|
|
Time to read 11 min
The Subaru community of enthusiasts is a very dedicated group of faithful, creative people from all walks of life. When you hear the conversations they have amongst themselves you will notice how committed they are to specific Subaru models, years, and styles more than any other brand-specific fan base. If you were to ask a Subaru enthusiast if they took offense to the word "obsessed" when describing the level of this spirit, pride, and dedication, we could almost guarantee that they would respond with a rousing "No! Not at all!". When it comes down to picking their favorite models from all the Classic Subarus that have come off the assembly line since their founding in Japan over 71 years ago, you have a few different factions that step to the microphone and preach their gospel due to the many phases of development, timelines of commercial success, and periods of historic motorsport performance. Some may be old-timers and enthusiasts who are old school followers of the antique models like the 1954 Subaru 1500, the 1958 360, the 1961 Sambar, or that iconic launching pad for the boxer engine in 1965, the Subaru 1000. This group is filled with automotive historians, purist lovers of all models of Subaru that were born out of the brain of Kenji Kita, the original CEO, and his cherished P-1 development project at the beginnings of Fuji Heavy Industries - those faithful to the brand and its unique history.
Then of course you have the next generation of followers who love the next two decades of change, design, and performance where vehicles like 1971 Subaru FF-1 G were born, quickly leading to another span of development reaching into the mid nineties by releasing cars named the Subaru Leone in 1972, which gave wings to the Subaru GL in 1973 and the Subaru DL 2-door sedan, the DL wagon, and the unique, but beloved Subaru Brat by 1978. Again, there is no wonder why a specific faction of the community may love this era of vehicles. During these times Subaru famously spent a victorious decade reaping the benefits from the Leone's development by successfully proving themselves repeatedly at the World Rally Championships during most of the mid 90's into the early 2000's. Competitive driver, Mike Kirkland, ran his Subaru Leone RX Turbo at the 1986 Safari Rally priming the field for the beginnings of the Subaru World Rally Team by 1989. Lovers of the uniquely obscure Subaru XT will remember that it was the lone brand entry - with an unfortunate and disappointing showing - during Wynn’s Safari Australia in 1985, a few years before the release of an enthusiast favorite, the Subaru Legacy in 1989. The Subaru Legacy RS platform was the first Prodrive developed car to be driven in the 1990 season which would eventually lead the brand to their Safari Rally debut in 1990. True enthusiasts know that the introduction of more powerful, more innovative, now classic platforms would bring huge success to the brand, the cars, and their drivers creating a new faction of admirers to a new era of Subaru.
Photographs above provided by Pixabay - Image 1 by Tommy79, Image 2 by Dimitris Vetsikas, and Image 3 by István Mihály
There are another group of enthusiasts that cherish the next decade of engineering and development since Subaru spent these years doing their most pioneering work behind the drawing board, in the world of motorsports, and within the consumer market. There should be no doubt in the mind of the Subaru faithful that these years introduced a few platforms that are cherished today because of the doors which were opened, the cultures that were created, and the joy that was given to generations of drivers around the world. Between 1990 and 2000 Subaru released several vehicles that would quickly help them carve a significant mark in the ground, begin to build a dedicated following, and establish a reputation and sense of community that is admired to this day. The decade did not start without some obstacles before Subaru later found a comfortable and competitive stride while making a larger, more noticeable impact, but there's no immediate arrival to success without some disappointments during the journey. The 1991 release of the Subaru SVX (also known as the or Alcyone - notably defined as the brightest star on the brand's oval emblem) was projected to be a new aspirational coupé which was more elegant, stylish, and conceptually modern upgrade to the earlier XT and XT6, but after dealing with much critical negativity aimed at those models, this release was not very helpful. As somewhat of a rarity today, the majority marked it as a commercial failure, but it may have been the true fire that led the company back to the drawing board with regained conviction and the spirit born out of WRC victories and the dedication of a growing motorsports audience. As this faction of enthusiasts fully realize, the entrance of 1994 came with a significant kick down of doors from the Subaru engineers.
