Liberty GT Mk1
The Subaru Liberty GT Mk1 features turbocharged 2.0-liter EJ20G DOHC horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine producing 217-223 horsepower (162-164 kW) at 6000 RPM depending on market specification with water-cooled intercooler through four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission and symmetrical all-wheel-drive. The performance sedan incorporates independent suspension with MacPherson struts front and multi-link rear, ventilated disc brakes, turbocharged boxer engine delivering distinctive character with low center of gravity advantages, and practical sedan or wagon body styles providing genuine performance with everyday versatility introducing technology later famous in Impreza WRX lineage.
Liberty GT launched 1989 represents Subaru first-generation Legacy performance variant introducing turbocharged boxer engine technology and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system to mid-size sedan segment targeting enthusiast buyers seeking practical four-door or wagon configuration with genuine performance credentials competing against front-wheel-drive sport sedans with superior traction and chassis balance advantages marketed as Liberty in Australia, New Zealand, and select Asian markets while Legacy nameplate used elsewhere establishing foundation for Subaru performance reputation culminating in World Rally Championship success through 1990s featuring Japanese-market 200-horsepower specification with distinctive boxer engine soundtrack and all-weather capability creating compelling alternative to conventional turbocharged four-cylinder competitors demonstrating Subaru engineering philosophy prioritizing symmetrical drivetrain layout and horizontally-opposed engine architecture advantages.