The Subaru Leone III Station Wagon 1800 Super 4WD, produced from 1989 to 1990, represents a significant iteration of Subaru’s popular Leone line. This variant, positioned as a capable and practical all-weather vehicle, occupied a mid-range slot within the Leone III lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle with Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system. The Leone III, built on the platform code EA82, was a key model for Subaru in markets like the United States, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe, establishing the brand’s reputation for durable, reliable, and capable vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Leone |
| Generation | Leone III Station Wagon |
| Type | 1800 Super 4WD (131 Hp) |
| Production Years | 1989 – 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon (Estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 131 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | EA82 |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Leone III 1800 Super 4WD is the EA82 1.8-liter flat-four (horizontally opposed) engine. This engine, a hallmark of Subaru for many years, is known for its relatively smooth operation and inherent balance due to its design. The EA82 featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, a significant upgrade from the carburetors used in earlier Leone models, improving fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produced 131 horsepower and approximately 130 lb-ft of torque. The EA82’s flat configuration contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling stability. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, offering convenient operation for everyday driving. This automatic transmission was a three-speed unit with an overdrive fourth gear, designed to improve highway fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1800 Super 4WD, with its automatic transmission, provided a comfortable and easy driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for typical driving conditions, though not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for practicality rather than performance, prioritizing smooth shifts and fuel efficiency. Compared to the five-speed manual transmission available in other Leone variants, the automatic version offered less driver engagement but greater convenience, particularly in urban environments. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions, making it a popular choice in regions with snow or gravel roads. The Leone’s all-wheel drive system was primarily rear-wheel drive biased, shifting power to the front wheels as needed to maintain traction. The suspension, while comfortable, was not particularly sophisticated, resulting in some body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Super” trim level of the Leone III 1800 4WD included a number of standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These typically included cloth upholstery, a basic AM/FM radio, and power steering. Air conditioning was often included as standard equipment, or available as an option. The interior was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. Optional extras available for this trim could include upgraded sound systems, sunroofs, and alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly marked controls. The Leone III’s interior space was generous for its class, offering ample room for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Leone III Station Wagon featured a conventional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-trailing arm setup at the rear. The rear brakes were typically drum brakes, while the front brakes were disc brakes. This configuration was common for vehicles in this price range during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll. The steering was a recirculating ball system, providing a relatively direct feel. The Leone’s chassis was designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics, particularly in challenging road conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Subaru Leone III 1800 Super 4WD was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and reliable all-weather vehicle. It was praised for its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which provided superior traction compared to many of its competitors. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for its lack of responsiveness and its impact on fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Leone, the automatic models offered less spirited performance. The 1.8-liter engine was considered adequate for most driving situations, but some reviewers felt that it was underpowered, especially when fully loaded. In terms of fuel economy, the 1800 Super 4WD achieved around 20-25 mpg in combined driving, which was typical for vehicles of its size and class at the time. Compared to other trims, like the GL models with manual transmissions, the Super 4WD offered a more comfortable and convenient driving experience, but at the expense of some performance.
Legacy
The Subaru Leone III 1800 Super 4WD, while not a high-performance vehicle, played a crucial role in establishing Subaru’s reputation for building durable, reliable, and capable all-wheel drive vehicles. The EA82 engine, despite its age, proved to be a remarkably robust powerplant, with many examples still running today. The Leone III’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system laid the foundation for Subaru’s current lineup of all-wheel drive vehicles. In the used car market, the Leone III 1800 Super 4WD is often sought after by enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its simplicity, reliability, and all-weather capability. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is still relatively good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the EA82 engine’s potential for head gasket failure, a common issue with these engines. Overall, the Leone III 1800 Super 4WD remains a fondly remembered and respected vehicle from Subaru’s past.
