I really like the review as I am a Legacy Spec B Owner as well. My only grip is that you said 07-09 are more standardized where the 07 actually only came in 1 color combination as well, Dark Grey with a Black and Blue Interior. Someone looked up the sales for the car and it is believed that there are only 437 07's in the country. It was not until 08 where they added multiple color options. It really is a fun sleeper car and the cops pay me no attention! Thanks for the great video!
Well this just makes me want to search endless hours to get one. Have been waiting to see this review and you guys really make me want to get one! Please keep doing these vids! You guys are probably one of the very few car review shows I watch now.
Crisanto Pineda Thank you! We're glad to have you with us and are pleased to know you're enjoying our Fast Blast series. Glad our work has sent you car-searching and we hope you find something you love. Lots more on the way!
Hope you got one! I got mine 6 years ago for 6K Canadian, 130K kms, one owner. Good luck finding one these days, especially one that's stock. I do love that's a rare car to see though, it's more rare than an STi.
My parents had a 2.5GT (pretty similar to a spec b,) when I was a kid, and I had no idea it was a cool car. Just a few months after they sold it, I started getting really into cars, and started to realize the car I had sat in for the past few years was an amazing sleeper. The bad news is we had replaced it with a Ford Edge at that point :'(
I understand they also put the brakes from the STI on this car. And now they don't even offer a single turbo motor on the Legacy. Sometimes I just can't figure out what Subaru is trying to do...
I actually love it when I see reviews on RUclips of older cars since we see reviews of new cars everywhere all the time so keep up the good work, I would love to see you review a VW Passat r36 wagon since its hard to find a review on them, but they didn't sell in America I don't think so it might be hard to get haha
I have owned #17 for the last three years and love it! My thought process was similar to this owner's when purchasing this car as I wanted something that had more of a 'grown-up' look but could still perform. I'm surprised no mention was made to the red brick leather seats when speaking about the interior. This was another unique selling point for me.
Perfect review! I just bought an 06 GT sedan, not the spec B, but with all the mods that have been done it might as well be one. Love the car, super fun to drive, quiet interior despite the fact that its such a rough ride. Now I just need to install an aftermarket radio for bluetooth and Ipod...
@@motwhom3230 nothing major but a few things here and there:radiator, idler pulley, window switch, a/c expansion valve are a few that come to mind. It always starts and has never left me on the side of the road. I have put 15k miles on so far.
I bought #375 the day it arrived at the dealership and was lucky to be there when it arrived. I'm approaching 198Kmi on it and still love the car. Like Sami, I blew the engine but did it on a road course. With a Stage 1 tune, I drove from MD to Cleveland several times averaging 30 mpg. Since then, I have a built engine with 387whp/393lbft and I got 25mpg driving from MD to NC, and I still get 20-21mpg in everyday commuting. Love the car. I agree with some of the steering feel in the review, and you do have to fight a little in the corners. 2006 was before you could alter the diff. Still, I love the car. I'm in the market for a new car, but I'm hard pressed to find something that I'd enjoy driving as much!
I appreciate the video you guys made just to be different from my fellow Subaru friends that have a WRX or STI I went with a Legacy GT since I couldn't find a spec b in my area and have loved it since I got it last year 😀
I had an 07 and can definitely agree with Todd on the feel, mine was fully stock and I really didn't care for the steering feel. It pulled hard in Sport# but under acceleration you get even less feel and it's very much like a muscle car in those regards. Overall I preferred the looks of the Legacy but the STI is a much nicer driver's car
there needs to be more reviews of this generation of legacy's. i can only ever really find either basic overviews of these generation models or just the legacys from 2013 and up
I just bought a JDM 2001 Blitzen Legacy Wagon twin turbo and I'm in love. My girlfriend thought very little of it until she drove it. Now she's buying her own. I can't wait for the Hawkeyes to come out. I will be buying another for sure.
Best Car I Ever Owned!!!! By Far. Love them. Rally Crossed it in the winter, Autocross in the summer. Fast reliable Beast. Mine was only at ~260hp at the wheels but ran a 13.3 1/4 with a perfect launch.
I agree!! I'm looking specifically for the 06 Spec B. I know the 07+ Spec B have the six speed, but I want those red seats! I currently have a 05 Legacy GT Limited 5EAT. It is modded with complete catless downpipe & up pipe, dyno tuned. Its super fun, and I love it! But I'm definitely wanting to row through the gears with a stick shift. In my opinion I think the LGT sounds better then certain WRXs & STIs. Obviously depending on the exhaust setup.
having owned a 2007 Legacy non turbo 5sp i will have to totally disagree about the steering feel. i found that car to be incredibly communicative and an absolute riot in any kind of bad weather. these things turn snowstorms into playgrounds real quick lol. thank you for doing this video, though. i've always wanted one off these awesome sleepers.
Steering feel in Subarus is a bushing choice. The steering rack bushings and the suspension arm bushings bring a ton of feel and precision into the steering. It's a night and day difference.
The Spec B's have always had a soft spot with me and a few of my friends. I've always been a sucker for sleepers. One of my friends is trying to off load his 2015 WRX to pick one up.
