Unveiling the Quirks and Features of the 1985 Subaru XT Turbo

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- By Dushyant
- (@dishs)
The 1985 Subaru XT Turbo is a car that defies convention and embraces its own unique identity. Subaru, known for its practical and boxy designs, took a bold leap with the XT, delivering a wedge-shaped coupe with four-wheel drive. It's a car that demands attention and leaves a lasting impression.
From the moment you lay eyes on the XT, you know you're in for something different. The wraparound glass gives the illusion of a floating roof, a feature that was unheard of in the 80s. The square wheels, a peculiar choice, add to the overall quirkiness of the design. And let's not forget the door handles that require a push and pull motion instead of the traditional pull mechanism. It's these little details that set the XT apart.
Step inside, and you're greeted with a steering wheel that looks like it's turned 90 degrees. But fear not, it's just the straight driving position. The telescoping adjustment handle cleverly hides on the spokes, a testament to Subaru's commitment to unconventional design. The interior takes inspiration from planes, with an airplane yoke-like gear lever and a digital gauge cluster that resembles a runway. It's a feast for the eyes, with digital readouts for speed, turbo boost, and even exterior temperature.
But the quirkiness doesn't stop there. The giant control panels hanging off the steering column house various functions, including windshield wipers and climate controls. The turn signals have their own separate stock, and flashing the high beams involves a unique process with the pop-up headlights. And let's not forget the hidden power window switches, the central climate vent that's actually two vents, and the programmable display screen that predates modern infotainment systems.
Under the hood, the XT Turbo may not be a powerhouse, but it's still an impressive machine. With a turbocharged 1.8L flat-4 engine producing 112 horsepower (or 135 horsepower for lucky European models), it delivers a decent performance. Combine that with the option for four-wheel drive, and you have a car that's ready to tackle any road.
The 1985 Subaru XT Turbo is a testament to Subaru's willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of design. It's a car that embraces its weirdness and stands out from the crowd. If you're looking for a unique driving experience that's sure to turn heads, the XT Turbo is the car for you.

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Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

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Viewer Reactions for The Subaru XT Is Probably the Weirdest Subaru Ever Made
Climate controls are preferred over touch screen menus
The gear shift lever is admired
The XT is praised for its quirky and unique design
The gauge cluster is impressive and well-liked
The XT is considered a rare find in good condition
The XT is compared to other weird and quirky cars
The XT is praised for its air suspension and low mileage
The XT's design is loved and appreciated
The XT's headlights and door handle are discussed
The XT is considered a cult car and parts may be hard to find
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