months earlier than the sedan, which received its own B4 brand and, thanks to the best modifications, firmly established itself in the sports class. In turn, the Legacy Wagon continued the trend of first-class station wagons, not forgetting, of course, the sporty driving characteristics that attracted the attention of almost the whole world. For three generations of the Legacy model, Subaru has maintained the concept of this car. The result is a car with its own character. Also worthy of note is the fact that, given the general Japanese trend towards increasing external dimensions, the Legacy Wagon has retained the same body dimensions. The third generation of this model was produced exclusively in an all-wheel drive version and was equipped with engines with a displacement of 2 liters and higher.

Having eliminated the 1.8-liter engine trim, the new generation Legacy Wagon prioritizes power, dynamics, safety and driving pleasure, demonstrating the best capabilities of all-wheel drive station wagons. Of course, inexpensive modifications offered only the bare minimum (air conditioning, power steering, power accessories, fog lights, “casting”), but everything changed with an increase in the level of equipment - the car received climate control, a power sunroof, roof rails, a leather steering wheel, interior trim “ wood effect”, leather interior, electric front seats, CD player. One of the best trim levels of the generation is the 3.0 Blitzen 6, the result of collaboration with Porsche Design, which developed unique details (wheels, body kit, interior) and body colors. And the GT-B version deserves attention as an extended sports version with Bilstein struts, larger brake discs and an aero body kit that reduces wind noise and improves aerodynamic performance.

The third-generation Legacy Wagon features new, improved engines and chassis. The most powerful engines are 260 and 280 hp. are installed on GT modifications, which are extremely popular. Somewhat later, modifications were added, equipped with 2.5- and 3-liter naturally aspirated engines with a power of 170 and 220 hp, while the 3-liter version uses a well-proven boxer engine with a horizontal six-cylinder arrangement. The unpretentious two-liter naturally aspirated SOHC engines with a power of 137 hp also deserve attention. and DOHC with 155 hp. with variable valve timing system. Almost all versions of the Legacy Wagon offer manual and automatic transmission options, with the exception of the 250T versions, which only have an automatic transmission.

To ensure the Legacy Touring Wagon's best ride quality, the rear suspension is multi-link, providing ample travel, stiffness, and compact dimensions for adequate cargo space. The front suspension is the usual shock absorber struts. The GT-B and 250T-B modifications use, as already noted, Bilstein sports struts, which provide a high degree of balance and increased handling. In addition, the suspension of sports modifications is lightweight due to the use of forged aluminum arms to reduce unsprung masses. And, of course, do not forget about modifications with air suspension (250T), which allows you to adjust the amount of ground clearance.

Standard on all trims are front airbags, ABS, front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, and optional side airbags. More expensive trim levels include child seat mounts, xenon headlights, a VDC system, vehicle dynamics control, which, in combination with AWD and ABS systems, has further improved safety. The body structure has better rigidity and is surrounded by a ring frame with a large cross-section to reduce cabin deformation during a collision. To improve visibility during rain, a new windshield wiper design with improved performance has been installed.

Among the right-hand drive Legacy station wagons offered on the market, 2-liter modifications predominate, mainly with naturally aspirated engines, but those who are focused on “turbo” also have a choice. Overall, the Legacy Touring Wagon is an excellent example of a family station wagon, offering high comfort and roominess, and even with all-wheel drive. Basic versions with low-power engines demonstrate good efficiency thanks to their horizontally opposed engines. Powerful versions - excellent dynamics thanks to the same horizontally opposed engines that have become an integral feature of Subaru cars.