Picked up mine a little over a year ago. Not perfect but a great car. Best part. No one notices it. Even with a full exhaust it blends right in. Even my wingless impreza gets more attention
My sister and BIL have an '09 spec.B and a Ferrari 328 side-by-side in their garage. Ask them which one is more fun to drive and they wouldn't be able to give you a clear-cut answer. Based on that, I'd say this car acquits itself quite well.
Nice review, I've always been interested in getting one of these instead of an impreza. I prefer the more grown up look. Please do a review of another great awd car. 04-08 B6/B7 Audi S4.
This is the best looking Legacy to date. This one makes about 420 FW HP, hence the reason it comes on boost at 3500 RPM which is quite acceptable. This is not your 280 HP small turbo that will come on at 2000+ rpm, however, 4000+ rpm for boost in 1st gear means the turbo is not properly sized. Improper compressor a/r ratio. It also has the wrong clutch. ACT makes a street kit HDSS that will handle that torque and give you daily comfort.
While the Organic clutch would have offered me more driving comfort it can't handle constant shifting without overheating. My driving application is why I chose that chutch. I recently did Kartboy shifter bushings and a Group N trans mount. Both helped exponentially.
+Caribbean GTR not sure what kind of car you're talking about, with 280 HP coming on boost @ 2,000rpm. The stock turbo (VF-40) on this car makes closer to 250 HP and doesn't come on boost until 3,000rpm.
Always loved these, my mate had one here in Australia, they're called 'Liberty' here, the Back Lights gives it a much needed look of sophistication, very European luxury not the usual Japanese quirkiness or their awful sense of proportions in 90% of their 4 door cars. I think I heard a reviewer somewhere say the guy who designed this was stolen from Alfa Romeo and I'd believe that as it's the most European looking Subaru there was. And yeah as they said, this is the adult's WRX. That 3.0L Boxer engine always sounded great but with some Exhaust Tuning it's down right incredible, it thrums.
I missed out on number 155 for work. Since then, I've explained to fellow transporters that for them a car is a car, and for me I can spot the obscure or special cars, so to me it means more. Many of them get it now, and they never really know what I may want to try depending on the trip. I once chose a Smart Fortwo over a Mustang GT. Another time I was thrilled to drive an '89 Geo Metro five-door manual. They had no idea what an Isuzu Vehicross was. I'm lucky to have a job that gets me into all sorts of different machines, new and old, at random. The interior of the regular Legacy GT with the faux wood, tan seats and lower dash, and silver center console breaks up the interior monotony of these cars. The oxblood seats in the Spec B were different for sure, but having an otherwise dull black-and-silver dash doesn't have the same richness of the other Legacy's. Honestly, as superficial as it might be, I'd probably swap the dash out of the Spec B if only to make it less boring. With that said, I still think that this generation of Legacy is one of the best looking Subaru designs ever, inside and out. The Sebring-esque replacement definitely helped cement that.
+ScottyLagoosh I transport cars for a living, along with other transporters. I missed out on driving on of these cars. I love the chance to drive anything once no matter what it is. That's the main point. Got carried away otherwise.
came here to see what car caught up with my 2.0 wrx! no my wrx is not stock he ran out of turbo around 5k rpms his font lights were next to my rear passengers door. my turbo spools around 3.1k and sticks all the way to 6.5k revs i did not expect a liberty to keep up with me by that much.
I bought a tuned '08 specB with 90k miles on it last year. Love it to the moon and back. Believe it or not I bought those exact Konig rims for a previous car ('06 Scion tC) Did I mention I love my specB?
I have the 04 b4 which never seems to be reviewed. Jap import. 2.0 280hp. Bilstein suspension as standard. Have it 6 years and just cant part with it. Just fitted a front strut brace too.
in 07 they made even less and offered the 6 speed from the STi while also giving you the SI-Drive feature. to my understanding from all of my research they made less than 300 in 2007 because they didn't market the option and nobody bought them. I currently own one. also the only year they offered the Blue inserts similar to that of an STi interior. I upgraded my suspension even further with BC Coilovers as well as a wider wheel set. maybe you should come take mine for a test drive? ;) ;) ;)
Daniel Perry Interesting! I actually had to look this one up. Built in 2002 and it looks like Subaru intended on building 400 but didn't even make that many. Very rare car indeed.
Chance Hales In 2002 Subaru made the S401 STI Legacy, but they also made a Japan-only S402 Legacy in 2008 that is the same generation as the Spec.B (BL5/BP5 Gen 4) reviewed here. It had a whole host of interior and exterior changes, as well as some interesting mechanical changes like a twin-scroll turbo. They really went to town on it: * Unique twin-scroll turbo (282hp/289lb-ft 2000-4800RPM) * Twin-tip STI exhaust and muffler (S402 engraved) * Brembo monoblock 6-pot front (silver, STI logo) * Brembo 2-pot rear * Exclusive BBS forged 18x8.0J aluminum wheels with STI logo * Unique engine cover (with S402 ornament) * STI tuned ECU * 6 speed manual transmission * STI tuned Bilstein dampers * STI springs * STI pillow ball bushings rear suspension links (F/R lateral link) * 13:1 steering rack * STI flexible tower bar * STI flexible lower arm bar * STI flexible floor bar * STI brake hoses * Brembo 18" 2-piece front rotors * Brembo 17" rear rotors * 235/40-18 Potenza RE050A * Unique front grille * Unique front fender * Unique side mirrors (metal style) * Bi-xenon headlamps with pop-up washer * STI carbon front underspoiler with rubber spoiler lip * STI trunk spoiler * STI/s402 trunk ornament * Unique electroluminescent gauges (260 km/hr dash cluster with illuminated STI logo in speedo) * STI push-start engine switch (STI logo) * STI steering wheel * Exclusive leather shift knob (STI logo) * Exclusive leather seats (gray-black with gray stitching and s402 logo) * 8-way power for driver & passenger seats * Serial number plate * Unique door trim * Unique interior panels (carbon center console cover) * Unique shift ring * Unique cup holder ring * Unique cup holder illumination (red) * Unique side sill plates (aluminum with S402 logo) * STI carpet mat * Leather S402 owner's manual holder
There are two different Legacy Spec.B one has the 2.0 turbo and the other 3.0 EZ30. EZ30 got the STI 6 speed manual transmission but I don't think the 2.0 got that transmission.
