Does anyone have any resolutions they'd like to share? To all our friends, we wish you a safe and happy New Year!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Friday, December 28, 2012
626,000 POUNDS OF INSPIRATION.
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626,000 POUNDS OF INSPIRATION.
Philadelphia radio’s 93.3 WMMR recently held its 14th Annual Camp Out for Hunger event that benefits Philabundance, the region’s largest food bank and hunger relief organization. Subaru employees, dealers and customers donated a whopping 326,470 pounds of food, earning us recognition as “Largest Contribution by a Business.” Daily live broadcasts from Preston and Steve, the station’s popular disc jockeys, inspired listeners to contribute more than 163 tons (626,000 pounds) of food. How exciting is it that Subaru participants donated more than half that amount!?
Our deepest thanks to everyone who helped make it happen by dropping donations at the dealerships! You make the world a better place.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Monday, December 24, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
Parts Specials at Subaru World of Newton!
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
SAVE $5,500 on the 2012 Subaru Tribeca!
Visit Subaru World of Newton for details on how you could SAVE $5,500 on the 2012 Subaru Tribeca! Hurry, offer expires 12/31/12! http://www.subaruworldofnewton.com
Congratulations to Barbara Regad!
Congratulations to Barbara Regad on the purchase of her 2013 Subaru Forrester. Barbara is a staff member at the Samaritan Inn, a non-profit organization which has been serving Sussex County since 1977 providing housing, food banks and education for activities of daily living. http://www.samaritaninn.org/ - http://www.subaruworldofnewton.com
Monday, December 10, 2012
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Six Millionth Subaru Sold in the United States
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Subaru has had a good few years marked by fairly consistent monthly sales increases. This week, Subaru announced that it has sold in the U.S. its six-millionth vehicle: a 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek.
Perhaps what’s more intriguing is a report from Just-Auto that claims Subaru may put forward a plan to increase production in the U.S. from 130,000 units annually to about 300,000 units a year as early as April 2016. That strategy would require Subaru to increase production at its Indiana factory and, possibly, open a new one as well to avoid the high cost of importing vehicles from Japan.
Just before the end of October this year, Subaru already surpassed its previous sales record of 266,989 units, set in 2011. Through October, Subaru’s sales are up 26 percent. While the Subaru BRZ may function as a halo car for the brand, the newly refreshed Outback remains the brand’s star in the U.S., with more sales in October than the Forester and Impreza put together. With a new Forester arriving in dealerships soon and the Legacy refreshed, we’d be surprised not to see the brand at least maintain these sales levels. The six-millionth Subaru was a 2013 XV Crosstrek sold in Georgetown, Texas.
Courtesy of Automobile Magazine
Monday, November 26, 2012
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
2014 Subaru Forester: Bigger, roomier, better mpg for enduring crossover
The 2014 Subaru Forester, the fourth generation of the all-wheel driver crossover that debuted in 1997, will be slightly longer, taller and wider than its predecessor and will make its North American debut at the LA Auto Show in late November.
While featuring slightly bigger dimensions, the 2014 Subaru Forester will be closely related to its older siblings and will offer, according to the manufacturer: “An exceptionally roomy interior, featuring increased rear seat legroom, and an enlarged cargo area.”
New features will also include for the North American market: an infotainment system with smartphone integration, navigation, rear view camera, and harman/kardon premium audio amplifier and speakers.
In Japan, the new Forester’s powertrain options include a 146 horsepower, 2.0-liter flat four connected to either a six-speed manual or a CVT, and a 276 horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer matched exclusively to a CVT.
For the North American market, the 2014 Forester will also be available with two engines, a based 2.5-liter boxer unit that makes 170hp and which can be linked to a 6-speed stick shift or a CVT, and a new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged flat-four producing 250 horsepower, again offered only with a CVT.
A new suspension and 8.7 inches of ground clearance will be featured and the Forester is expected to have increased mpg averages. The new mpg averages and pricing have not been announced.
The 2014 Subaru Forester will go on sale in Japan on November 13. It will debut at LA Auto Show on Nov. 30 with sales dates pending.
