3050-3200 lbs (approx., depending on trim and drivetrain)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Sedan:
14.1 cu ft (approx.)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
35.9 cu ft (rear seats up) / 67.0 cu ft (rear seats folded down) (approx.)
Wheels And Tires
Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels
Tire Sizes:
P205/60R15, P205/55R16 (common)
Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
Center Bore:
56.1 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4-star (1999 model year)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4-star (1999 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides enhanced traction and stability
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
Rear seat ISOFIX/LATCH anchors not standard for this era, typically relied on seatbelt systems
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control system with rotary knobs for temperature, fan speed, and air direction.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Factory cruise control system standard on many trims.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for system status.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on radio and basic vehicle operation. No modern infotainment or smartphone integration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe use) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal use) - Consult manual for specifics
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, check manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter (EJ22E) / 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (EJ25D)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical for EJ series engines to prevent catastrophic failure)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically copper or platinum)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (using Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent).
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in later EJ engines, potential for head gasket leaks on the EJ25D, especially with high mileage or overheating.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Tensioner failure can lead to premature timing belt wear or failure. Replacement with the belt is highly recommended.
Cv Joint Boots:
Front CV joint boots can be susceptible to tearing, leading to grease loss and eventual joint failure.
Radiator And Hoses:
Original radiator and hoses may degrade over time, leading to leaks and potential overheating.
Automatic Transmission Cooling:
Ensure the transmission cooler is functioning correctly, as overheating can lead to premature failure, especially in heavy-duty use.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries) has a history dating back to aviation, leading to their distinctive horizontally opposed (boxer) engines and focus on AWD technology.
Model Evolution
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced globally in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. It was designed to compete in the growing mid-size car market.
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation (BD/BG/BK) was launched in 1993 (Japan) and 1995 (North America), featuring a more modern design and increased size.
1999 Facelift:
The 1999 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh for the second generation, receiving updated styling cues, improved interiors, and potentially minor mechanical revisions.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing typically in Gunma, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reputation:
Subaru Legacy models of this era are often praised for their AWD capabilities, reliability, and practical nature, especially in regions with challenging weather conditions.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Rating History:
Varied depending on specific model year and engine. Generally good reliability scores for the EJ22 engine, with some concerns for the EJ25D and its head gasket durability.
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