What is the diff ratio for the Subaru Legacy?
The diff ratio in a Subaru Legacy is not a single universal figure; it varies by model year, transmission, and market. In practice, automatics commonly use about 4.11:1 final drive, some manual transmissions use around 4.44:1, and CVT-equipped models rely on a variable gearing arrangement rather than a fixed final-drive number.
Range of diff ratios by generation and transmission
Below are the typical configurations you’ll encounter across Legacy generations and transmissions. Values come from factory specifications and common service data, but exact figures can differ by year and market.
- Automatic transmissions (4EAT): typically final drive around 4.11:1.
- Five-speed manual transmissions (5MT): commonly 4.11:1 or 4.44:1, depending on generation and market.
- CVT-equipped models: no fixed final-drive ratio; the CVT provides a variable gear ratio rather than a single, fixed number.
Because Subaru used multiple variants across years and regions, always verify the exact final-drive figure for your vehicle using the differential tag on the housing, the owner's or service manual, or the dealership data tied to your VIN.
Special considerations by transmission type
Market-specific and generation-specific differences mean you may see different final-drive figures for the same model year in different regions, or for limited-edition trims. For an accurate value, consult the differential tag or official Subaru documentation tied to your VIN.
How to find the exact diff ratio for your Legacy
To confirm the precise final-drive ratio for your car, use one of these methods tied to the vehicle itself and its documentation.
- Inspect the differential housing for a stamped tag or engraving that lists the final-drive ratio (often labeled as FD or Final Drive).
- Check the owner's manual or factory service manual for your model year; drivetrain/axle sections typically list the final-drive spec.
- Provide your VIN to a Subaru dealership or use official Subaru data portals to pull the exact spec for your vehicle.
- In some cases, the door jamb or under-hood labels may also reference drivetrain ratios; verify across official sources if needed.
With the exact ratio identified, you can more accurately assess gearing, fuel economy expectations, and any planning for performance or modification work.
Summary
The Subaru Legacy’s diff ratio is not a single fixed value. It varies by model year, transmission, and market. Automatics often use about 4.11:1, some manual versions around 4.44:1, and CVT-equipped models do not have a fixed final-drive number. To be certain, check the differential tag on the housing or use VIN-based dealer data to confirm the exact ratio for your specific vehicle.