Quite surprised at his comments regarding steering feel. I have a 3.0r spec B and the feel is fantastic. Always know exactly what the front and rear of the car is doing. Maybe a different setup between this and the 3.0 n/a I dunno
It could do with better wheels. Subaru really should have developed this car more and kept it in the lineup. But when dealers push them to the back of the lot, no one knew they were there. If I could go back to 2005/06, I'd get the GT Wagon and the SpecB sedan, both with 3 pedals. There really isn't much on the market today in the sub $36k price bracket.
I feel it worth noting that since this was shot the owner has installed a Cusco Power crossmember brace and a power steering brace which may have given him better steering feel.
Like others have asked, I'd love to hear someone's opinion who's driven both a Legacy GT or Spec B and a Mazdaspeed6, and compare the two cars. Any thoughts? Both seem like great fun sedans, not many turbocharged awd sedans on the market not being made by German Luxury brands
thanks for the input sentienthalo1. You've said a lot of stuff I've hear in the past so it's great to have it validated by someone who has driven both. I wish clean manual trans Legacy GTs and MS6s werent' so rare.
Alex George I've driven Liberty 3.0R and GT Spec.Bs as well as stock and a mate's modified Mazda6 MPS (MazdaSpeed). The 6 definitely has more feel and is more of a sleeper but the Spec.B has the much better gearbox (assuming it's an STi 6-speed), feels quicker and is quicker in both iterations despite being down on power (because the Mazda weighs over 1600kg IIRC), and the Bilstein suspension components make it feel much more composed than the stock 3.0R and GT respectively, and about on par with the 6. However, the traditional on-limit Subaru understeer is still ever-present. You can very easily clean that up with a stiffer rear sway. AWD system superiority of course goes to Subaru, but the Mazda's system is perfectly fine for everyday use. Objectively the Subaru is the better car but the Mazda is a bit of an oddball and I do like that about it. I'd still probably get the Liberty though, with the flat-6 instead of the EJ25 as it's a more interesting engine, and it makes a cracking noise.
I'm not sure, but I think those of us in the US didn't get a 3.0R with a manual, but in my opinion that would be more desirable for instant torque (no turbo lag). I'd love a 3.0R wagon with a six speed (I think we still call the wagon version of the legacy a legacy). The rarity of the Speed6 is definitely something it has going for it.
***** I personally reckon "torque" is the wrong word. Throttle response is a more accurate term, and the power delivery of the EZ30 is also very smooth and linear. When you're not launching it the 3.0R feels every bit as quick if not quicker than the GT until the latter comes on boost.
Nup! Uk " New Zealand " Australia sold it. . We also got a sti version . This comes with brembos " sti mags " front lip " sti six speed " 30hp more than spec b
And faster. Wrx of the same era only had the 2.0 and made like 227 hp. The Legacy, even only the gt model had the 2.5 turbo and made 250 hp. That would walk a wrx
Nick DiNunzio either way they are all cool cars. would love the leather interior though. there is also a very rare sti version which i have never seen in person. only a few hundred made. that is a monster
I have a 50 Trim/TD06. It just needs meth injection or ethanol to really unlock its power potential. I'm running 21lbs of boost to 7500rpm. No drop off
You probably drove it hard too. Drive anything hard and the mpg will drop significantly. Remember when top gear compared a Prius flat out at the track with a BMW M3 following? The M3 did better because it wasn't being pushed.
Nakke144 I owned 08' version with 6MT for 4 years now. MPG are in 15 when pushed in the city. You can easily get 28MPG at 70MPH on the highway. Stage 1 on 235 Star specs. On more MPG friendly tire setup I was getting 30MPG when driven smart
Jason Wang Ah, so you like wide-body sedans. I have a wide-body sedan, and I personally don't really like it because it's not easy getting into tight spaces + the added weight of the thickness.
"Man handle?" You kidding? This steer so nice and effortlessly! And the clutch is perfect, not soft like you're driving a Honda Civic. This review was boring and didnt express the true joy of driving this car. What new car can you buy this cheap that gives this much performance? Even like just the Legacy GT? Probably only another Subaru (WRX).
+James Cullen The 2006 model year (initial year) was 5 speed. From 2007 on to 2009 all Spec.B's came 6 speed. The 6 speeds are almost comparable to the STI 6 speed but lack DCCD.
