How many miles per gallon does a 1999 Subaru Outback get?
A 1999 Subaru Outback typically achieves about 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in city driving and roughly 26 mpg on the open road, with combined figures generally in the low-to-mid 20s. The exact number depends on transmission choice and driving conditions.
In detail, the Outback from that year used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive as a common configuration. EPA fuel-economy ratings vary by transmission: whether the car had a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual affects both city and highway mileage. Real-world results also depend on maintenance, tire condition, terrain, and how the vehicle is loaded.
EPA ratings by drivetrain
These figures reflect typical EPA estimates for the 1999 Outback and show how the transmission choice can influence mpg.
- 2.5L four-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic (AWD): about 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway; roughly 22–23 mpg combined.
- 2.5L four-cylinder with a 5-speed manual (AWD): about 23 mpg city / 28–29 mpg highway; roughly 25–26 mpg combined.
Note that real-world fuel economy can vary from these figures due to driving style, equipment load, and maintenance condition.
Real-world driving considerations
Several practical factors influence what you’ll actually see at the pump on a day-to-day basis with a 1999 Outback.
- Driving style and terrain: steady highway cruising tends to boost efficiency, while frequent acceleration or steep hills reduces it.
- Tire condition and pressure: underinflated tires or mismatched tread can raise rolling resistance and lower mpg.
- Maintenance: fresh spark plugs, proper air and fuel filters, and a healthy oxygen sensor help keep the engine running efficiently.
- Weight and aerodynamics: roof racks, cargo, and aftermarket changes increase drag and reduce economy.
- Drivetrain wear and age: older AWD systems and transmission components may not perform as efficiently as modern setups.
With attentive maintenance and conservative driving, owners can skew toward the higher end of the listed ranges, but the Outback’s traditional 1999-era efficiency remains modest compared with newer vehicles.
Summary
The 1999 Subaru Outback generally returns in the low- to mid-20s mpg, with automatics around 22 mpg combined and manuals in the mid- to high-20s combined. Transmission choice, driving conditions, and maintenance all play meaningful roles in the actual mileage you’ll experience.
What's the MPG of a '99 Outback?
21 MPG
How much is a 1999 Subaru worth?
The value of a used 1999 Subaru Impreza ranges from $473 to $2,551, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
How many miles can a 1999 Subaru Outback last?
200,000 to 300,000 miles
Understanding the Lifespan of a Subaru Outback
When cared for properly, the Outback can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles without significant issues. The model's longevity rating is so impressive that it ranks among the top 25 vehicles most likely to surpass the quarter-million-mile mark, with a 22.3% chance of doing so.
How big is the gas tank on a 1999 Subaru Outback?
15.9 gal
Fuel & MPG
286.2/381.6 mi. 15.9 gal.
