The Subaru Leone, a name that resonates with many Kiwis. These 1979-1984 models represent the second generation of this compact car, a stalwart of New Zealand roads for decades. Known for its reliability (at the time!) and available 4WD, the Leone was a popular choice for families and those venturing off the beaten track. But, with age comes the need for careful consideration. Let's dive into the reality of owning a classic Leone in NZ.
Rust is the biggest enemy. Look closely at the body, especially around wheel arches, sills, and under the floor. Engine oil leaks are also common. Carburettor issues can plague older petrol engines, so pay attention to how smoothly it runs. Suspension components like ball joints and bushes will likely be worn. Pay attention to rubber components such as hoses and belts, deterioration is expected .
WOF tips
WOF inspectors will pay close attention to rust in structural areas. Suspension play, particularly in the ball joints and tie rod ends, will be scrutinised. Brake performance is critical. Brake lines need to be inspected meticulously for corrosion. Lights must be functioning correctly and the overall condition of the tyres will be assessed.
About the Subaru Leone 1300
These Leones offered a range of engine options, typically naturally aspirated flat-four petrol engines. While technologically simple by today's standards, their horizontally opposed design offered a low center of gravity, contributing to decent handling. Many were equipped with 4WD, making them capable in various conditions for exploring New Zealand. However, age is the greatest factor with any vehicles of this era. Rust is a very common issue and it can pop up in many places; sills, floor pans, around windows and the petrol tank are prone to catching rot. Parts availability can be challenging, so be prepared to do some searching.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots to check on a 1979-1984 Subaru Leone in New Zealand?
Rust is the biggest enemy for these Leones. You should meticulously inspect the sills, floor pans, areas around the windows, and the petrol tank. Also pay close attention to the wheel arches and under the floor.
What should I look out for during a pre-purchase inspection of a Subaru Leone (1979-1984) in NZ?
Beyond rust, which is critical, check for engine oil leaks and carburettor issues, as these are common. Suspension components like ball joints and bushes will likely be worn, so check for play. Deterioration of rubber hoses and belts is also expected due to age. It's highly recommended to get a mechanic familiar with older Subarus to perform the inspection.
Where can I get parts for my 1979-1984 Subaru Leone in New Zealand?
Parts availability can be challenging for these older models. CARFIX stocks 120 SKUs for the Subaru Leone 1979-1984, so that's a good starting point. You may need to do some searching for more specific or rare components.
What are the common WOF failure points for a 1979-1984 Subaru Leone in New Zealand?
WOF inspectors will scrutinise rust in structural areas. Suspension play, especially in ball joints and tie rod ends, is a common failure point. Brake performance is critical, and brake lines will be meticulously inspected for corrosion. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly and that the tyres are in good condition.
How often should I service my 1979-1984 Subaru Leone?
The recommended service interval for the Subaru Leone 1979-1984 is every 10,000km. Given the age of these vehicles, regular and thorough maintenance is crucial.
Are there any DIY guides available for maintaining a 1979-1984 Subaru Leone?
Yes, CARFIX has 1 video DIY guide available for the Subaru Leone 1979-1984. While not extensive, it can be a helpful resource for some maintenance tasks.