-Courtesy of The Weekly Driver
Monday, November 5, 2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Check out this week's great deals at Subaru World of Newton
Don't get spooked out by ghoulish prices at those other dealerships-- come to Subaru World of Newton, where we have your Subaru waiting for you!
We're offering ZERO payments for 90 days or 0% APR financing for up to 60 months.
Not in the market for a vehcile? Check out our other offerings below. Visit us online at www.subaruworldofnewton.com/
Thursday, October 18, 2012
The Presidential BRAT
In 1977, Subaru launched the first-generation BRAT (Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter). Its name comes from its full-time, front-wheel drive with on-the-fly, all-wheel-drive capability. With its 67-horsepower, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder engine, the vehicle was based on the 4WD wagon and was popular in rugged areas. The Subaru BRAT featured bolted-down jump seats in the bed and was designed for the American market.
The Ronald Reagan BRAT
Former President Reagan owned his 1978 BRAT until 1998. The versatile vehicle was perfect for working on his 688-acre ranch in Santa Barbara, California.
In 1998, the Reagan family sold their ranch to the Young America’s Foundation and previously had gifted their ranch vehicles, including the BRAT, to friends. In 2004, his BRAT was sold on eBay. Then, in 2005, it was bought back by the Young America’s Foundation. “When you’re interpreting history, you want to make sure you have the original as much as possible,” revealed Marilyn Fisher. She is the historic curator for the ranch who facilitated the purchase of this vehicle in 2005.
BRAT Restoration
Subaru of America, Inc. stepped forward along with former Reagan National Security Adviser Richard Allen and worked with the ranch, The Westside Group, and other individuals to restore this vehicle to its original state. The vehicle had sustained significant weather-related rust damage and had missing and broken parts that were no longer produced. Mike Escudero, owner and founder of The Westside Group, commented, “Underneath the wear and tear, we knew we would find great bones and classic engineering.”
he Westside Group completely restored the Reagan BRAT. Everything was removed from the vehicle and was either restored or replaced. Some of the new pieces were completely fabricated. According to Todd Peters, vintage Subaru enthusiast who supplied miscellaneous parts for the restoration: “They tore it down to nothing and put it back together. It was the best [rebuild] to this point.” The engine was rebuilt to original factory specs along with the red paint and body -- including the original BRAT graphic on the B-pillar.
Recalled Escudero, “We were pleasantly surprised at the overwhelming support of a devoted community of Subaru BRAT owners worldwide who generously provided us with information, resources, and original parts -- some from their own vehicles.” After a year of work, this authentic restoration looked like it had just rolled off the assembly line
-Courtesy of Subaru
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
2014 Subaru Forester caught loafing outside factory
Last month, the first sneak peak of what the 2014 Subaru Forester will look like came courtesy of some scanned brochure images, and now we're finally seeing some images of the new crossover out in the open thanks to these spy shots of the new Forester in Japan. These are likely early production build vehicles, and they give us a good look at the newest Subaru from multiple angles, including our first glimpse of a sportier model.
Subaru has not yet indicated when and where the 2014 Forester will make its debut, but these images suggest the new CUV is very close to hitting the road.
-Courtesy of Autoblog
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek: Car Seat Check
Subaru's new crossover may be built for off-roading with its rugged styling, all-wheel drive and 8.7-inch ground clearance, but it'd also have no problem pulling regular family duty. The XV Crosstrek's accessible Latch and tether anchors eased child-seat installation, though its compact size meant rear-facing child seats borrowed some legroom from the front passenger.
For the Car Seat Check, we use a Graco SnugRide 30 rear-facing infant-safety seat, a Britax Roundabout convertible child-safety seat and Graco high-back TurboBooster seat.
The front seats are adjusted to a comfortable position for a 6-foot driver and a 5-foot-8 passenger. The three child seats are installed in the second row. The booster seat sits behind the driver's seat, and the infant seat and convertible seats are installed behind the passenger seat. We also install the infant seat in the second row's middle seat with the booster and convertible in the outboard seats to see if three car seats will fit. If there's a third row, we install the booster seat and a forward-facing convertible.
Here's how the Subaru XV Crosstrek did in Cars.com's Car Seat Check:
Latch system: There are two sets of Latch anchors in the outboard seats. They sit behind Velcro flaps about an inch below the seat cushion and were easy to access.
