1992 Subaru L-Series

Engine - Ea82 flat4 1.8L carburetor
Transmission - 5 Speed w/1:59 low range
Suspension - 1 inch
Tyres - Khumo KL71
Equipped For - Four Wheel Driving

Hey Brock, most of us aren’t too familiar with the L Series Subaru, what can you tell us about it? 

The Subaru L-Series is the predecessor to the Impreza, made from 84'-94'. This one is a flat standard 92' model boasting a whopping 63kW from its little 1.8L SOHC engine. Most people might be more familiar with the Brat or Brumby, the ute alternative to the wagon. The nice thing about these that make them a good platform for wheeling is the dual range box with a 1:59 low range which helps pull a bit more torque from the little engines. 

What made you choose the L Series? 

I had one once before when I was in my early 20's, picked one up for super cheap and got a dodgy RWC. It was already lifted and had all terrains on it. I knew nothing about mechanics back then so a mate and I just flogged it in the pine plantations back home in QLD and ruined it.

Come lockdowns I wanted to visit that idea of actually making a good one and figured why not? Bought one sight unseen from South Australia, flew over, drove it back between lockdowns and went at it. The really nice thing about these is that the parts are cheap, it's very easy to work on and there's a good support network of knowledge out there for them.

One of the main reasons though would be just to take the piss out of the big rigs. Numerous times it's flown past larger trucks on tracks that have been stuck on an obstacle and the looks on the drivers faces is priceless!

Being a Covid lockdown build, how much work has gone into the car? 

Honestly, I probably went too far with it. I started with a 50mm body lift, it already had a 1" suspension lift. It has an early triton snorkel, modified an 80's 4Runner winch bar to fit and put an overcompensating winch in it. It has Khumo 27" KL71's which took a bit of finessing and massaging of the panels and body to make them not scrub, which they still do. In the rear, there's a Torque auto-locking diff and put a little hotdog exhaust on to make it sound really farty and welded up a swing away wheel carrier for the spare.

What is your favourite thing about the L Series? 

It would have to be the size of it. The whole thing only weighs 1200kg. It gets some good looks in the bush and makes people smile. Once on a track near Baw Baw, there was a large group of Patrols, Hiluxes and Rangers winching over a tough section which I got stuck behind for a bit. I asked If I could skip in front of the next fella as it was getting dark and wanted to get out of there. They scoffed at the car, giggled and all watched in awe as I just drove straight over the section. Next thing I know one of the Patrol drivers walks over to me holding out his keys saying he'd swap vehicles! I graciously declined and went on my way.

Photos by Brook James