I can buy a 2006 Legacy GT Spec B right now, it has about 113,007 miles on it and its listed for 10,900 Canadian Dollars. I really want to buy it but it has work done to it and I dont know if it would be a good idea to take this risk as a student. It looks sooo sooo clean though. Please give me Advice. www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2006-subaru-legacy-gt-spec-b-rare-and-unique/1194858863?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true Thats the link to the car and this is the work thats done to it in 2011. - Blouch 380XT 8cm Turbo - Deatschwerks 740CC Fuel Injectors - Deatschwerks Fuel Pump - HKS Silent Hi-Power Exhaust - Perrin Front Mount Intercooler - Cobb Lightweight Main Pulley - Cobb XLE Bypass Valve - Snow Performance Water/Meth Injection - Goodridge Brake Line Kit Please give me yours opinions.
I would suggest you get a 3.0 version as a student. Turbo might become a tricky part after 100k miles. Once it had problem, it hurts your wallet badly. But if you have money and time to play around, go for it.
Thank you for replying to me. I didn't end up buying it, I realized it wasn't a good idea. What car would you recommend I get ? I live in Canada I just want something reliable
The BEST looking legacy ever. Not the garbage Subaru is making now *sigh*
I agree. I loved my 05 legacy :) they look awful now a days
My '07 just blew the motor' rip
The new legacy I think is actually decent looking, however the wrx, they flipped on
@Triple Confirmation who is the designer? i’m interested in reading more about that
I really like the review as I am a Legacy Spec B Owner as well. My only grip is that you said 07-09 are more standardized where the 07 actually only came in 1 color combination as well, Dark Grey with a Black and Blue Interior. Someone looked up the sales for the car and it is believed that there are only 437 07's in the country. It was not until 08 where they added multiple color options. It really is a fun sleeper car and the cops pay me no attention! Thanks for the great video!
Well this just makes me want to search endless hours to get one. Have been waiting to see this review and you guys really make me want to get one! Please keep doing these vids! You guys are probably one of the very few car review shows I watch now.
Crisanto Pineda Thank you! We're glad to have you with us and are pleased to know you're enjoying our Fast Blast series. Glad our work has sent you car-searching and we hope you find something you love. Lots more on the way!
Hope you got one! I got mine 6 years ago for 6K Canadian, 130K kms, one owner. Good luck finding one these days, especially one that's stock. I do love that's a rare car to see though, it's more rare than an STi.
07 specB with the Sti 6spd and those gorgeous seats is the ultimate USDM Subaru IMO
Check out the sti version Australia got , with black sport sears
Seats
My parents had a 2.5GT (pretty similar to a spec b,) when I was a kid, and I had no idea it was a cool car. Just a few months after they sold it, I started getting really into cars, and started to realize the car I had sat in for the past few years was an amazing sleeper.
The bad news is we had replaced it with a Ford Edge at that point :'(
It is because of you boys they traded for the family car Edge :(
I hope the survivor's guilt isn't too bad lol :'D
find it and get it back
@@henry6777 100%...my brother and I were just reaching driving age back then 😅.
@@takumikid I wish! At least now I have a fun hot hatch myself, so I can scratch that itch to an extent.
I understand they also put the brakes from the STI on this car. And now they don't even offer a single turbo motor on the Legacy. Sometimes I just can't figure out what Subaru is trying to do...
In Australia we have the sti version . Brembos " sti suspension " sti front lip and 270 hp
Sti six speed
Barcrrt the GT version is turbo
Romario Lawrence They no longer make a GT Legacy.
i think the goledn era for the legacy is from 96 to 09 persoonally
I actually love it when I see reviews on RUclips of older cars since we see reviews of new cars everywhere all the time so keep up the good work, I would love to see you review a VW Passat r36 wagon since its hard to find a review on them, but they didn't sell in America I don't think so it might be hard to get haha
I have owned #17 for the last three years and love it! My thought process was similar to this owner's when purchasing this car as I wanted something that had more of a 'grown-up' look but could still perform. I'm surprised no mention was made to the red brick leather seats when speaking about the interior. This was another unique selling point for me.
#86 here, agree on all points.
I recently bought a 2006 6 speed manual spec B sedan with an upgraded exhaust.
Perfect review! I just bought an 06 GT sedan, not the spec B, but with all the mods that have been done it might as well be one. Love the car, super fun to drive, quiet interior despite the fact that its such a rough ride. Now I just need to install an aftermarket radio for bluetooth and Ipod...
Hey! Random since this comment was 5 years ago but I got an 06 LGT a year ago and I've loved every mile. You still have the car?
@@anthony3970 I just picked up an 05 4 months ago and love it!
@@rwilson7201 about to grab an 04 gt premium pack, any problems with yours yet?
@@motwhom3230 nothing major but a few things here and there:radiator, idler pulley, window switch, a/c expansion valve are a few that come to mind. It always starts and has never left me on the side of the road. I have put 15k miles on so far.
Love these Fast Blast reviews! Thanks for the content!
I bought #375 the day it arrived at the dealership and was lucky to be there when it arrived. I'm approaching 198Kmi on it and still love the car. Like Sami, I blew the engine but did it on a road course. With a Stage 1 tune, I drove from MD to Cleveland several times averaging 30 mpg. Since then, I have a built engine with 387whp/393lbft and I got 25mpg driving from MD to NC, and I still get 20-21mpg in everyday commuting. Love the car.
