Subaru created the Subaru XT sports coupe to showcase its technology. Subie’s futuristic model didn’t catch on, but its rarity guarantees you’ll have the only one in town. One of the finest examples in the country is recently for sale on eBay Motors in Burbank, Calif.
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Low Drag
When the Subaru XT debuted in 1985, the company was known for ungainly 4WD models like the DL/GL wagon and Brat pickup - opens in new window or tab.. Those models prized function over form. The XT, unveiled in January 1985, landed like a UFO. Its extreme wedge body is a sharp contrast to the tractor-like utility vehicles that populated Subaru’s lineup. In fact, it claimed one of the lowest coefficients of drag on the market—a mere 0.29 Cd.
Its shape wasn’t the car’s only futuristic feature. The XT offered a height-adjustable hydropneumatic suspension, available digital dash, Subaru’s signature 4WD system with center locker, and a trip computer. The steering wheel was asymmetrical.
Joystick with 4WD Button
The XT was a fitting car to represent Subaru as its parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, was one of Japan’s leading aerospace companies. Many aircraft-inspired touches made their way into the XT. Auxiliary controls, such as lights and wipers, were located on paddles that tilted with the steering wheel position. An available dashboard featured an artificial horizon gauge design. The gear shift looked like a fighter jet’s joystick, with a red 4WD button on top resembling the trigger.
Subaru built the XT from 1985 to 1991. It was offered in front- or all-wheel-drive, and with naturally aspirated or turbocharged four-cylinders. The XT came as a six-cylinder in later years.
Unfortunately, the XT didn’t sell very well. It cost more than competing sport models, a problem exacerbated at the time by unfavorable yen-to-dollar exchange rates. Despite the avant-garde design, the XT’s drivetrain, wheelbase, suspension, and ride height matched what was offered in the Subaru GL. It was more about stunning design than outright performance.
Rescued from Obscurity
Four decades later, Subaru XTs are few and far between. Some years ago, when Subaru of America was looking for one for their own collection, the best one they could find - opens in new window or tab. was a 1986 XT 4WD Turbo model that was, tragically, an automatic. And it ended up needing a rotisserie restoration - opens in new window or tab..
The XT 4WD Turbo for sale not only comes equipped with a manual transmission - opens in new window or tab., but also has its gleaming, original paint. Furthermore, the seller, who picked up the car from the original owner in 1991, thoroughly rebuilt the engine and serviced the brakes, clutch, ignition and fuel systems. The auction shows a laundry list of new parts. The only visible flaw is a small ding on the passenger side door. But that can be repaired by a competent paintless dent repair technician without disturbing the finish.
Its $29,000 asking price may seem high for a 40-year-old Subaru with 84,000 miles. However, all the major systems were repaired. Subaru XTs don’t pop up every day—you’d have an easier time shopping for a Ferrari - opens in new window or tab. from the same era. And you would be rewarded with one of the wildest and most unique models from the 1980s.
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