110 - 130 HP (varies slightly by market and specific variant)
Torque Approx:
130 - 145 lb-ft
Fuel System
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Cooling System
Coolant Type Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Lubrication System
Oil Type Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific temperature ranges)
Engine Components
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 6-8 years. Critical to follow manual for exact interval and associated component replacement (tensioner, idlers, water pump).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-up Torque Converter
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (mechanical center differential with viscous coupling, or electronically controlled for some automatic transmissions).
Fluid Specifications Manual
Gear Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Atf Type:
Subaru ATF (or Dexron II/III equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
4-Door Sedan, 5-Door Wagon
Length Approx Sedan:
4580 mm (180.3 in)
Length Approx Wagon:
4600 mm (181.1 in)
Width Approx:
1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height Approx Sedan:
1400 mm (55.1 in)
Height Approx Wagon:
1470 mm (57.9 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx Sedan:
1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Curb Weight Approx Wagon:
1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs)
Wheel Specifications
Wheelbase:
2620 mm (103.1 in)
Bolt Pattern:
5x100mm
Wheel Size Standard:
15x6.0J (often alloy wheels on higher trims)
Tire Size Standard:
195/60R15 (check specific trim level)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating 1990:
Data not readily available for this specific year/model from public databases, but generally considered safe for its era.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Drums (or discs on higher trims). Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available.
AWD Traction Advantage:
Standard Symmetrical AWD provides enhanced traction and stability in various road conditions.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became optional or standard on some higher trims in this generation.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point Inertia Reel Seatbelts, Rear Lap and Shoulder Seatbelts.
Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player. Optional CD player available on higher trims or as an aftermarket addition.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system. Automatic climate control was rare for this model year.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard on higher trim levels.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available as an option, particularly on higher-spec models or wagons.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise recommendation).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not standard on all models of this generation; if equipped, typically 15,000-20,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs often last 60,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual for type and interval.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Capacity Approx:
6.5 - 7.0 Liters (6.9 - 7.4 Quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF
Known Issues
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less common on the EJ22 compared to later EJ engines, head gasket sealing can be a concern with age and mileage. Proper torque and coolant maintenance are key.
Timing Belt Maintenance:
Critical component. Failure can cause severe engine damage. Regular replacement is paramount.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in areas with road salt; check wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes for corrosion.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Older transmissions may exhibit delayed shifting or slipping; regular fluid changes are important.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Origins:
Subaru (Fuji Heavy Industries) has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its boxer engines and AWD technology.
Model Evolution
Liberty Generations:
This 1990 model belongs to the second generation (BF/BG chassis, 1989-1994) of the Subaru Legacy (known as Liberty in some markets like Australia).
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Prefecture) and also assembled in other locations globally.
Model Significance
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy (Liberty) was introduced in 1989 as a larger, more refined successor to the Subaru Leone, aiming to compete in the mid-size segment.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Awards:
The Subaru Legacy (Liberty) often appeared on Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' list in its early years for its driving dynamics and AWD capability.
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