Subaru XT Restoration Is A Hidden Gem: 2011 SEMA Show
Amid the rally cars, modified Impreza STi hatchbacks and performance parts in Subaru’s booth was a bit of 1980’s nostalgia, a perfectly restored 1986 Subaru XT Turbo.
At the time of the XT’s introduction, the car was the most aerodynamic on the road, with a 0.29 drag coefficient. A turbocharged flat-four, all-wheel drive, a hydropneumatic suspension and awesome period graphics are just some of the neat features from a couple decades ago. The XT has been largely forgotten by car lovers, but Subaru and Drive magazine lovingly restored this example back to showroom condition.
Since so many parts were discontinued or unavailable, the team had to restore things like fasteners and bolts, which had been worn away by a couple decades of neglect. No word on what Subaru plans to do with this automotive relic, but it’s almost too good for anything but a museum.
Check out AutoGuide’s SEMA coverage here
Gallery: Subaru XT Restoration
More by Derek Kreindler
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I have an 85 in my garage I picked up for $100.00. Needs a few of the finer touches and no longer available parts. Sooooo...where can I get some?
I drove a silver one for about 5 years. I loved it. It was a unique piece on the road. The interior was even more unique and practical. Wish I could have that one back.