After spending the 1970s establishing itself as a company producing rugged, reliable vehicles, Subaru reinvented itself in the 1980s and 1990s, focusing on performance and luxury. That approach gave the automotive world the legendary Impreza WRX, and prestige models like this 1996 SVX LSi. This classic presents extremely well, carrying the hallmarks of a vehicle that has lived a sheltered life. The seller needs room, so this Subaru must head to a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Sam61 for spotting the SVX listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Downers Grove, Illinois. If quirky styling and luxury motoring are your bag, you could drive this classic home for $5,000.
Introduced in July 1991 to replace the XT, Subaru’s SVX continued the company’s trend of bold styling. While the XT was about as boxy as a car could be, the SVX was more rounded and smoother. However, the windows were distinctive, giving the SVX a unique appearance that didn’t appeal to everyone. This SVX rolled off the line in 1996, ordered by its first owner in Code 487 Bordeaux Pearl. The company introduced this shade in 1994 to replace Claret Mica, with the new color remaining available throughout the badge’s production life. This SVX presents extremely well, with no genuine cosmetic issues or shortcomings. The paint shines impressively, the panels are straight, and rust isn’t an issue. The trim is in good condition and, thankfully, that distinctive glass is crystal clear.
Subaru enjoys a reputation for producing bulletproof horizontally opposed engines, and it follows that path to improve aerodynamic efficiency, courtesy of a lower hood line. The SVX was no exception, featuring a 3.3-liter flat-six generating 237hp and 228 ft/lbs of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the road via a foolproof all-wheel-drive system, with this car also featuring power steering and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. The listing indicates an odometer reading of 145,000 miles, though that figure is a walk in the park for the SVX. The seller states that they have appropriately maintained this classic, meaning there should be years of life left in this beauty.
Subaru’s focus on luxury is evident in this SVX’s interior. The buyer receives leather trim, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power seats, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a comprehensive gauge cluster, and a driver’s airbag. The seller replaced the stereo with a modern unit featuring Apple CarPlay. Otherwise, it is unmolested. The driver’s seat exhibits minor wear and stretching, but there is no evidence of developing holes. The remaining trim is in good order, and the carpet looks surprisingly clean considering its pale shade and the car’s odometer reading. Overall, the condition is comfortably acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle.
Considering that this 1996 Subaru SVX LSi has thirty years of active service under its belt and 145,000 miles showing on its odometer, its condition is pretty impressive. Apart from minor leather wear, there is little deserving criticism. The seller’s reduced price looks extremely competitive compared to recent successful sales, making me wonder why someone hasn’t snapped up this classic already. The styling is unusual and quirky, and won’t appeal to everyone. Do you think that might be why this Subaru hasn’t found a new home?
Wildest side windows maybe all time.
The DeLorean had similar, but not as well done. Giorgetto Giugiaro was trying really hard to make those windows happen back then. Have you ever seen the Round Door Rolls Royce? I think that has wilder windows.
I’m wondering if they cut down on wind buffeting or rain entry to driver and passengers when down.
Weak link on these were the transmissions. First thing to ask if a buyer is when the last service was.
I would be hesitant on this given the rise in 90’s cars these days. Something is “off” with this as you can barely find one of these Subaru’s that hasn’t been dragged through the mud for $5k and here is one that undergone a price adjustment to that point – something is off!