How fast is Subaru B4?
In brief, there isn’t a single speed figure for a Subaru B4, because the label has been used on several different Subaru four-door, AWD models across multiple generations. Depending on the exact year, engine, and market, performance can vary widely—from roughly five to seven seconds for 0–60 mph and top speeds typically in the 130–155 mph range for many turbocharged variants. The fastest B4-like versions tend to come from turbocharged Impreza/WRX lineage, while naturally aspirated Legacy B4 models are slower.
What the B4 designation covers
The B4 badge has appeared on various Subaru four-door, all‑wheel‑drive variants that use boxer four‑cylinder engines. It is not a single current model, but a historical label tied to specific trim/derivative configurations in different markets. Because the name spans generations and engine choices, exact speed figures depend on the year and the drivetrain setup.
Below are representative examples of what performance looked like across common B4-style variants. The figures are approximate ranges drawn from automotive road tests and manufacturer specifications from the era; actual performance for a given car can vary with condition, tuning, and equipment.
- Turbocharged Legacy/Impreza four‑door sedans from the 1990s–early 2000s: 0–60 mph typically in about 5.5 to 7.0 seconds, with top speeds roughly 130–150 mph depending on market and limiter.
- Early WRX/B4-era models (Impreza platform, turbocharged 2.0L or 2.5L): 0–60 mph commonly in the mid‑to‑high 5-second range, with top speeds around 140–155 mph depending on gearing and exhaust tuning.
- Naturally aspirated legacy/b4 configurations (non-turbo, later generations): 0–60 mph often in the 7–9 second range, top speeds typically around 130–140 mph.
In all cases, real-world performance is influenced by transmission type (manual vs. automatic), weight, maintenance, and road/atmospheric conditions. For modern Subaru models, the company’s current lineup emphasizes newer turbocharged engines and different branding, while the historical B4 label remains a marker of past configurations rather than a single, current production spec.
Performance factors that affect speed
Engine and turbocharging
Turbocharged B4 variants deliver significantly better acceleration than naturally aspirated versions. Turbo boost, intercooling, and engine tuning play major roles in 0–60 times and top speed. A well-maintained turbo engine with proper fueling and cooling will perform markedly better than a worn or detuned unit.
Drivetrain and transmission
All-wheel drive (AWD) provides traction but adds weight. Manual transmissions typically offer quicker, more consistent launches for enthusiasts, while automatics can alter shift timings and overall acceleration figures. Gear ratios determine how quickly the engine can reach peak torque and top speed.
Weight and aerodynamics
Heavier, less aerodynamic cars accelerate more slowly. Subarus of the B4 era balanced AWD capability with practical four-door layouts, but body weight and shape influence both 0–60 times and top speed, especially at higher speeds where aero drag matters.
How to compare specs for a specific car
To assess the exact speed of a particular Subaru B4 you’re interested in, identify:
- The model year and exact model name ( Legacy B4, Impreza B4, etc.).
- The engine displacement and turbocharging status (e.g., 2.0L turbo, 2.5L turbo, naturally aspirated).
- The drivetrain details (manual or automatic, AWD torque split if known).
- Market-specific tuning or speed limiter information.
With those details, you can compare official manufacturer figures, contemporary road tests, and user experiences to determine how fast a specific B4 variant is likely to be. If you’re evaluating a used example, consider having the vehicle inspected for turbo health, boost delivery, and transmission condition to get an accurate sense of real-world acceleration capabilities.
Summary
The Subaru B4 label refers to a family of four-door, all-wheel-drive Subaru models from past decades rather than to a single current model. Because the designation spans multiple generations with different engines and tunings, there is no universal speed figure. Turbocharged B4 variants typically delivered faster 0–60 mph times and higher top speeds than naturally aspirated versions, but exact numbers depend on year, engine, drivetrain, and market. For a precise answer, identify the exact model, year, and engine, then consult specific performance data for that configuration.
In every case, Subaru’s B4-era performance was characterized by a blend of all-wheel drive, boxer-engine design, and the tuning choices of the era, yielding a range of speeds rather than a single definitive value.
