Twin-Turbo JDM Car Is A Bargain Under $10,000
Twin-turbo JDM Subaru Legacy proves that a fun, turbocharged all-wheel-drive Japanese import can still be affordable for the common folk.
If someone asked you to name a twin-turbo JDM import that’s all-wheel-drive, manual, and fun, you’d likely immediately think of a Nissan Skyline GT-R. After all, the Skyline has become the ultimate poster child for JDM imports. Of course, earlier Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution models come to mind, too. While Subaru may spring to some minds, early WRX and STi models are undoubtedly on the docket. What isn’t likely to be named, but probably should be, is the humble Subaru Legacy RSK.
This 1999 Subaru Legacy RSK B4 sedan recently sold on Cars and Bids. We’re a bit sad we missed this deal, to be honest! It ticks all the boxes above but comes with a price tag that is far more approachable than even the cheapest Skyline GT-R. You still get plenty of punch courtesy of a pair of turbos, and, of course, the legendary Subaru boxer engine platform. Better still, this example only has 56,300 miles on the odometer. This is a lot of fun for a final hammer price of $8,500!
U.S. Misses out on All the Cool Cars
The U.S. did get the third-generation Subaru Legacy platform. However, we didn’t get this version. The RSK trim (short for Rally Sport Kompressor) features a twin-turbo EJ20 that produces 276 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. If you’re familiar with the Japanese manufacturer’s late-’90s “gentleman’s agreement,” though, that horsepower figure should seem a bit suspicious to you. Whatver the actual power output is, it makes its way to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
Let’s talk about the Subaru reliability stigma for a second. The EJ20 is actually a quite robust and dependable engine. Largely, the headgasket memes stem from the EJ25 found in most STi and newer WRX models. EJ20s tend to last plenty long when they’re cared for. Considering this example has only 56,300 original miles on the odometer (read as 90,600 kilometers, of course), this engine has plenty of life left in it. As far as the dependability of the five-speed manual transmission behind it, well, let’s just change the subject.
AWD Twin-Turbo JDM Fun Under $10,000
There’s no shortage of desire for cool JDM cars in the U.S. Unfortunately, this means that many of the most iconic ones come with a price tag that puts them far out of reach for most people. This Subaru Legacy RSK, though, gives us all hope. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend or you just want a budget-friendly place to start for your next track toy, this car is a phenomenal option. Unfortunately, we all missed out on this one. However, there is more to come! Better still, there are wagon versions available as well!
Ultimately, $8,500 for a virtually flawless JDM import is a crazy good deal. Especially considering the twin-turbocharged powerplant and manual transmission. There are plenty of cool under-the-radar imports out there. Just keep your eyes peeled!
Photos: Cars and Bids
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