Imagine stumbling upon a hidden gem in the most unexpected of places—a 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe lying forgotten in a junkyard in the scenic hills of Colorado. This Subaru, a member of the versatile Leone family, was sold in the United States from 1972 to 1994 in various body styles. But this particular model, the GL-10, stands out with its turbocharged 1.8-liter flat-four engine—an absolute powerhouse in its time. With its manual transmission and all-wheel-drive capabilities, this 1987 GL Coupe was one of the fastest Subarus available in the United States back then. However, despite being listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace at a bargain price, it failed to attract the attention of that special someone—an enthusiastic buyer. While its once-majestic glory has diminished over time due to rust and neglect, this treasure still holds an allure for those who yearn for a piece of automotive history.
Overview
Introduction to the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe
If you’re a car enthusiast with a penchant for rare finds, get ready to dive into the intriguing world of the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe. This unique gem, once a symbol of Subaru’s ambitious foray into the American market, now sits unassumingly in a junkyard in Colorado, waiting for someone to uncover its fascinating history and potential. Let’s explore what makes this rare automobile a worthy subject of intrigue and curiosity.
Brief history and background of Subaru’s Leone in the United States
Subaru, a well-established Japanese automaker, introduced its versatile Leone model to the United States in 1972, captivating car enthusiasts with its range of body styles and impressive performance. The Leone quickly gained a reputation for being reliable, practical, and capable, capturing the hearts of many American drivers. Over the course of its run in the United States, which lasted until 1994, the Leone showcased Subaru’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Now, let’s focus on one notable variant of the Leone – the GL-10 – and discover the exceptional attributes that set it apart from the rest.
Features
Description of the GL-10 trim level
As a higher trim level of the GL, the GL-10 took the Leone’s reputation for excellence to new heights. This particular 1987 model, a Turbo Liftback Coupe, boasts a striking design that combines sportiness and elegance. With its sleek lines, aerodynamic profile, and attention to detail, the GL-10 exudes a sense of sophistication that is sure to catch your eye. Step inside, and you’ll find a well-appointed interior that showcases a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and ergonomic design. From its luxurious upholstery to its spacious cabin, the GL-10 leaves no stone unturned in ensuring a premium driving experience.
Specification of the turbocharged 1.8-liter boxer-four engine
Under the hood, the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe houses a turbocharged 1.8-liter boxer-four engine. This powerplant, known for its distinctive design and exceptional performance, offers an exhilarating driving experience. The turbocharger complements the engine’s inherent characteristics, providing a significant boost in power. With its responsive throttle and impressive acceleration, the GL-10 Turbo delivers a thrilling ride that is sure to excite any driving enthusiast.
Manual transmission and all-wheel-drive system
In true Subaru fashion, the GL-10 Turbo features a manual transmission that puts you in control of the driving experience. With its precise shifts and engaging feel, the manual gearbox allows you to fully appreciate the car’s performance capabilities. Additionally, the GL-10 Turbo boasts Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in various road conditions. This advanced technology ensures that you can confidently navigate through challenging terrain or enjoy spirited drives on winding roads.
Comparison to other cars in terms of sportiness
When it comes to sportiness, the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe left a lasting impression in the automotive landscape of its time. Compared to its competitors, the GL-10 Turbo stood out with its performance-oriented features and spirited demeanor. With its turbocharged engine, manual transmission, and all-wheel-drive system, it offered a level of excitement that was rarely matched by other cars in its segment. The GL-10 Turbo truly embodied Subaru’s commitment to delivering a thrilling driving experience, setting it apart as a unique and sought-after vehicle among sporty enthusiasts.
Marketplace Listing
Details of the car’s listing on Facebook Marketplace
Despite the undeniable appeal and performance heritage of the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe, it found itself listed on Facebook Marketplace, waiting for a new owner to recognize its value. This online listing provided potential buyers with a comprehensive overview of the car, complete with detailed photographs and a description that highlighted its key features. The listing served as a digital window into the world of this abandoned gem, inviting car enthusiasts to consider the hidden potential it held.
Low pricing and absence of enthusiasts’ interest
One aspect that caught the attention of many potential buyers was the surprisingly low price of the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe. Despite its rarity and performance credentials, the car’s listing price failed to generate the enthusiastic interest it deserved. Perhaps the combination of its location in a junkyard and the lack of awareness among car enthusiasts contributed to the lack of traction in the marketplace. Nevertheless, let’s now turn our attention to the original price of this gem and shed light on its true value.
Original Price
Explanation of the original MSRP of $14,512 in 1987
When the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe first hit the market, it carried a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $14,512. This price tag reflected the car’s exceptional performance, advanced features, and overall quality. Considering the context of the automotive landscape in 1987, this figure placed the GL-10 Turbo among the premium offerings of its time. The combination of its turbocharged engine, all-wheel-drive system, and sporty design justified its price as a worthy investment for those seeking a thrilling driving experience.
Conversion to present-day value
To understand the true value of the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe in today’s market, let’s convert its original MSRP to present-day dollars. Adjusting for inflation, the 1987 MSRP of $14,512 would be equivalent to approximately $39,894 in 2023. This calculation emphasizes the premium nature of the GL-10 Turbo and highlights its status as a high-class vehicle that was ahead of its time. Despite its current state in a junkyard, this perspective offers a valuable reminder of the car’s inherent worth and the potential it holds for restoration.
Condition
Evaluation of the car’s current condition
Unfortunately, the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe, now residing in a junkyard in Colorado, bears the scars of time and neglect. Its once-pristine exterior has succumbed to the relentless grasp of rust, leaving visible imperfections and a sense of weathered charm. The interior, too, shows signs of wear and tear, requiring a discerning eye to envision its former glory. While the car’s condition may seem discouraging at first glance, it serves as a testament to the resilience and durability of the GL-10 Turbo’s construction.
Rustiness and unsuitability for easy restoration
Despite the innate potential that lies within the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe, its current state of rustiness poses significant challenges for restoration enthusiasts. The corrosive effects of time have taken their toll on the car’s body, necessitating extensive repairs and restoration efforts to revive its original splendor. While not impossible, the level of skill, resources, and dedication required to bring this rare gem back to life should not be underestimated. As such, prospective buyers should be prepared for a daunting restoration journey if they choose to take on this project.
Conclusion
Final thoughts on the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe
In conclusion, the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe offers a captivating glimpse into the world of automotive history and performance. Its unique blend of sportiness, elegance, and advanced features made it a standout choice in its time, captivating the hearts of enthusiasts. Although the car currently finds itself in a neglected state, its underlying potential remains, waiting to be harnessed by a passionate restorer. If you are up for a challenging restoration adventure and have a deep appreciation for automotive icons, the 1987 Subaru GL 4WD Turbo Liftback Coupe may just be the diamond in the rough that you’ve been searching for.
Source: https://www.autoblog.com/2023/09/24/junkyard-gem-1987-subaru-gl-4wd-turbo-liftback-coupe/
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