1991 Subaru Loyale Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs
The 1991 Subaru Loyale, part of a lineage stretching back to the Subaru Leone, represents the final iteration of Subaru's compact car before the Impreza arrived. Available as a sedan, wagon, and the rugged BRAT-like pickup (though the Loyale nameplate didn't officially cover the BRAT), it was produced from 1987 to 1994. Key trims included the base DL, the more upscale GL, and the sporty RX. Popularity stemmed from its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a rarity in its class, making it a go-to for those needing all-weather capability and adventurous spirit.
The Good
The 1991 Loyale's primary advantage is its standard all-wheel drive, offering confidence in all conditions and appealing to the practical buyer. Its robust build promises reliability, while its utilitarian design and surprisingly spacious interiors provide comfort. For the emotional buyer, its quirky charm and go-anywhere attitude are undeniable.
The Bad
Owners should watch out for rust, particularly in wheel wells and rocker panels. Head gasket leaks are a common, albeit often repairable, issue. Older models can also suffer from aging electrical components and carburetor problems if not properly maintained.
1991 Subaru Loyale: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The primary engine for the 1991 Subaru Loyale was a 1.8-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine (EA82 engine family).
- Horsepower: Typically produced around 90-97 horsepower, depending on the specific configuration and emissions equipment. Higher trims or turbocharged variants, if available in certain markets for this model year, might have offered slightly more.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy varied with drivetrain (FWD or AWD) and transmission. Expect figures in the range of approximately 20-25 MPG in the city and 25-30 MPG on the highway. These figures are approximate for the era and can be significantly impacted by maintenance and driving conditions.
- 0-60 Times: Given the modest horsepower and the emphasis on durability over speed, 0-60 MPH times were generally leisurely, often in the 12-15 second range.
- Towing Capacity: Towing capacity was not a primary design focus for the Loyale. Small loads might have been manageable, but it was not equipped with dedicated towing packages or robust towing ratings like larger vehicles. It was generally not advertised or recommended for significant towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- DL (Base): Typically included power steering, intermittent wipers, AM/FM radio, and standard cloth upholstery. Air conditioning was often optional.
- GL (Mid-Range): Added features such as a more premium interior, power windows and door locks, body-colored mirrors, and sometimes alloy wheels.
- RX (Sport/Performance): This trim, if offered, often featured sporty cosmetic enhancements, potentially a more performance-oriented suspension, and sometimes a turbocharged engine option (though less common by 1991 for the Loyale nameplate itself, more so in earlier generations or specific markets).
- Wagon Variants: Offered increased cargo space and often came with roof rails, making them popular for utility.
- Standard Features Across Most Trims: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was a standard offering on most, if not all, 1991 Loyale models, a significant differentiator. Manual transmission was common, with automatic transmissions available.
1991 Subaru Loyale Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1991 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Loyale |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4WD |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | GUNMA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2490 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 54.30 inches |
| Overall Length | 174.60 inches |
| Overall Width | 65.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 97.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.8-L H-4 SOHC 8V |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 3-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $10,999 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1991 Subaru Loyale Have?
The 1991 Subaru Loyale, while generally considered reliable for its era, does have some frequently reported issues that owners should be aware of. One of the most prevalent concerns across Subaru models of this vintage is the potential for head gasket leaks. While not necessarily catastrophic, these leaks can lead to coolant loss, overheating, and eventually more significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. The horizontally opposed engine design can make accessing the head gaskets more labor-intensive and thus, more costly to repair. Another significant issue is rust. Given its age, the Loyale is susceptible to corrosion, particularly in areas prone to road salt and moisture. Common rust spots include the rocker panels, wheel wells, rear quarter panels, and the undercarriage. Thorough inspection for rust is crucial before purchasing a used model. Electrical gremlins can also surface with age; things like faulty window regulators, dashboard warning lights that are inaccurate, or issues with the radio can occur. Carburetor issues may also arise in models that haven't been regularly maintained or were converted from fuel injection. While specific recalls for the 1991 model year are not extensively documented as major widespread safety defects that are widely publicized today, it's always advisable to check with Subaru or the NHTSA database for any outstanding recalls that might apply. Long-term reliability hinges heavily on consistent maintenance. Owners who have diligently followed service schedules, changed fluids regularly, and addressed minor issues proactively tend to experience fewer major problems. However, the age of the vehicle means that wear and tear on components like the suspension, exhaust system, and transmission are inevitable and may require attention over time. The all-wheel-drive system itself is generally robust, but it's not immune to issues if neglected, such as worn CV joints or transfer case problems.
How long will the 1991 Subaru Loyale last?
