Segment:
Compact performance sedan/wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors Era:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (III-IV), Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32-R33), Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Escort RS Cosworth
Powertrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged boxer engine
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage from Subaru's World Rally Championship success
Handling:
Renowned for its precise handling and driver engagement
Primary Coverage:
Workshop repair and service procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Electrical diagrams, troubleshooting, maintenance
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Instant Download (PDF)
Engine:
2.0L Turbocharged EJ20G/EJ20K (Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions)
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Gearbox overhaul, clutch, driveshafts, AWD system)
Suspension And Steering:
Front MacPherson strut, Rear multi-link, Power steering system
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, Rear discs (ABS system coverage varies by market/trim)
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system, lighting, accessories, ECU diagnostics
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, chassis component replacement
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code identification (where applicable)
Engine Repair:
Engine rebuilds, cylinder head removal and installation, timing belt replacement (if applicable), turbocharger service
Transmission Repair:
Transmission disassembly and assembly, clutch replacement, AWD system servicing
Brake Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line bleeding
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness troubleshooting, component testing, sensor diagnostics
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Strut replacement, control arm service, power steering pump and rack replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls)
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with detailed diagrams and torque specifications
Special Tools:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder, 16-Valve, DOHC, Turbocharged
Displacement:
1994 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (Typical for EJ20G)
Horsepower:
Approx. 237-252 PS (175-185 kW) depending on specific market and tune (EJ20G/EJ20K)
Torque:
Approx. 200-220 lb-ft (270-300 Nm) depending on specific market and tune (EJ20G/EJ20K)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Turbocharged with intercooler
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on later models
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Center Differential:
Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential
Rear Differential:
Limited-slip rear differential (LSD) on some performance variants
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent recommended)
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent recommended)
Body Styles:
2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan, 5-Door Wagon
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2520 mm (99.2 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4335 mm (170.7 inches) for Sedan
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 inches) for Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on body style and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult VIN
Fmvss Compliance:
Meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for its era
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ABS optional/standard depending on market)
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/market dependent
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced body structure
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD compatibility (optional). Speaker configuration varies by trim.
Traction Control:
Not typically equipped on early models. Relies heavily on AWD system for traction.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available on select trims and markets.
Connectivity Features:
Basic. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe service may require shorter intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
The EJ20G features a timing belt. Replacement interval is critical, typically 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change (check manual for exact capacity).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 recommended. Synthetic oil highly recommended for turbocharged engines.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine:
Ringland failure (cracked piston lands), turbocharger seal leaks, oil consumption, blown head gaskets (less common on early EJ20G compared to later EJ25).
Suspension:
Worn bushings, suspension creaks and rattles, strut wear.
Electrical:
Faulty crank angle sensor, idle air control valve issues, wiring harness degradation.
Turbocharger:
Wastegate actuator failure, seized bearings, intercooler leaks.
Foundation:
Founded in 1953, Subaru has a long history in automotive manufacturing, initially focused on transportation and aviation.
AWD Pioneer:
Subaru is widely recognized as a pioneer in making All-Wheel Drive mainstream for passenger vehicles.
Wrx Debut:
The WRX (World Rally eXperimental) was conceived to compete in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Gc8 Generation:
The 1993-1996 models represent the first generation (GC8) of the WRX, establishing its performance credentials.
Performance Enhancements:
Each model year saw incremental upgrades in engine power, suspension tuning, and chassis rigidity, fueled by WRC development.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Initial Markets:
Primarily Japan, with limited exports to other markets like Australia, Europe, and New Zealand.
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and rally-bred capabilities. Often cited as a benchmark for affordable performance cars.
Racing Success:
Foundation for Subaru's dominant success in the World Rally Championship during the 1990s and early 2000s.