I agree with some of the steering feel in the review, and you do have to fight a little in the corners. 2006 was before you could alter the diff. Still, I love the car. I'm in the market for a new car, but I'm hard pressed to find something that I'd enjoy driving as much!
Great job offering critique of oem aspects along with the updates.
I appreciate the video you guys made just to be different from my fellow Subaru friends that have a WRX or STI I went with a Legacy GT since I couldn't find a spec b in my area and have loved it since I got it last year 😀
Spec B...Dream Car!!!!
I had an 07 and can definitely agree with Todd on the feel, mine was fully stock and I really didn't care for the steering feel. It pulled hard in Sport# but under acceleration you get even less feel and it's very much like a muscle car in those regards.
Overall I preferred the looks of the Legacy but the STI is a much nicer driver's car
there needs to be more reviews of this generation of legacy's. i can only ever really find either basic overviews of these generation models or just the legacys from 2013 and up
really enjoying the "fast blast" videos. Keep up the good work!
I just bought a JDM 2001 Blitzen Legacy Wagon twin turbo and I'm in love. My girlfriend thought very little of it until she drove it. Now she's buying her own.
I can't wait for the Hawkeyes to come out. I will be buying another for sure.
Love this segment. Keep up guys.
Best Car I Ever Owned!!!! By Far. Love them. Rally Crossed it in the winter, Autocross in the summer. Fast reliable Beast. Mine was only at ~260hp at the wheels but ran a 13.3 1/4 with a perfect launch.
cool car, like it alot
love the camera shots nice work
Great review! The Perrin Positive Steering Response Kit has been the best upgrade on my Euro model so far. Anti-sway bars next.
1stmissingsnowman what did that do for your ride? What other mods can be done to a legacy?
I agree!! I'm looking specifically for the 06 Spec B. I know the 07+ Spec B have the six speed, but I want those red seats! I currently have a 05 Legacy GT Limited 5EAT. It is modded with complete catless downpipe & up pipe, dyno tuned. Its super fun, and I love it! But I'm definitely wanting to row through the gears with a stick shift. In my opinion I think the LGT sounds better then certain WRXs & STIs. Obviously depending on the exhaust setup.
having owned a 2007 Legacy non turbo 5sp i will have to totally disagree about the steering feel. i found that car to be incredibly communicative and an absolute riot in any kind of bad weather. these things turn snowstorms into playgrounds real quick lol. thank you for doing this video, though. i've always wanted one off these awesome sleepers.
Steering feel in Subarus is a bushing choice. The steering rack bushings and the suspension arm bushings bring a ton of feel and precision into the steering. It's a night and day difference.
You guys make the best videos
The Spec B's have always had a soft spot with me and a few of my friends. I've always been a sucker for sleepers. One of my friends is trying to off load his 2015 WRX to pick one up.
Had a standard 2008 Legacy GT. One of my favorite cars of all time.
this is is really really nice...i didn't even know this spec existed until today...
Picked up mine a little over a year ago. Not perfect but a great car. Best part. No one notices it. Even with a full exhaust it blends right in. Even my wingless impreza gets more attention
When I was searching for my first car, the GT Spec B was one of my top choices. Sadly, they were all out of my price range
My sister and BIL have an '09 spec.B and a Ferrari 328 side-by-side in their garage. Ask them which one is more fun to drive and they wouldn't be able to give you a clear-cut answer. Based on that, I'd say this car acquits itself quite well.
Nice review, I've always been interested in getting one of these instead of an impreza. I prefer the more grown up look. Please do a review of another great awd car. 04-08 B6/B7 Audi S4.
This is the best looking Legacy to date. This one makes about 420 FW HP, hence the reason it comes on boost at 3500 RPM which is quite acceptable. This is not your 280 HP small turbo that will come on at 2000+ rpm, however, 4000+ rpm for boost in 1st gear means the turbo is not properly sized. Improper compressor a/r ratio. It also has the wrong clutch. ACT makes a street kit HDSS that will handle that torque and give you daily comfort.
While the Organic clutch would have offered me more driving comfort it can't handle constant shifting without overheating. My driving application is why I chose that chutch. I recently did Kartboy shifter bushings and a Group N trans mount. Both helped exponentially.
+Caribbean GTR not sure what kind of car you're talking about, with 280 HP coming on boost @ 2,000rpm. The stock turbo (VF-40) on this car makes closer to 250 HP and doesn't come on boost until 3,000rpm.
Good work guys
could you please do a review of the 2008/9 spec B
Which Subaru Liberty is the most reliable in terms of engine, head gasket from 2007 to 2010?
Always loved these, my mate had one here in Australia, they're called 'Liberty' here, the Back Lights gives it a much needed look of sophistication, very European luxury not the usual Japanese quirkiness or their awful sense of proportions in 90% of their 4 door cars.
I think I heard a reviewer somewhere say the guy who designed this was stolen from Alfa Romeo and I'd believe that as it's the most European looking Subaru there was.
And yeah as they said, this is the adult's WRX. That 3.0L Boxer engine always sounded great but with some Exhaust Tuning it's down right incredible, it thrums.
