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Subaru XT: coupe with a turbo and four-wheel drive, what to know when buying used
Subaru XT — a wedge-shaped sports coupe produced from 1985 to 1991. It stood out with its aerodynamic body and boxer engine, and many versions came with four-wheel drive. In this article, we look at the model's features, engines, and what to check if you're after this rare car.
XT in brief
The XT is a two-door coupe with a particularly low front end and angular, aerodynamic body contours. In some markets, it was known as the Alcyone. The interior and dashboard looked very bold at the time, and some versions featured an unusual layout of controls.
Today, the XT is a rarity in Lithuania. It's sought after for its unique design and historical significance in Subaru's lineup, not as a daily driver.
Which version to choose
The model was produced once, but towards the end of production, a more powerful version, the XT6, appeared with a six-cylinder engine. The key differences for the buyer are the engine, gearbox, and type of drive.
For collector purposes, well-preserved turbocharged 1.8-litre versions and the XT6 are most sought after. The choice often comes down not to the equipment, but to the condition of the car you can find.
Engines and gearboxes
The main engine is a 1.8-litre boxer (opposite-cylinder) four-cylinder petrol engine, with a turbocharger in some versions. Later, the XT6 appeared with a 2.7-litre boxer six-cylinder engine.
Transmissions — manual or automatic. Some cars had permanent or switchable four-wheel drive, so it's essential to check the specific version of the example.
What to check when buying a used XT
First off — corrosion and body condition: check the sills, wheel arches, floor, and front end. Specific body parts, lights, and interior trim often pose the biggest issues, as they can be tricky to find.
Inspect the engine for oil leaks, cold start issues, and turbocharger condition (in turbocharged versions). Test the gearbox, clutch, and four-wheel drive, as well as whether the electrical equipment and instrument cluster work.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
XT 1,8 (su turbokompresoriumi)
1985–1991The main and best-known version with a turbo.
- 1.8-litre boxer engine with turbocharger
- Often — four-wheel drive
- Sleek, aerodynamic body
XT6
around 1988–1991More powerful version with a six-cylinder 2.7-litre engine.
- 2.7-litre boxer six-cylinder engine
- Often — four-wheel drive
- Better-equipped interior
XT generation comparison
| XT 1,8 | XT6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For collectors and enthusiasts of classic sports coupes | For those who prioritise a more powerful and quieter engine |
| Engine | 1.8-litre four-cylinder flat-four | 2.7-litre six-cylinder flat-six |
| Transmission | Often four-wheel drive | Often four-wheel drive |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ |
The XT is a rare collectible car whose value depends on its condition and originality. Before buying, make sure you can find the necessary parts.
Pros
- Distinctive, highly unique design
- The Boxster's engine and four-wheel drive transmission (in most versions)
- Rare collectible model
- Low centre of gravity and stable handling
Cons
- Hard to find body, interior and some mechanical parts
- Corrosion is a common issue with older cars
- Limited supply, tricky to assess true condition
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the Subaru XT and XT6?
The XT6 has a 2.7-litre six-cylinder boxer engine, while the more basic XT comes with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder boxer, with turbocharged versions available in some markets.
Does the XT have four-wheel drive?
Most cars came with four-wheel drive, but there are front-wheel-drive versions too, so it's worth checking individual examples.
Is the XT worth buying as a collector's item?
Yes, if you find a well-maintained, unmodified and unrepainted example. When buying, pay special attention to parts availability and body condition.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
