We all know what to expect when it comes to a Japanese Domestic Market import, especially if it’s a model that’s been denied to the UK. It’ll be sillier, most likely, which is why we’ve grown to love them, more often than not with more power and extra features denied to the ordinary derivatives that bring out the fun.
But the silliness can extend to appearances as well; great for some, less desirable for others. And Subaru is the pastmaster when it comes to wild and wacky special editions for the home market. Think Impreza S201, bright yellow Spec Cs, family-friendly Foresters that would always be seen in blue and gold… they were great cars, no doubt, though perhaps a tad OTT for a lot of people.
Which is where the Legacy always came in, the responsible adult of the fast Subaru range. And here, set for a PH auction in a few days, is what must be close to dream spec across the entire 35 years of Legacys: a spicy Japanese Domestic Market model, including the best part 300hp and a manual gearbox, that nobody would really have any clue about.
That’s the Legacy way, of course. In the UK, even a model called a 3.0R was modest to the point of invisible; this JDM Spec B is almost as under-the-radar. The bonnet scoop is there, though extremely thin, and while there are twin exhausts, little else gives this car away as anything remotely potent. There were versions of the Legacy that featured STI goodies, though there’s nothing so overt here.
That being said, there’s plenty to be excited by. Spec B for this car meant 280hp from the EJ20 flat-four turbo, which is believed to be a conservative estimate in this version, with a five-speed manual gearbox. All Legacys of this era drove pretty smartly as well, so there seems little reason a faster version won’t be equally entertaining. It promises to be more than capable in a modern context, while also keeping the driver part of the action in a fashion little now does.
Having first arrived in the UK six years ago, it’s been with two owners since and ticked over 100,000 miles. The current owner has been driving it for four years, in which time there’s been some useful clutch and suspension work on top of servicing. Certainly it presents really well for a fast wagon now going into its third decade, with both exterior and interior in what seems like above average condition. As it ages, so the Legacy will require money to be spent, but then it offers up an experience nothing else comparable does: an equivalent Impreza is going to be a good deal more expensive. If the Volvo V70 R that’s also being auctioned next week doesn’t quite do it for you, a Spec B Subaru looks a fine alternative. Those in need of a fast estate are spoilt for choice…
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