1980 Subaru Leone II Hatchback Dimensions, Size & Specs

The interior space of the Subaru Leone II Hatchback emphasizes practicality within a compact footprint. The hatchback design provides versatility in cargo carrying, with rear seats that can be folded down to increase cargo volume significantly. Typically, the passenger cabin comfortably seats up to five occupants with adequate headroom and legroom for a vehicle of its size. Although exact cargo capacity figures may vary, the cargo space with the rear seats folded enables enhanced loading capacity for larger items, making it suitable for small families or individuals needing a flexible compact car for daily commuting and weekend activities.

The curb weight of the Subaru Leone II Hatchback usually ranges around 950 to 1,000 kilograms (approximately 2,094 to 2,205 pounds), depending on trim levels and options. The relatively low weight contributes to the car’s nimble handling and fuel efficiency, especially important in the early 1980s when automotive technology was evolving. A lighter car often means better acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities, making the Leone II an enjoyable drive for its segment. This manageable weight also helps the car maintain better economy figures, an important consideration for buyers during the production period.

Yes, the Subaru Leone II Hatchback fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. Given its length of approximately 4,060 mm (159.8 inches) and width of about 1,590 mm (62.6 inches), it is smaller than many modern vehicles and well within typical garage dimensions, which are often around 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) in length and 2,500 mm (98.4 inches) in width. This size allows for easy parking and maneuvering inside most residential garages, providing owners with convenient storage that protects the vehicle from weather and security concerns.

Compared to its predecessor, the first-generation Subaru Leone hatchback produced in the mid-1970s, the second-generation Leone II Hatchback (1979-1984) offered slight dimensional increases aimed at improving interior space and road presence. The Leone II grew marginally in length and width, providing more passenger comfort and storage capacity without significantly increasing curb weight. This evolution in size reflects Subaru's focus on refining their compact hatchback design based on user feedback, resulting in a more practical and comfortable car while maintaining the original's hallmark agility and efficiency.

The Subaru Leone II Hatchback occupies a competitive position among early 1980s compact hatchbacks. Compared to contemporaries like the Toyota Corolla hatchback or the Honda Civic of the same era, the Leone offered similar dimensions with a length around 4,060 mm and width near 1,590 mm. Subaru's hallmark all-wheel-drive system in some variants added a unique performance and capability edge in adverse weather compared to many front-wheel-drive rivals. Its practical hatchback design and slightly taller height allowed for good headroom and cargo capacity. Overall, the Leone II balanced size and usability well within its segment.

The Subaru Leone II Hatchback introduced several key design changes over the first generation to improve aesthetics, functionality, and performance. Notably, the body lines became more angular and modern to align with late-1970s design trends, and the hatchback layout was refined for better cargo access and interior flexibility. Mechanically, there were updates to suspension and drivetrain options that improved ride quality and handling. The inclusion of more advanced safety features and updated interior ergonomics also reflected Subaru's efforts to enhance driver and passenger comfort while staying competitive in the compact market.

The Subaru Leone II Hatchback was typically offered with a range of flat-four (boxer) engines, with displacements usually around 1.3 to 1.8 liters depending on market and model year. The flat boxer engine layout contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving handling stability. Importantly, some variants came equipped with Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive system, which was a standout feature for compact cars of this time. This AWD system provided superior traction on slippery surfaces, making the Leone II versatile for diverse driving conditions. Transmission options included 4- or 5-speed manual gearboxes and in some markets, automatic transmissions.

The Subaru Leone II Hatchback is very practical for daily urban driving and parking due to its compact dimensions and responsive handling. With its length of about 4,060 mm (159.8 inches) and width close to 1,590 mm (62.6 inches), it fits easily into city parking spaces, including tighter spots where larger cars might struggle. The hatchback design enhances cargo flexibility, allowing users to carry groceries, luggage, or small furniture more conveniently than in a sedan. Additionally, its relatively light curb weight and optional all-wheel drive provide confident traction and maneuverability in a variety of weather and road conditions common in urban areas.

The Subaru Leone II Hatchback is notable for its durable and straightforward mechanical design, the use of boxer engines, and early availability of all-wheel drive in a compact hatchback. Its simple yet functional interior and practical hatchback layout were appreciated by users seeking efficiency and reliability. However, like many vehicles of its era, the Leone II could face issues related to rust, especially around wheel wells and underbody due to older corrosion protection standards. Some models may also suffer from wear in suspension components and carburetor tuning quirks if not properly maintained. Despite these common age-related concerns, the Leone II remains a beloved classic for enthusiasts of retro Japanese hatchbacks.