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Subaru Legacy III, 1999

After I first purchased a Subaru car, my comrades gave me a verdict - there would be problems. The machine has a complex design and requires professional and expensive maintenance. Complete nonsense. Subaru is much simpler than most Japanese cars and very reliable. Our town is located in the mountains, everyone remembers our trails for a long time. That is, the relief is very similar to Japanese. For three years I drove a Subaru Impreza with a 1.6 engine and an automatic transmission. Not long ago I sold it and the older Subaru Legacy III just happened to turn up - a real monster with a turbine. Excellent, powerful and excellent handling car. If before this, from time to time, all sorts of BMWs passed me on straight sections, then even the AMG cannot always “compete” with the Legacy (by the way, I only drive according to the rules of the road). The speed is usually no more than 100 km per hour, but I can maintain it even on any turn (thanks to the boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive system for this). For driving along mountain serpentine roads, this Subaru Legacy III is simply the ideal car. When it’s winter, up to 1 meter of snow accumulates on the roads because they simply don’t even try to clear them. So, my Subaru never fails in such conditions. During the entire period of operation there were no special problems with it. In the city, it “eats” up to 15 liters per hundred, if you press the pedal to the floor or you get stuck in traffic jams (and we have traffic jams around the clock, so to speak). If you steer carefully and calmly (which is very uncharacteristic for a car with a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine), you can achieve 11 liters per hundred. Original parts are not expensive, and there are no problems finding them either.

Advantages : excellent, powerful and excellent handling car.

Flaws : there are no such.

Evgeniy, Irkutsk

Subaru Legacy III, 2001

I have owned a Subaru Legacy III generation for 11 months. I will try to evaluate the car as accurately as possible. Excellent seats, comfortable support. The climate works, which is good news. There are no cup holders - a problem, there is not enough space for all sorts of small things. When driving, unevenness is felt, despite the type of tires, but so far no one has complained. There is enough space in the rear seats for both adults and children. In the parking lots there is room to frolic and climb (daughter 3 years old, son 9 years old). The Subaru Legacy III handles the road well and confidently. I tried to bring it in in winter - it was completely manageable. Levels without problems with just one movement of the steering wheel. There is a special dynamic force distribution system. I was the first one walking along the highway after a snowfall (20-25 cm), laying out a path, the rest followed me and KAMAZ trucks on the right, one after another. But in the forest to the lakes, I left the bumper. Bottom line, the car is only for the city. Off-road is a speed bump, nothing more. When you understand this, you stop demanding that he conquer rural trails. The steering wheel is pleasant, not soft, not too hard, in general, somewhat pleasant. Doesn't like ruts. You have to leave it by moving to the right or to the left. There are enough dynamics, sometimes it’s nice to be the first to rush off at a traffic light. Of course, it is no longer a rival to new cars, but there is still enough enthusiasm. You still feel confident. There is enough overtaking in any range. It doesn’t press you into the seats like on a fighter jet, but you can ride in traffic with one of the fast cars. Result: a good, confident, reliable friend.

Advantages : reliability, ease of use, road stability, increased cross-country ability, balanced dynamic characteristics.

Flaws : consumption could be less. Low "urban" landing

Dmitry, Moscow

Subaru Legacy III, 2002

I purchased a Subaru Legacy III with a mileage of 52,000 km (checked at an authorized service center, and according to the condition they said it was compliant). I drove 20,000 km on it. During this time, I only changed “consumables”: oil, filters, pads - the time has come. Due to the condition of our roads, consumable materials include stabilizer bars, and spark plugs due to gasoline. Now the rear shock absorber seems to be dying. Yes, I changed the drive seals in the front differential (“were sweating”). I’ll say right away - miracles don’t happen and you have to pay for everything: there’s about 15 liters of oil in a car: engine, gearbox, 2 differentials. The rear arches make noise when driving, especially on gravel. Low ground clearance (GX equipment - spoilers all around). High fuel consumption. Thoughtful box. Poor sound insulation. Hard ride - low profile tires 205/50/16 in summer. But when you get behind the wheel, you get pleasure, the Subaru Legacy III goes like it’s on rails, it’s the same as if there’s snow, water or asphalt under the wheels. The handling is excellent, the car allows you to do a lot, but the main thing is not to overdo it. Next I want a Subaru again. I drove the same one, but a 2-liter, it eats less gasoline, accelerates a little weaker, and has a little more clearance. In principle, it is more practical.

Advantages : controllability. Dynamics.

Flaws : fuel consumption. Automatic transmission.

Vladimir, Tomsk