Subaru Legacy GT Spec.B
2006-2009
The Legacy GT Spec.B represented Subaru's vision of a mature performance sedan, combining the turbocharged EJ255 engine with sophisticated suspension tuning. It offered a more refined alternative to the raw WRX while maintaining serious performance credentials.
Quick Take
The Legacy GT Spec.B was Subaru's high-performance sedan featuring sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and unique body styling. It offered WRX STI-derived performance in a more mature, refined package suitable for daily driving.
Best For
Key Strength
Turbocharged Boxer Character
Watch For
Reliability Concerns
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on Subaru's rally heritage and turbocharged expertise, the Spec.B was part of a brief renaissance of performance-oriented Legacy models. It drew from lessons learned in motorsport while targeting buyers who wanted performance without compromising on refinement.
Design Philosophy
The Spec.B emphasized understated aggression with subtle body modifications, larger wheels, and distinctive badging. Subaru focused on functional aerodynamics and cooling rather than flashy styling, maintaining the Legacy's mature aesthetic while hinting at its performance potential.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The turbocharged boxer-four delivers smooth, linear power with characteristic Subaru rumble. The engine provides strong midrange torque and builds power progressively, offering more refinement than the contemporary WRX while maintaining that distinctive horizontally-opposed character.
Chassis Dynamics
Sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein dampers and stiffer springs provides excellent body control without sacrificing ride quality. The symmetrical AWD system delivers confident handling in all conditions, with a slight understeer bias that can be easily managed through throttle modulation.
Sound Signature
Classic Subaru boxer rumble with a more subdued exhaust note than the WRX, creating a sophisticated growl under acceleration.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The EJ255 2.5L turbo boxer delivers 250hp with distinctive rumble and strong mid-range torque. The engine's low center of gravity and AWD system create excellent balance and traction in all conditions.
Unlike the flashier WRX STI, the Legacy GT Spec.B flies under the radar with conservative sedan styling. This makes it perfect for enthusiasts who want performance without attracting attention.
Honest Tradeoffs
The EJ255 engine suffers from well-documented head gasket issues, turbo failures, and ringland problems. These issues can result in expensive repairs that exceed the car's current value.
The cabin feels dated even for its era, with hard plastics and basic materials throughout. The infotainment system is primitive and the overall fit and finish lags behind German competitors.
Ideal Owner
Enthusiasts seeking turbocharged AWD performance in a practical sedan package, particularly those who appreciate Subaru's unique engineering philosophy.