During the 1994 season, our favorite car company released two major platforms that would become a beloved choice for enthusiasts of numerous genres of driving including the daily drive, touring, road and track performance, weekend recreation, and the increasingly popular infatuation with overland and off-road adventure. If you look at this with clear, unbiased analysis, you cannot help but admit how important this year was for Subaru and the future enthusiast. Since its birth in 1994, the Subaru Impreza has evolved over six generations of change, design, style, performance, and modernization all while remaining one of Subaru's most inspirational formats for their creative community. Whether it be the earliest Impreza sedans and hatchbacks, or the iconically badged and worshiped WRX STi, this is a fan favorite that has held a prominent position over the generations. Another model released in 1994 that proved to be a leading force in the "crossover movement" was the Subaru Outback, ironically, first developed as a station wagon modification to the second-generation Subaru Legacy to inject a noticeable addition to the then-blossoming newer SUV market. With continuing developments touching design, suspension, stability, and style, the Subaru Outback had become a familiar and popular face on the roads, trails, and driveways of America and beyond creating a noticeable position in the Subaru community for those who prefer a rugged multi-purpose utility over a sporty sedan. The second Impreza spin off wagon with a taller frame and promising tough personality, the 1997 Subaru Forester came out of Japan with the slogan "SUV tough, Car Easy" to support its attractive style and impressive performance, but six years later, Subaru, while trying to remain innovative and competitive, dipped their toes back into another unique concept with the release of their "multiple-choice vehicle" the 2003 Subaru Baja, with hopes to capture another piece of the market. Due to poor sales over three years, Subaru discontinued production of the Baja model in 2006.
By the end of 2003, Subaru would again roll up their innovative sleeves and move into a higher realm by creating a brand new breed of platforms that will not only open the faithful's eyes wide, but inject energy into the hearts of future enthusiasts. Between 2004 and 2015, Subaru would engineer some its most memorable and game-changing models including the Subaru Impreza WRX STi, the Subaru BRZ which would be introduced in 2012, the Subaru Crosstrek which would land as a smaller, sporty version within their crossover SUV line, and the Subaru Ascent in 2019 rounding out a full bodied stable of utility vehicles which could cater to the growing second half of the dedicated community. This period of time gave Subaru a bandwidth of offerings that appealed to just about every type of enthusiast that could be imagined, but also created some solid lines between categories that have not divided but has created a stronger, multi-cord rope each can use for support and unity. In our experience here at Subimods, we have heard of, learned about, or have had the opportunity to engage with all levels of enthusiasts and are continually inspired by the interest and level of dedication these individuals have for the Subaru brand. Within our own ranks we have several experienced enthusiasts and experts who proudly wear the badge and are not afraid to share their passions with the tribe of faithful followers that we serve with so much interest. As we often repeat, it is important to note that we do not only sell aftermarket parts to Subaru owners, we also understand their creativity and their love for the brand because a large majority of us are enthusiasts with them same goals, the same creative passions, and the same appreciation for specific Subaru platforms that have evolved throughout automotive history to become both personally enjoyable and inspiration to our lives and careers. At this point, let's share some insights about two iconic Subaru platforms from both the performance and overland genres who are now two decades old and also all-time favorites of two of our staff members - Steve Tuzzio, Director of Operations and Justin Rancourt, our Head of Purchasing here at Subimods.
Over 36 years ago , the Subaru Corporation (then known as Fuji Heavy Industries), along with the UK's Prodrive, established a motorsports division called STi who began to spend serious time and effort developing some innovative performance for Subaru Team vehicles preparing them to compete and ultimately to become historically victorious at several World Rally Championships over an impressive timeline. As one of the world's top rally racing teams, Subaru's STi tag carried a lot of weight and still holds the highest level of provenance within both the auto industry and inside the Subaru enthusiast community. The iconic 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STi (many know that a later model was used in the film "Baby Driver") is well known to enthusiasts because of its raw power and impressive performance capabilities. Any enthusiast who has been fortunate enough to own or drive this little rocket will confirm that you don't need to spend a long time strapped into the cockpit to realize that it was designed with a big helping of performance that emphasizes speed, control, and fun-filled experiences. Mix the thrill and emotion of being a young kid behind the wheel of your first go-kart screaming down a hill knowing that you had a ton of power and fun right at your fingertips and you will understand the pure spirit of the STi.