Booster seat: The backseat is wide and flat, so the booster fit well.
Convertible seat: The forward-facing convertible was easy to install; three tether anchors sit midway down the seatback and there's lots of clearance around the anchor bars. In the rear-facing position, the seat also went in easily; its rigid connectors found the Latch anchors without a problem. The front-passenger seat had to be moved up a bit to fit the safety seat behind it, though there was still enough legroom for the front passenger. 
Infant-safety seat: It was easy to install with its traditional, hook-like anchors.
-Courtesy of Edmunds' Kicking Tires
Friday, October 5, 2012
Join us for our Subaru new owner Service Clinic!
Subaru owners, get to know your Subaru and your local Subaru dealership!
On Tuesday, Oct. 9th, we'll have Kenny Han, a 25-year Subaru master tech who will provide some great information and answer any questions you might have about your vehicle operations.
We will be giving away exclusive coupons for future promotions, cool Subaru gear, and have refreshments for you to enjoy!
So, come on over on Tuesday, Oct. 9th to meet Kenny and learn how you can keep your Subaru running like new for longer.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Subaru XV Crosstrek Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick Status
The Subaru XV Crosstrek just earned Top Safety Pick status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
This sporty crossover scored a good rating in moderate overlap frontal, side, rollover, and rear impact tests to join a growing list of Top Safety Pick winners.
For more information on the XV Crosstrek, visit your Subaru World of Newton dealer or visit us online: http://bit.ly/QUmMpO
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Columbus Day is this Monday; now's a great time to make a trade at Subaru World of Newton!
Now through Monday, get up to $2500 OVER the Kelly Blue Book Value for your trade. We're also offering 0% APR Financing for qualified buyers.
Not in the market for a new car? Check out our current service specials below:
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Subaru Outback Review: Long-term report
The Subaru Outback is an ideal family car if you need a rugged but civilised city-friendly SUV with bulletproof reliability and the benefit of full-time all-wheel drive.
The Outback is classified as a large SUV, but it’s certainly not as high as a traditional SUV. In fact, it’s really just a higher-riding Subaru Liberty wagon with some physical enhancements to give it a more rugged look. In essence, it is to the Liberty what the XV is to the Impreza.
From the outside the Outback hasn’t changed much for the last few years, this current shape has been around since 2009 but it still looks fresh, thanks largely to its clean but sharp design.
Getting in is simple and that extra ride height over a traditional wagon makes it much easier for buckling the little ones in. It’s higher than your average car but not high enough to make it intimidating to park. It feels perfectly at ease in tight car park spaces and we’ve had no trouble getting it and out of small city parking lots.
Seating position is easily adjustable and the steering wheel moves in and out as well as up and down for perfect alignment. The speedometer and other driver-focused instruments are clear and easy to read regardless of steering position.
The location of the satellite navigation screen means you’ll need to take your eyes off the road to glance but given its large size and good clarity, it’s a non-issue.
The rear seats are very spacious and despite housing a rather chunky infant seat, there’s enough room to fit two adults as well. The rear also get air conditioning vents. Overall there are plenty of storage spaces throughout the cabin, some with rubber lining that makes them ideal for placing phones and other slippery valuables.
The six-speaker audio system provides excellent sound quality. If you opt for the Premium grade, which comes with the satellite navigation, you won’t have a USB port for audio purposes and will instead have to make do with RCA jacks.
The 2.5-litre four-cylinder boxer engine is good for 123kW of power and 229Nm of torque. Which is reasonable considering the Outback only weighs 1.5 tons. If you go the automatic route you’ll be using a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is unlike a traditional automatic but does its best to behave as such. In-gear acceleration is smooth and it certainly doesn’t feel gutless for inner city driving or overtaking on the highway.
Steering feel is almost not worth mentioning as it’s perfectly suited to the character of the car. It’s not too heavy or too light. It’s ideal for car parks but feels responsive and provides adequate feedback for when you get a bit enthusiastic.
After spending a month in the Subaru Outback, it was found to be an ideal family car. It’s quiet, spacious, refined and comes with Subaru’s well-known emphasis on safety (maximum five-star safety rating).