Based on owner reports and the general reputation of Subaru vehicles from this era, a well-maintained 1991 Subaru Loyale can reasonably be expected to reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Some dedicated owners have reported even higher mileage, pushing towards 300,000 miles. The long-term durability is significantly influenced by regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear items (belts, hoses, brakes), and addressing issues like head gasket leaks or rust proactively. The horizontally opposed engine design, while known for its lower center of gravity, can be more susceptible to internal wear over extreme mileage if oil changes are neglected. The all-wheel-drive system is a strong point for longevity, but drivetrain components like the clutch (if manual) and CV joints will eventually require attention. Weaknesses over time are primarily the aging of rubber components, susceptibility to rust, and the potential for head gasket issues, which can become more frequent as the engine accumulates miles.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1991 Subaru Loyale represents automotive technology of its time, meaning built-in tech and entertainment features are quite basic by modern standards. Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player. Higher trim levels or optional packages might have offered a more advanced stereo system with more speakers. Features like CD players were not available. Built-in navigation systems were nonexistent. Driver-assistance features were virtually absent; this was an era before advanced safety aids were common. The primary driver assistance was the excellent visibility offered by the vehicle's design and the inherent stability provided by the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which helped in adverse conditions. Safety features were limited to the essentials of the time. Standard safety equipment generally included seat belts (often manual lap and shoulder belts), crumple zones, and energy-absorbing steering columns. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard feature on most, if any, 1991 Loyale models and was likely a rare option, if available at all. Airbags were also not standard and were only beginning to appear as optional equipment on some vehicles in this class during the early 1990s; it's unlikely the Loyale was equipped with them. Crash-test ratings for vehicles from this era are not as readily available or standardized as they are today through organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS. While the Loyale was built to meet the safety regulations of its time, it would not be expected to perform comparably to modern vehicles in crash tests. Its safety largely relied on passive restraint systems and structural integrity that was advanced for the late 1980s and early 1990s, but rudimentary by today's standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1991 Subaru Loyale Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1991 Subaru Loyale had a price range roughly between $10,000 and $15,000, depending on the body style (sedan, wagon) and trim level (DL, GL). The RX trim, if equipped with optional features or a turbo, could push the price slightly higher. As a classic vehicle today, its resale value is highly variable. Well-maintained examples, especially wagons in good condition or sought-after trims, can command anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 or more. However, many examples are sold for under $1,000 due to age, condition, and mileage. Depreciation has been significant, as is typical for most vehicles of this age. Factors affecting resale value include the presence of rust (a major detractor), the condition of the engine and transmission, maintenance history, mileage, and the desirability of the specific trim and body style. The standard all-wheel drive remains a strong selling point for its utility.
1991 Subaru Loyale Cost of Ownership
The 1991 Subaru Loyale is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and low market value. Fuel costs are moderate, with its 1.8-liter engine achieving reasonable MPG, especially in highway driving. Maintenance can be relatively inexpensive for routine tasks, but specialized repairs like head gasket replacement can be costly due to labor. Parts availability is generally good through aftermarket suppliers. Overall, for a vehicle that offers all-wheel drive capability, its long-term ownership costs are quite manageable, making it an economical choice for those who can find a well-maintained example.
1991 Subaru Loyale Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
15.90 gallons
City Mileage
24 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
29 miles/gallon
1991 Subaru Loyale Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1991 Subaru Loyale Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1991 Subaru Loyale Insurance
Insurance for a 1991 Subaru Loyale is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1991 Subaru Loyale Compare to Other Sedan?
In its class, the 1991 Subaru Loyale primarily competed with other compact sedans and wagons like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, and Ford Escort. Performance-wise, the Loyale's 90-97 horsepower was generally comparable to or slightly less than its front-wheel-drive competitors, but its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive gave it a significant edge in traction and all-weather capability, a feature few rivals offered as standard. In terms of features, the Loyale was often basic, matching its peers with standard amenities like power steering and AM/FM radios, with higher trims offering power windows and locks. However, advanced tech or comfort features found in some competitors (like more refined interiors or optional premium audio) might have been lacking. Reliability is a mixed bag. While Subarus of this era are known for their durable engines and drivetrains, they are also prone to specific issues like head gaskets and rust, which could make them less consistently reliable than a similarly aged Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, which often excel in long-term, trouble-free operation. Price-wise, the Loyale was competitive when new. Currently, used Loyales can be found at very low prices, often making them a more budget-friendly option than comparable models from Honda or Toyota, especially if AWD is a priority. Similar alternatives offering AWD in the compact class were scarce in 1991; some premium brands offered it on larger vehicles. If all-wheel drive is not a necessity, a well-maintained Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic would likely offer superior overall reliability and a more refined driving experience. If AWD is a must, other older Subarus (like an early Outback) or perhaps a Nissan Sentra GXE with optional AWD (rare) might be considered, but the Loyale remains a unique value proposition for its specific niche.
Final Verdict: Is the 1991 Subaru Loyale a Good Sedan?
The 1991 Subaru Loyale is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize all-weather capability and a go-anywhere attitude over modern amenities and cutting-edge performance. It's a practical choice for those living in snowy regions or who frequently drive on unpaved roads. It is worth buying if you can find a model with a solid, rust-free body and evidence of consistent maintenance. Buying new is obviously not an option. The used market offers the only way to acquire one. Specific trims like the wagon are more practical. It's best suited for individuals who are mechanically inclined or have access to affordable repair services, as potential issues like head gaskets or rust will require attention over time. For the right buyer, it offers significant utility for a low purchase price.
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.