The Good
The 2005 Subaru Legacy offered a blend of practicality and fun. Its all-wheel drive provides confident handling (emotional), while its reliability and comfortable ride appeal to the practical buyer. Performance from the GT models is engaging, and fuel efficiency is reasonable for an AWD vehicle. It represents good overall value for money.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2005 Subaru Legacy include potential head gasket issues, especially in the 2.5i models. Turbo lag can be noticeable in the GT. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Check for oil leaks and listen for unusual engine noises before purchasing.
2005 Subaru Legacy: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated 4-cylinder (2.5i models)
- 2.5L SOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder (2.5GT models)
- Horsepower:
- 2.5i: 168 hp
- 2.5GT: 250 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.5i: 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
- 2.5GT: 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.5i: 9.0 seconds
- 2.5GT: 6.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (with trailer brakes)
- Trim-Level Features:
- 2.5i: Standard features include all-wheel drive, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player.
- 2.5GT: Adds the turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, sport seats, and upgraded interior trim.
- 2.5GT Limited: Includes leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a sunroof, and automatic climate control.
The GT models also came with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.5i mainly came with a 4-speed automatic but a 5 speed manual was optional. The wagon versions offered increased cargo space and versatility. The Legacy offered a well rounded package for buyers looking for reliability and performance.
2005 Subaru Legacy Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
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| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
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| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Subaru Legacy Have?
Rust is a concern, especially in areas with road salt. Check the undercarriage, wheel wells, and body panels for corrosion. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting or slipping. It's important to have the transmission fluid regularly serviced. There have been recalls related to airbags and fuel system components, so check the vehicle's VIN for outstanding recall work. Long-term, the suspension components may wear out, requiring replacement of struts, bushings, and ball joints. Regular maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly can help extend the vehicle's lifespan.
How long will the 2005 Subaru Legacy last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and front airbags. Side airbags were optional on some trims. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2005 Legacy good ratings in frontal offset and side impact crash tests. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings vary depending on the specific test, but generally, the Legacy performed well.
Optional features included a sunroof, leather seats, and automatic climate control. The 2.5GT models added sporty features like alloy wheels and sport seats. While not cutting-edge by today's standards, the Legacy offered a solid set of safety features for its era. Its appeal primarily lies in its all-wheel-drive system and overall reliability rather than advanced technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Subaru Legacy Prices and Market Value
2005 Subaru Legacy Cost of Ownership
2005 Subaru Legacy Fuel Efficiency
2005 Subaru Legacy Safety Rating
NHTSA
2005 Subaru Legacy Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Subaru Legacy Compare to Other Vehicle?
Price-wise, the Legacy was generally comparable. If all-wheel drive isn't a necessity, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry are excellent alternatives, known for their reliability and lower running costs. The Mazda 6 is a good choice for those prioritizing driving dynamics. If you want something similar but maybe more modern, consider a newer Subaru Impreza or Mazda 3 with AWD as they offer more current tech and similar practicality.
Ranks #467 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 467 | 2005 Subaru Legacy | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Subaru Legacy a Good Vehicle?
Lana on June 17, 2020
What a wonderful birthday present!This vehicle was purchased for me by my dad. He went thru Lyman Motors. They did an engine rebuild on this vehicle. So, even though its 15 years old, and has quite a few miles, it was for a fair price! And, with the engine rebuilt I know it will go for another 100k miles easy! Lyman made this buying experience so much fun for us! He is such a wondering person! I recommend Lyman Motors to everyone whether you are looking for a new or used car, he will help you find exactly what you are looking for!
JRC1015 on December 9, 2019
Best car I have ever owned!!!If you need lots of room and back seats that fold completely, then the subaru legacy wagon is the right car for you! I have had mine for 5 year now and I'm the second owner of the car. It has already had a new engine put in shortly before I purchased it. The Legacy wagon has never let me down and always keeps on going. I highly recommend The Subaru Legacy Wagon
smittysautoinc on May 24, 2019
Proven reliable during the short time we've had itStrong motor for a 2.5L 4 cyl, runs great, smooth ride, comfortable and practical interior. Second Subaru we have owned. It is important to keep up with the gaskets as they tend to leak given time. Easy fix.
cespi on March 27, 2019
please stay away from older modelssi bough this 05 i limited from a private seller who showed me all the service records, but after 8 months of owning it was nothing but nightmare one problem after another till this day i mean car runs well but i gave up not gonna spend anymore money. Sad but true
long_time_Subaru_owner on November 17, 2018
One of the last over-designed carsI have had two Subarus, and read an article in Business Week that the Legacy station wagons 2005-2007 were over-designed, and they were right, it drives like a poor man's Porsche, and with very good gas mileage. Only design flaw is the Porsche aspect, the boxer engine means it will need a new gasket if you wish to keep it more than 5 years.
AWDl0v3R on July 24, 2018
Snow MachineAwesome car that is reliable if taken care of and is fast from factory, and even quicker when tuned. The car is comfortable and has good features for older technology. The best mechanics are the Symetrical All-wheel drive system with a center & rear differential and the VF40 turbo which is bigger than the WRX STi. Overall, great all season vehcile for practicality, as well as, some fun on backroads.
SubieDevotee on July 20, 2018
Added fun to commuting !Fun from day 1, I loved this car! Comfortable seats, great audio system and instrument cluster. Cabin lighting is perfect?convenient and not distracting when it?s needed most
Shazzam121 on March 21, 2018
I'm Gonna Miss This CarAbsolutely an excellent vehicle. Mine is a 2.5GT Wagon, and there's nothing like it under $60k. Fast, fun, practical, everything you need rolled into one car.
Blynn on March 1, 2018
Love Subaru legacyThis is the 3rd used Subaru legacy I've ever bought. I love this car. It needed some work when I bought this used one specifically, but that wasn't because of the car, it was because if the owner before having lack of care for the car. But overall this car is amazing and it's strong! I feel safer in this car than I did in my SUV and my sedan before it. Legacy's are reliable, durable, and all around amazing! Not to mention one of the best cars to own in Colorado.
Bsburner on January 16, 2018
Most reliable car i have owned!Purchased this car at 83k miles and drove it to 100k with absolutely no problems! It drives great in the snow and has never had any problems. Definitely the most practical and reliable car I have ever owned.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.