I missed out on number 155 for work. Since then, I've explained to fellow transporters that for them a car is a car, and for me I can spot the obscure or special cars, so to me it means more. Many of them get it now, and they never really know what I may want to try depending on the trip. I once chose a Smart Fortwo over a Mustang GT. Another time I was thrilled to drive an '89 Geo Metro five-door manual. They had no idea what an Isuzu Vehicross was. I'm lucky to have a job that gets me into all sorts of different machines, new and old, at random.
The interior of the regular Legacy GT with the faux wood, tan seats and lower dash, and silver center console breaks up the interior monotony of these cars. The oxblood seats in the Spec B were different for sure, but having an otherwise dull black-and-silver dash doesn't have the same richness of the other Legacy's. Honestly, as superficial as it might be, I'd probably swap the dash out of the Spec B if only to make it less boring. With that said, I still think that this generation of Legacy is one of the best looking Subaru designs ever, inside and out. The Sebring-esque replacement definitely helped cement that.
what are you talking about
+ScottyLagoosh I transport cars for a living, along with other transporters. I missed out on driving on of these cars. I love the chance to drive anything once no matter what it is. That's the main point. Got carried away otherwise.
Nice review guys !
That pull @ 1:40 is some great footage
I have an '05 GT with exhaust work tuned to 310HP, I like that it's a sleeper.
came here to see what car caught up with my 2.0 wrx! no my wrx is not stock he ran out of turbo around 5k rpms his font lights were next to my rear passengers door. my turbo spools around 3.1k and sticks all the way to 6.5k revs i did not expect a liberty to keep up with me by that much.
I bought a tuned '08 specB with 90k miles on it last year. Love it to the moon and back.
Believe it or not I bought those exact Konig rims for a previous car ('06 Scion tC)
Did I mention I love my specB?
I have the 04 b4 which never seems to be reviewed. Jap import. 2.0 280hp. Bilstein suspension as standard. Have it 6 years and just cant part with it. Just fitted a front strut brace too.
I honestly love riding in this car its stupid amazing in the canyon witb sami behind the wheel
With*
in 07 they made even less and offered the 6 speed from the STi while also giving you the SI-Drive feature. to my understanding from all of my research they made less than 300 in 2007 because they didn't market the option and nobody bought them. I currently own one. also the only year they offered the Blue inserts similar to that of an STi interior. I upgraded my suspension even further with BC Coilovers as well as a wider wheel set. maybe you should come take mine for a test drive? ;) ;) ;)
But I'm wondering if you guys can review an Acura TL Type S from 07-08 for fast blast reviews? That would be pretty interesting
Probably one of the most underrated cars of those years!
***** Yeah, they turned it into a whale after the 3rd gen. But now the TLX looks so bland compared to the concept model and the 3rd gen TL-S.
***** Wow. I can see you live close to me. I live in Syracuse. Do you own a TL?
Can't remember when this come out.
Great cars! I've owned a 05 legacy gt and a 08 spec-b...both were stg 2+. Awesome cars!
You know there is a Legacy Sti in Japan right? It's the B4 model, which this takes after.
Daniel Perry Interesting! I actually had to look this one up. Built in 2002 and it looks like Subaru intended on building 400 but didn't even make that many. Very rare car indeed.
Chance Hales In 2002 Subaru made the S401 STI Legacy, but they also made a Japan-only S402 Legacy in 2008 that is the same generation as the Spec.B (BL5/BP5 Gen 4) reviewed here. It had a whole host of interior and exterior changes, as well as some interesting mechanical changes like a twin-scroll turbo. They really went to town on it:
* Unique twin-scroll turbo (282hp/289lb-ft 2000-4800RPM)
* Twin-tip STI exhaust and muffler (S402 engraved)
* Brembo monoblock 6-pot front (silver, STI logo)
* Brembo 2-pot rear
* Exclusive BBS forged 18x8.0J aluminum wheels with STI logo
* Unique engine cover (with S402 ornament)
* STI tuned ECU
* 6 speed manual transmission
* STI tuned Bilstein dampers
* STI springs
* STI pillow ball bushings rear suspension links (F/R lateral link)
* 13:1 steering rack
* STI flexible tower bar
* STI flexible lower arm bar
* STI flexible floor bar
* STI brake hoses
* Brembo 18" 2-piece front rotors
* Brembo 17" rear rotors
* 235/40-18 Potenza RE050A
* Unique front grille
* Unique front fender
* Unique side mirrors (metal style)
* Bi-xenon headlamps with pop-up washer
* STI carbon front underspoiler with rubber spoiler lip
* STI trunk spoiler
* STI/s402 trunk ornament
* Unique electroluminescent gauges (260 km/hr dash cluster with illuminated STI logo in speedo)
* STI push-start engine switch (STI logo)
* STI steering wheel
* Exclusive leather shift knob (STI logo)
* Exclusive leather seats (gray-black with gray stitching and s402 logo)
* 8-way power for driver & passenger seats
* Serial number plate
* Unique door trim
* Unique interior panels (carbon center console cover)
* Unique shift ring
* Unique cup holder ring
* Unique cup holder illumination (red)
* Unique side sill plates (aluminum with S402 logo)
* STI carpet mat
* Leather S402 owner's manual holder
Sounds very similar to the Spec B. I wonder why they never sold them here. Off if they are the same thing, why they called them something different.