In general, the Subaru Outback is a very comfortable and reliable family car.
-Courtesy of Car Advice
Monday, October 1, 2012
A Few Photos From Subaru World of Newton's Pet Adoption Event
For more photos, visit out Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/SubaruWorldofNewton
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Subaru adds all-new XV Crosstrek to lineup
Looking for an affordable, highly capable all-wheel-drive vehicle that is fun to drive, offers loads of versatility and delivers the greatest fuel efficiency in its category (up to 33 mpg), with 8.7-inch ground clearance?
With the arrival of Subaru's all-new 2013 XV Crosstrek, slated to go on sale early this fall, your search may well be over. The XV Crosstrek is really like no other CUV in the Subaru stable, though some will likely compare it to their popular Impreza.
The XV Crosstrek will be available in two trim levels: the 2.0i Premium and a more upscale 2.0i Limited. Both models will be powered by Subaru's 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve inline, flat-opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder engine with Dual Active Valve Control System, sequential multi-port fuel injection and electronic throttle control. The engine cranks out 148 hp at 6,200 rpm, along with 145 lb ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. The driving force is delivered to all four wheels through Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive systems via either a five-speed manual gearbox with incline start assist or a Lineartronic CVT automatic with a driver-selectable, six-speed manu al shift mode and steering wheel mounted shift paddles that also features incline start assist.
The manual's AWD system is a continuous type, with a viscous-coupling locking center differential. The AWD system in CVT-equipped models is an active torque split system with an electronically managed, continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch.
Standard features for both trim levels include: 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a dark gray painted surface and machined edges; raised suspension; roof rails with available cross rails; fog lights; power moonroof; cargo-area tray; touch-screen GPS navigation system with SMS text messaging capability, XM satellite radio and XM NavTraffic; seven airbags, including driver-side knee airbag; and whiplash-protection front seats.
Subaru chose the North Shore of Oahu to showcase the capabilities of the XV Crosstrek, with an extensive off-roading experience through lush rain, with a lunch break atop a rugged mountain peak.
SUMMARY: The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek should prove to be a welcome addition to the company's CUV lineup. It is extremely attractive and sporty in its appearance, displaying a low shoulder line and blacked out "B" and "C" pillars, giving it an almost coupe-like persona with a low 0.35 drag coefficient. It is also highly functional and fun to drive. Exterior mirrors have been moved from the "A" pillar to the door, improving outward visibility.
Ride quality was comfortable and compliant, even over rough terrain, and the handling characteristics served up an athletic and sporty feel, with good steering response and vehicle stability. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system performed flawlessly on both wet and dry surfaces.
The 2.0-liter engine is normally aspirated and does not have direct injection (which Subaru felt was an unnecessary expense), but it delivers an energetic acceleration response nonetheless, along with a pleasing fuel economy (25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway). The CVT performed smoothly in either its fully automatic mode or when using the paddle shifters for the feel of a manual gearbox. The cruising range averages 524 miles.
Safety features are abundant and effective, especially the incline start assist. Versatility is key, with plentiful storage nooks and crannies, the 60/40 split rear seatbacks that fold flat for a level load surface, and the roof rail system with a 150-lb load limit. Towing capacity is 1,500 lbs.
The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is sized to serve as the ideal mode of transport for individuals and families with an active lifestyle, who seek adventure without compromise. Perhaps the XV Crosstrek is not a vehicle suited for traversing the legendary Rubicon Trail, but it's certainly up to fording small streams and tackling snow-covered roads and muddy trails with gusto.
Monday, September 24, 2012
The 2012 Impreza, available here at Subaru World of Newton
The Subaru Impreza offers excellent handling, a spacious interior, and great fuel economy with standard all-wheel drive. Check out the 2012 Impreza online or come in for a test drive: http://bit.ly/Qup9Pn
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
We've Received a Positive Review on Google+ Local!
Here's the latest customer review on Subaru World of Newton:
"I purchased a new vehicle from this dealership last year and have it serviced here almost exclusively. The salesman are very easy to deal with and not pushy at all. The lot is a little small in terms of inventory, but with only a few models Subaru has, there are plenty of options in terms of packages and color. Although I have only been in for service and recalls, no major issues, the service desk is always very clear and helpful. I sometimes make an appointment but it has never been too busy where I had to wait too long."
