1985 Subaru Leone III Station Wagon Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Subaru Leone III Station Wagon varies depending on the specific model and options but generally ranges around 1,000 to 1,100 kg (2,200 to 2,425 lbs). This relatively light weight for a station wagon contributes positively to fuel efficiency, handling, and acceleration. The lighter build helps the car be more agile on roads, especially given its compact size, making it easier to drive in city traffic or on winding country roads. Furthermore, the weight supports its modest engine options, optimizing performance without demanding excessive power.

The Subaru Leone III Station Wagon provides a spacious and practical interior layout typical of station wagons of its era. Passenger space comfortably accommodates five occupants with sufficient headroom and legroom, thanks to its 1,410 mm (55.5 inches) height and well-designed cabin. The rear cargo area is versatile, offering a generous load floor that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats for additional storage capacity. This makes it quite suitable for families, road trips, or carrying bulky items, balancing passenger comfort with functional cargo space effectively.

Yes, the Subaru Leone III Station Wagon fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Typical single-car garages have interior dimensions of about 2,500 mm (98 inches) in width and at least 5,000 mm (197 inches) in length. Given the Leone's length of approximately 4,370 mm (172 inches) and width of about 1,635 mm (64.4 inches), there is sufficient clearance to park the vehicle without difficulty. Its relatively low height also ensures it suits garages with standard door heights, making it practical for everyday use and storage.

Compared to its predecessor, the Subaru Leone II, the Leone III Station Wagon offers slightly larger dimensions emphasizing improved interior space and enhanced comfort. The Leone III grew longer and wider by approximately 50 to 100 mm (about 2 to 4 inches) in length and width, depending on exact model variants. These dimension increases contributed to more passenger legroom and cargo volume without sacrificing the compactness that made the Leone series popular. Additionally, the design refinements in the Leone III improved aerodynamics and road presence versus the previous generation.

The Subaru Leone III Station Wagon is fairly typical in size compared to other compact station wagons from the mid-1980s, such as the Toyota Corolla wagon and Honda Civic wagon of similar periods. Its length of roughly 4.37 meters (172 inches) places it squarely in the compact category, offering less bulk than mid-size wagons but more cargo room than small hatchbacks. In terms of width and height, it is somewhat narrower and lower than some competitors, which may aid in maneuverability and parking. Overall, the Leone III balances practicality, compactness, and cargo capacity well for its segment and era.

The Subaru Leone III Station Wagon features a relatively low and flat roofline with an overall height of approximately 1,410 mm (55.5 inches). This design helps reduce aerodynamic drag and contributes to a sportier, sleeker look compared to taller wagons. While the lower height may slightly limit headroom compared to taller SUVs, the Leone balances this by maximizing internal space efficiently to retain comfortable passenger space and cargo capacity. The roofline also allows for easier access to rooftop cargo carriers and typically fits standard garage door heights comfortably.

The wheelbase of the Subaru Leone III Station Wagon measures approximately 2,420 mm (95.3 inches), giving it a stable and comfortable ride due to balanced front and rear overhangs. Ground clearance typically ranges around 170 to 180 mm (6.7 to 7.1 inches), which is adequate for most paved and mild off-road conditions. This clearance supports its reputation for versatility, allowing it to handle gravel roads and light snow while maintaining stable handling characteristics. The combination of wheelbase and ground clearance makes the Leone III a reliable, all-around practical station wagon.

The Subaru Leone III Station Wagon came with a range of engine options including both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions of Subaru’s flat-four (boxer) engines, ranging in displacement from 1.6 to 2.0 liters. Some markets received gasoline or diesel variants. Drivetrain options varied as well, with both front-wheel drive and Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive systems available. This flexibility allowed the Leone III to suit different consumer needs—from fuel-efficient urban commuting to enhanced traction for snow and rough roads—making it versatile for a variety of driving conditions.

Compared to modern station wagons, the Subaru Leone III is smaller in overall dimensions and interior volume, reflecting the design trends of the 1980s. Modern wagons often feature greater length, width, and height to optimize passenger comfort, crash safety, and cargo space. However, the Leone III’s compact size offers advantages in urban maneuverability, parking ease, and lower weight, which can translate to better fuel economy in certain driving conditions. While it lacks some modern amenities and space efficiency innovations, it remains a practical and functional vehicle for those valuing compact yet versatile station wagons.