Chance Hales unfortunately it sounds like you don't know much about Subaru just in reading the brief dialogue
between you two.
Tony Hamre You're right, I don't. Not the obscure models sold in Japan anyway. Always learning! ;)
watching this video in 2019 i notice a sticker from a wal-mart TLE in the windshield. now thats ballsy
There are two different Legacy Spec.B one has the 2.0 turbo and the other 3.0 EZ30. EZ30 got the STI 6 speed manual transmission but I don't think the 2.0 got that transmission.
Quite surprised at his comments regarding steering feel. I have a 3.0r spec B and the feel is fantastic. Always know exactly what the front and rear of the car is doing. Maybe a different setup between this and the 3.0 n/a I dunno
It could do with better wheels. Subaru really should have developed this car more and kept it in the lineup. But when dealers push them to the back of the lot, no one knew they were there. If I could go back to 2005/06, I'd get the GT Wagon and the SpecB sedan, both with 3 pedals. There really isn't much on the market today in the sub $36k price bracket.
I feel it worth noting that since this was shot the owner has installed a Cusco Power crossmember brace and a power steering brace which may have given him better steering feel.
There are mods to improve steering feel?
Basically a more comfortable WRX 😎
Which is more fun? Fully 2.5L Mazda3 GT or base 2016 WRX?
Ilove this car! Thank you for the vid!
Patiently waiting for the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata review.
These guys will say: too much body roll, not enough intuitive steering, it needs at least 200hp ... same as the others have said
Nik B the new chassis is great and light. With 180 hp ithink it would be awesome
Garbage vehicle
All right, EverydayDriver . You win. I'll buy that car.
This makes me want to search high and low for one.
Ok guys, time someone gives you the keys to a few Audi's. Maybe a C5 RS6? Or a B7 RS4? Or just anything Audi!
I currently own an 06 2.5i sedan and an 05 GT wagon and dear God do I want a spec b
Subaru Legacy STIs are available in Japan
Justin Du Great, now I just have to wait 25 years and learn to shift with my right hand (T_T)
We have them in Australia too
"Only kids drive wrx's" My dad is 49 and drives a 2013 WRX. I guess he's still a kid at heart though lol.
Gt tuned by sti in Australia 270 hp . 30 hp gain over spec b
Hey guys, could be possible to see a review of a Audi TT?
Very cool car. I got to drive my friend's and it's very impressive.
Like others have asked, I'd love to hear someone's opinion who's driven both a Legacy GT or Spec B and a Mazdaspeed6, and compare the two cars. Any thoughts? Both seem like great fun sedans, not many turbocharged awd sedans on the market not being made by German Luxury brands
***** you, sir, are one kind gentleman
thanks for the input sentienthalo1. You've said a lot of stuff I've hear in the past so it's great to have it validated by someone who has driven both. I wish clean manual trans Legacy GTs and MS6s werent' so rare.
Alex George I've driven Liberty 3.0R and GT Spec.Bs as well as stock and a mate's modified Mazda6 MPS (MazdaSpeed).
The 6 definitely has more feel and is more of a sleeper but the Spec.B has the much better gearbox (assuming it's an STi 6-speed), feels quicker and is quicker in both iterations despite being down on power (because the Mazda weighs over 1600kg IIRC), and the Bilstein suspension components make it feel much more composed than the stock 3.0R and GT respectively, and about on par with the 6. However, the traditional on-limit Subaru understeer is still ever-present. You can very easily clean that up with a stiffer rear sway.
AWD system superiority of course goes to Subaru, but the Mazda's system is perfectly fine for everyday use.
Objectively the Subaru is the better car but the Mazda is a bit of an oddball and I do like that about it. I'd still probably get the Liberty though, with the flat-6 instead of the EJ25 as it's a more interesting engine, and it makes a cracking noise.
I'm not sure, but I think those of us in the US didn't get a 3.0R with a manual, but in my opinion that would be more desirable for instant torque (no turbo lag). I'd love a 3.0R wagon with a six speed (I think we still call the wagon version of the legacy a legacy). The rarity of the Speed6 is definitely something it has going for it.
***** I personally reckon "torque" is the wrong word. Throttle response is a more accurate term, and the power delivery of the EZ30 is also very smooth and linear.
When you're not launching it the 3.0R feels every bit as quick if not quicker than the GT until the latter comes on boost.
Legacy Spec B is great but it's really just for WRX/STi drivers who have grown old, shy, conservative and gone soft.
Was this sold in US only, or did it make out in Europe too? If you know
Nup! Uk " New Zealand " Australia sold it. . We also got a sti version . This comes with brembos " sti mags " front lip " sti six speed " 30hp more than spec b
Is this a 2.5! in New Zealand you can get the 2.0 twinscroll, with vvt on the intake and exhaust.
No it is a 2.5 turbo child.
This is a EJ25, the 2.5 liter.
Not a big fan of those rims. Love these cars, I worked with this lady who had one it was nice looking especially the way the tail lights look
wish you guys can testt drive my 2001 legacy B4 RSK twin turbo.
cool...barely remember these even existed at all
Here’s the million dollar question. How do you not blow up turbo Subarus?
Legacy Spec B is the grown up WRX.
