The Subaru Impreza I Station Wagon (GF) 1.6i, produced between 1998 and 2000, represented an entry point into the first generation (GF/GM) Impreza range, specifically the wagon body style. Positioned as a practical and affordable all-wheel-drive vehicle, it catered to buyers seeking a versatile family car with Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system. This variant, equipped with the 95 horsepower 1.6-liter engine and a five-speed manual transmission, was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and all-weather capability. It sat below the more powerful 2.0-liter models in the Impreza lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza I Station Wagon (GF) |
| Type | 1.6i (95 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 143 Nm @ 3600 rpm (105.47 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ16S |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.9 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 65.8 mm (2.59 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 356 l (12.57 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1275 l (45.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4350 mm (171.26 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm (99.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza 1.6i was the EJ16S engine, a 1.6-liter (1597 cc) naturally aspirated, horizontally-opposed (boxer) four-cylinder gasoline engine. The boxer configuration, a Subaru hallmark, contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving handling. The EJ16S featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. This engine produced 95 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 143 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a relatively direct connection to the engine. The transmission was designed to work in conjunction with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, distributing power to all four wheels for enhanced traction.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6i, with its 95 hp, wasn’t designed for outright speed. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.3 seconds, and top speed was limited to 106 mph. However, the engine’s torque delivery, while modest, was usable across a reasonable rev range. The manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing available power. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza variants, the 1.6i felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent grip in various conditions, making it a confident handler on wet or slippery roads. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and everyday usability rather than performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6i typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric windows, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was typically cloth. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were features like alloy wheels and a sunroof. Trim levels were relatively limited, with the focus being on providing an affordable and functional vehicle. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza 1.6i utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The chassis was designed to accommodate the all-wheel-drive system, with a robust structure to handle the added stresses. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza 1.6i was generally well-received as a practical and reliable family car, particularly in markets where all-wheel drive was highly valued. Critics noted its affordability and all-weather capability, but also pointed out its relatively modest performance compared to the higher-spec Impreza models. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, although not exceptional. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza variants, the 1.6i offered a lower purchase price and slightly better fuel efficiency, but at the cost of performance. The 1.6i appealed to buyers who prioritized practicality and affordability over outright speed.
Legacy
The EJ16S engine, while not known for being particularly high-performance, proved to be a durable and reliable unit when properly maintained. Today, Impreza 1.6i models are relatively rare, particularly in good condition. They represent an affordable entry point into the Subaru ownership experience, offering the benefits of all-wheel drive and a simple, robust mechanical design. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific trim pieces may be difficult to find. The 1.6i is often seen as a sensible and practical classic, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its simplicity and all-weather capability.
