In 1984, Subaru Tried to Outrun Its Past With the "Turbo Traction Wagon"
Subaru introduced all-wheel drive in 1972, sending it to North America two years later. By the time of the second-generation Leone, somebody has also figured out that the wagon should project a different image than all those GL-10 sedans or hatchbacks. Thus came the Turbo (Traction) Wagon name, because nothing could talk to the customer of 1983 quite like a TURBO 4x4 vinyl pack with the promise of adventures.
Still, Subaru's all-wheel drive station wagon was clearly a huge step forward from the brand's previous offerings.
For starters, Subaru's ancient 1.8-liter flat-four got multi-port fuel injection and a turbocharger that went to full boost at 1800rpm. The result was 95 horsepower and a zero-to-sixty run in 13.5 seconds with the optional three-speed automatic gearbox.
Subaru's turbo wagon also offered high ground clearance accompanied by tons of body roll, as well as button-engaged all-wheel drive thanks to a wet hydraulic multi-plate clutch. This highly capable compact wagon had a 33-foot turning radius, but would only return 24 miles to the gallon under mixed driving conditions.
Those who chose the fully loaded version also got a fully electronic instrument cluster, one-touch power windows, fog lights, and a right rear tire that would lock up immediately in any emergency braking situation. In a nutshell, that was Subaru for 1984.
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