"The 04 STI is an indisputable staple in the Subaru line up - being the first model year the STI platform was introduced to the US market, it very quickly set itself apart from the WRX platform. While the 04-07 STIs are quite similar in appearance, The 2004 is the only year that doesn't have the Rear Quarter Fender Flare Trim, has the original pink/chrome STI badges, and the gray background HID headlights - as well as one of the most iconic Subaru paint colors - Java Black Pearl. Having owned an 04 STI, and being the car that made me become infatuated with Subarus, it is a near and dear platform for me. Eventually owning an 05, which on paper was nicer in every way than my 04, I was always chasing the car I fell in love with, which was not the 05. As much as I dislike the term "vintage", we've now hit the 20 year mark - which is approaching what many would consider an antique. These cars are one of the most simple versions of the STI - with their factory high flow up pipe, and lack of air pumps, they are a great platform to make additional power and drivability, with some bolt-on components and a tune. A good set of coilovers and some shifter bushings will change the driving experience of the car, to feel much more spirited, and really pull you down the rabbit hole of modifications that feels like it was yesterday."
Subaru brought something special to the market when they offered the world the 2004 Subaru Forester XT. The U.S. automotive landscape saw a new stylish, but practical sports utility vehicle roll onto the streets with a 2.5L Turbocharged boxer engine, Subaru's notable symmetrical all-wheel drive system, powerful performance, a generous amount of internal storage real estate, plus the dependability and stability that was becoming a major feather it this manufacturer's hat. The vehicle proved to be more than the next crossover solution to those who love a comfortable daily cruise mixed with a hearty weekend excursion to the mountains. The Subaru team gave the driver a multi-purpose vehicle that could be a comfortable ride with powerful response in any weather condition to keep the driver warm, secure, and in control. As the Forester model evolved over time bringing six generations into the market through the current year, it grew into becoming a popular ambassador for the Subaru brand while expanding its reach into the homes and hearts of many enthusiasts while becoming one of the favorite classics of our time. Already becoming the majority seen on the roadways of America in both metropolitan and rural regions, the Subaru Forester has earned its rank as a community favorite.
Images provided by Justin Rancourt.
“The 04-08 Forester XT is one of my favorite Subarus because in my mind it did it all! My particular Forester was a 2004 XT 5 speed (4.44 drivetrain) in the infamous Java Black Pearl which was a very rare combination. Over the years of ownership I competed in both RallyX & Hillclimb, it was a very competitive chassis which never let me down. With the Forester you had the aftermarket support just like the WRX & STI with the added perks of hauling a lot of stuff in the back! That chassis met its demise like many other vehicles in New England due to rust but I was able to repurpose the powertrain into my current GF8 chassis so in a way it does still live on.”
What is your favorite classic Subaru model and year?
The history of Subaru goes back many years and is filled with creations that everyone can appreciate, discover and share with others who have learned to appreciate a brand who has given so much to so many over the decades. We all have our favorites.
Feel free to comment below and share your experiences, joys and/or heartaches related to your favorite vehicle. We would love to hear from YOU!
Remember, the Subimods team can help you find what you need for your classic or new Subaru vehicle within our large selection of aftermarket parts, components, and accessories located on our website. We can assist and provide any inspiration to get your modification journey started. We offer a number of solutions from some of the industry's premiere manufacturers that will raise your Subaru to the next level.
For more information regarding aftermarket parts for your Subaru, please visit our website and explore the section dedicated to your platform.
We would be happy to serve you!
Bryon Turcotte - Marketing Writer/Analyst
Turcotte has worked as a writer, journalist, and digital content developer for 30 years. He began his career in music journalism in 1995 then worked for several years as both a staff writer, managing editor, and a freelancer for both regional and national music publications. Over the next three decades his contributions extended beyond the music industry as he served within the realms of higher education, science and technology, manufacturing, and finance. He has been serving as a content developer and writer on the Subimods Marketing team since August 2023.
{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}