Thanks for the customer feedback! We appreciate it!
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
2013 Subaru Outback Review
Joke all you want about “Crocodile Dundee 3” but the Subaru Outback has consistently earned high marks among drivers. The new Outback is no exception.
The design is unmistakably Subaru. The jacked-up wagon sits perfectly between a car-based wagon and an SUV, providing the feel and handling of the former and the room and comfort of the latter.
While already spacious inside, you can flip down the seats for an impressive amount of space and greatly increasing the utility of this vehicle. As is typical with Subaru, the control panel is a no-fuss cluster of instruments that are large and self-explanatory. It will disappoint a tech geek but there’s no doubting its simplicty.
The greatest changes come in the safety features, thanks in part to their partnership with Toyota. The full-time all-wheel-drive system combines with stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes and a hill holding system to provide remarkable stability and security while on the road. Six airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners provide excellent safety inside the cabin.
The EyeSight system is the biggest change to the Subaru. The driver-assistance system detects potential obstacles in the road, and works hand-in-hand with other safety systems such as lane departure warning and pre-collision braking.
-Courtesy of The Celebrity Cafe
Monday, September 17, 2012
Monday Maintenance Tip: Getting Ready for Fall
With winter weather fast approaching, now is the time to tackle the simple maintenance tasks that keep your Subaru in top running condition.
Timely maintenance does more than keep your Subaru running smoothly. It can help increase your car's trade-in value, improve its mileage, and save you time and costly repairs down the road.
- Belts. With the engine off, check your car's belts for cracks and missing pieces. To check for proper tightness, press down on the belt with your thumb. If the belt gives more than half an inch, it needs tightening.
- Hoses. When the car is cold, feel your car's hoses for bulges, cracks, soft spots or brittleness. With the engine running, look for (but don't touch) bulges or leaks. If you detect any, have the hose replaced. Note: Avoid replacing air conditioning hoses yourself. Their pressurized gases can cause serious injury.
- Coolant. Check the level of coolant in your radiator by looking at the coolant overflow tank. Maintaining a 50/50 mix of antifreeze will keep your engine cool in hot weather and prevent damage when temperatures fall as low as 40 below zero. Note: Do not remove the radiator cap until the engine is turned off and has cooled down.
- Oil. Depending on the driving conditions your Subaru is subjected to, change your oil and filter as recommended in your Owner's Manual. Also, use the recommended oil grade.
- Power Steering Fluid. To check, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it again. Pull it out again and check the level. If it is below the HOT range, add the recommended steering fluid up to the upper level mark. Note: If the fluid level is extremely low or fluid has been replaced, contact your Subaru dealer.
- Brake Fluid. Check the fluid level on the outside of the tank using the lines on the reservoir as a guide. If the level is below MIN, add brake fluid from a sealed container to bring it up to MAX. You'll notice a significant drop in fluid levels when there's a leak. Note: Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Any absorbed moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking performance. If your brake fluid tank requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. Contact your Subaru dealer immediately.
- Air Filter. Again, depending on the condition of the roads traveled by your Subaru, routinely check your air filter for accumulated debris.
- Battery. Check your battery terminals regularly, removing any corrosion with a toothbrush and a mix of baking soda and water.
- Tires. Check your tire pressure (with tires cold) once a month or more. Keep tires inflated to manufacturer's recommendations, which can be found on the driver's side door frame placard and in the owner's manual.
- Wipers, Washers, Horn And Lights. Finally, be sure to check the operation of your car's wipers, windshield washers, horn and lights. Tip: Isopropyl alcohol makes wiper blade clean-up a snap!
For an extra measure of prevention, have these parts double-checked by your Subaru dealer when you come in for regular scheduled maintenance. Be sure to follow the schedule of inspection and maintenance services found in your Warranty and Maintenance Booklet.
-Courtesy of Subaru
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Subaru Impreza AWD takes impressive leap in mileage
Revamped for the 2012 model year, Subaru Impreza takes a giant leap in fuel economy.
