Subaru Leone
The rugged, boxer-powered pioneer of Subaru's all-weather reputation.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.6 s
- Top speed
- 106 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Subaru Leone
The third-generation Subaru Leone, often badged simply as the 'GL' in export markets, solidified Subaru's reputation for durable, go-anywhere engineering. While the 1.8 GL was available with front-wheel drive, it shared the same EA82 boxer engine architecture that powered the brand's famous 4WD variants. Its angular 1980s styling and unique horizontally-opposed engine layout provided a lower centre of gravity than contemporary rivals, though it was prized more for utility than outright performance. As the predecessor to the Impreza, the Leone represents the final era of Subaru's quirky, utilitarian roots before the brand pivoted toward global rally dominance.
Subaru Leone specs
The Subaru Leone produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.6 seconds and has a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).
| Make | Subaru |
|---|---|
| Model | Leone |
| Trim | 1.8 GL |
| Years | 1984–1994 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $11,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre SOHC flat-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.6 s |
| Top speed | 106 mph (170 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,075 kg (2,370 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 84 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Subaru Leone worth?
A typical Subaru Leone is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $9,000 (about £1,900 – £6,700).
Its original price when new was about $11,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Subaru Leone rarity in CarSpot
The Subaru Leone is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 10 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Subaru Leone fun facts
- In North America, Subaru didn't use the 'Leone' name for this generation, instead marketing the cars by their trim levels like DL, GL, and GL-10.
- The Leone was the first mass-produced Japanese car to offer four-wheel drive in a standard passenger car body style.
- The 1.8-litre EA82 engine was one of the first Subaru units to move from an overhead valve (OHV) design to a single overhead cam (SOHC) configuration.