And faster. Wrx of the same era only had the 2.0 and made like 227 hp. The Legacy, even only the gt model had the 2.5 turbo and made 250 hp. That would walk a wrx
Nick DiNunzio i have a 2.0 2004 b4 legacy. 280hp standard
Are you in the US? I don't think we got the 2.0 twin turbo
Ahh. Cool. I don't even think our 2.5 turbo specB is that fast
Nick DiNunzio either way they are all cool cars. would love the leather interior though. there is also a very rare sti version which i have never seen in person. only a few hundred made. that is a monster
I thought the spec b came with the sti 6 speed and blue inserted leather seats
The 07 onward came with the six speed. The blue Alcantara only came in 07 08-09 we had black Alcantara.
We have the sti version of this in my country
which aftermarket turbo does this car have?
I have a 50 Trim/TD06. It just needs meth injection or ethanol to really unlock its power potential. I'm running 21lbs of boost to 7500rpm. No drop off
I love these, but the fuel consumption is absolutely horrific. I once test drove one and got 10mpg lol
*****
The car i drove was pushing out something like 370bhp, i think that was the reason.
You probably drove it hard too. Drive anything hard and the mpg will drop significantly. Remember when top gear compared a Prius flat out at the track with a BMW M3 following? The M3 did better because it wasn't being pushed.
Chance Hales
Yeah, that's true.
Nakke144 I owned 08' version with 6MT for 4 years now. MPG are in 15 when pushed in the city. You can easily get 28MPG at 70MPH on the highway. Stage 1 on 235 Star specs. On more MPG friendly tire setup I was getting 30MPG when driven smart
If you reset the car's trip count and boosted the car, testing its performance of course you will get horrible mileage
Wish I could find a wagon legacy gt.
i thought it had a 6 speed?
nice car
uszlachetniacze - testy i opinie
1:46 with these upgrades you never stood a chance
Does it have seat warmers
+Alexander Matadeen yeah
God, that's nice.
Found a wagon Legacy 2.5 GT with a manual when I was detailing it.
Guys try to get your hands on that new civic type r turbo
That's only a 5 speed all spec b's had the sti 6 speed. I have driven my friends 08 before he wrecked it.
You're right that the 08 had a 6 speed. But the first year of the Spec B did not. Thanks for watching!
oh weird
KrazyFuckinCrackers1 I have a 06 model that 6 speed manual,
try and find a first gen MT tsx :D
Voice crack at 1:37
Should do a head to head to a Mazda speed 6
+Jason Wang They already said they prefer the Mazdaspeed6.
+SI0AX right. I think I remember that now.
Hope Ford comes with a Fusion ST with the Focus RS drivetrain. I'd be epic.
Jason Wang
Why? You don't like the looks of the Focus RS?
+SI0AX I'm not in love with it. The longer wheelbase would be a more compliant ride.
Jason Wang
Ah, so you like wide-body sedans. I have a wide-body sedan, and I personally don't really like it because it's not easy getting into tight spaces + the added weight of the thickness.
"Man handle?" You kidding? This steer so nice and effortlessly! And the clutch is perfect, not soft like you're driving a Honda Civic. This review was boring and didnt express the true joy of driving this car. What new car can you buy this cheap that gives this much performance? Even like just the Legacy GT? Probably only another Subaru (WRX).
why are all these american spec b's only 5 speed
+James Cullen The 2006 model year (initial year) was 5 speed. From 2007 on to 2009 all Spec.B's came 6 speed. The 6 speeds are almost comparable to the STI 6 speed but lack DCCD.
+Michael Melendez That and the taller gears! ;)
+rite2beararms that too :)
Why don't people do research first before asking these types of questions?
i see a 5 speed i thought spec b was 6
+Jack Liu 2006 had a 5 speed, with the red interrior, my 07, the 08, and 09 have the 6 speed.
Subaruwrxfan's old car
No he had a legacy gt
Clayton L He had a Spec B
Same year and model. Mine was not his though. I think his number was in the 300's.
#347 checking in!
Nice! I have the GT model and love it!
I can buy a 2006 Legacy GT Spec B right now, it has about 113,007 miles on it and its listed for 10,900 Canadian Dollars. I really want to buy it but it has work done to it and I dont know if it would be a good idea to take this risk as a student. It looks sooo sooo clean though. Please give me Advice.
www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2006-subaru-legacy-gt-spec-b-rare-and-unique/1194858863?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true
Thats the link to the car and this is the work thats done to it in 2011.
- Blouch 380XT 8cm Turbo
- Deatschwerks 740CC Fuel Injectors
- Deatschwerks Fuel Pump
- HKS Silent Hi-Power Exhaust
- Perrin Front Mount Intercooler
- Cobb Lightweight Main Pulley
- Cobb XLE Bypass Valve
- Snow Performance Water/Meth Injection
- Goodridge Brake Line Kit
Please give me yours opinions.
I would suggest you get a 3.0 version as a student. Turbo might become a tricky part after 100k miles. Once it had problem, it hurts your wallet badly. But if you have money and time to play around, go for it.
Thank you for replying to me. I didn't end up buying it, I realized it wasn't a good idea. What car would you recommend I get ? I live in Canada I just want something reliable
$15000 in oz . Sti version you yanks didn't get $20000 with 270 hp
I hope you bought the Spec B! Congrats on the find!