Both the hatchback and sedan check in at 27 miles per gallon in the city, 36 on the highway when paired with the continuously variable automatic transmission. That beats 20/27 for the previous generation, thanks to the shift to a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 148 horsepower, a weight loss of 165 pounds and the revised transmission.
The Sube isn’t at the top of its class, but remember they all come with standard all-wheel drive, so those new fuel figures are impressive.
The 2012 redesign also brings a slightly longer wheelbase, which -- along with redesigned seats and doors -- yields a smidge more passenger and cargo room.
I like that the front seats scoot way back. And even with them fully pushed back, rear-seat leg room is decent. Cargo space also isn’t bad for a compact hatchback.
A more raked windshield changes the exterior profile, but the Impreza doesn’t really stand out among other compacts. Inside, Subaru spiffed up materials and convenience features, a common thread in the new generation of compacts.
Also new this year is a driver's-side knee airbag, adding to typical safety standards such as side curtains, antilock brakes and stability control.
Upgraded models have Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, audio streaming and iPod integration. The navigation package includes voice control, iTunes tagging, which lets you tag songs on the radio for later download, and real-time traffic data.
Standards on the base car include power accessories, air conditioning and keyless entry. Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited models also are available.
The turbocharged Impreza WRX still is available for performance fans, taking horsepower to 265.
The Impreza’s base price runs midpack among hatchbacks, which makes it attractive if you consider the standard all-wheel drive. And only a few competitors, including Toyota Matrix and Suzuki SX4, even offer that option.
All in all, the redesigned Impreza -- whether you choose the hatchback or the sedan -- becomes a much tougher competitor with its improved interior, added passenger room and much-improved fuel efficiency.
-Courtesy of the Phoenix Business Journal
Monday, September 10, 2012
New models are at Subaru World of Newton!
Right now, Subaru World of Newton is receiving brand new Subaru models, including the versatile and fun Subaru Impreza.
The Subaru Impreza offers a comfortable and roomy interior, as well as Subaru's standard four-wheel drive. It also has great fuel economy with 36/43 MPG. Come to Subaru World of Newton, where we have fresh Imprezas on the lot! Leases on the AWD start at just $169 per month! This offer is valid only while supplies last.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
1978 Subaru GL Wagon
The first Subaru GL wagons came out in 1972, and like most Japanese cars of the era, they were light, tough, and usually rusted to pieces before they'd seen the end of two decades. So it's pretty hard to find first, and even second generation GLs still on the road.
Old Subarus of every stripe are a little more common in places where Subaru sold a lot of them — most notably the Pacific Northwest and in Colorado. Nevertheless, rust has killed most of the older ones. Imagine my surprise when I found one hidden on the back lot at Super Rupair, Boulder, Colorado's thriving independent, you guessed it, Subaru repair shop. I didn't spot it myself, but stumbled across it on an online forum and figured that since it was in my own backyard, I'd better go have a look.
It turns out that the car, which only has about 40,000 miles on it, has spent most of its days parked in front of a house in South Boulder. Its original owner, who talked to me on the condition that I not divulge her name, is a 90-something-years-young retired scientist who bought the car new at the Subaru dealership in Richland, Wash. in 1978. She only recently sold the car because she doesn't drive anymore.
"At the time, the Subaru was the only four wheel drive car you could get with a floor shift where you didn't have to get out and switch the hubs by hand," she told me, adding that she'd had some experience driving four wheel drive as a Women's Army Corps captain during World War II. "I had driven army Jeeps during World War II, so I was familiar with that sort of thing."
In 1978, the only options you could get were the four wheel drive and a sunroof, and since she knew she wouldn't be living in a tropical climate, she checked the 4x4 box, but opted out of the sunroof. It was a wise choice, as she ended up moving to Boulder two years after she bought the car.
Over the next 32 years, she only used the car for grocery shopping and errands where you'd need a car.
So today, her '78 GL wagon is in more or less pristine condition, aside from a bent bumper and some faded paint on top of the right rear door. From the long, tight throws of its manual transmission to the deep, mellow timbre of its single-speaker AM radio, the car felt brand new, and left me wondering how Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas got, like much of the American public, so fat over the past 20 years. It made me realize somewhat acutely our need to rediscover how to do more with less.
Courtesy of Jalopink
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