Intro
The Subaru Legacy B4 emerged in 1998 as a high-performance variant of the third-generation Legacy, representing the pinnacle of Subaru’s sedan engineering during a golden era of Japanese performance cars. With its twin-turbo EJ20 engine and sophisticated all-wheel drive system, the B4 embodied Subaru’s rally-bred technology in a sophisticated executive package.
In JDM culture, the Legacy B4 holds special significance as a “sleeper” performance car—offering Impreza WRX-rivaling performance in a more mature, understated design. While its STI-badged siblings received greater attention abroad, enthusiasts recognize the B4 as one of Subaru’s hidden gems—a car that balanced everyday practicality with exhilarating performance and bulletproof reliability.
This particular build showcases the untapped potential of the Legacy B4 platform. While many enthusiasts gravitate toward more obvious JDM icons, this meticulously modified example demonstrates how the B4 can be transformed into a compelling performance machine while maintaining the sophisticated character that distinguished it from Subaru’s more aggressive models.
Builder Profile
Nakamura is deeply involved in the Pacific Northwest Subaru community, organizing seasonal touge runs through mountain passes and mentoring younger enthusiasts on proper modification etiquette. His Legacy B4 represents his philosophy that “evolution beats revolution,” featuring thoughtful upgrades accumulated over seven years of ownership rather than radical overnight transformations.
While not as flashy as some builders, Takumi’s attention to suspension geometry and power delivery has earned respect among performance-focused enthusiasts and fellow Japanese imports in the region’s competitive time attack scene.
Why We Love It
The Legacy B4 RSK represents Subaru’s brilliance during Japan’s golden automotive era. While the WRX STI hoarded headlines, this sleeper sedan quietly mastered the art of refined performance. Its twin-scroll EJ20 turbocharged boxer produces a distinctive horizontally-opposed growl that rises with mechanical precision as the tachometer sweeps toward 7,000 RPM.
The B4’s chassis communicates with exceptional clarity through its hydraulic steering—a tactile connection lost in today’s electric systems. Its symmetrical AWD delivers torque with remarkable neutrality, allowing confident corner exits in conditions that would unsettle lesser vehicles. The five-speed manual‘s notchy precision rewards deliberate shifts, creating a driving experience that demands engagement rather than merely tolerating it.
Aesthetically, the BE-chassis Legacy represents Japanese restraint at its finest. Its three-box silhouette eschews unnecessary adornment, while subtle touches—the hood scoop, quad exhausts, and understated rear spoiler—hint at its capabilities without shouting them. The cabin’s driver-centric ergonomics reflect an era when functionality trumped fashion.
With only limited examples exported outside Japan, the B4 RSK represents a moment when Subaru’s engineering prowess translated into something truly special—a practical performance car that sacrificed neither comfort nor capability.
Mods
Engine & Drivetrain
- HKS Hi-Power Exhaust System
- ARC Intercooler
- Blitz SUS Power Air Filter
- Cusco Oil Catch Can
- STI Twin-Scroll IHI VF34 Turbocharger
- Tomei Expreme Unequal Length Headers
- Samco Silicone Hose Kit
- Exedy Hyper Single Clutch Kit
- SARD Fuel Pressure Regulator
- Koyo Aluminum Radiator
Suspension & Brakes
- Tein Super Street Coilovers
- Cusco Front and Rear Strut Bars
- Cusco Lower Arm Bars
- Whiteline Anti-Roll Bar Kit
- KAAZ 1.5-Way Limited Slip Differential
- Brembo 4-Pot Front Calipers
- Project μ Club Racer Brake Pads
- Goodridge Stainless Brake Lines
- STI Pink Brake Calipers (Rear)
Wheels & Tires
- RAYS Volk Racing TE37 18×8.5 +35 Bronze
- Work Emotion CR Kai 18×8.5 +38 White
- Advan Racing RGIII 18×9.0 +35 Hyper Black
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R 225/40R18
- Falken Azenis RT615K 225/40R18
- Project Kics R40 Neo Chrome Lug Nuts
Exterior / Aero
- Chargespeed Bottom Line Carbon Front Lip
- HKS Carbon GT Wing
- STI Side Skirts
- Ganador Super Mirrors
- JDM Fog Light Kit with Yellow Lens
- Zero Sports Carbon Hood
- APR Carbon Fiber License Plate Frame
- Seibon Carbon Trunk
- JDM Rainguards
Interior
- Bride Zeta III Low Max Bucket Seats
- Personal Neo Grinta Steering Wheel with Works Bell Hub
- Defi Advance BF Series Gauges (Boost, Oil Pressure, EGT)
- Cusco 6-Point Roll Cage
- Nardi Shift Knob
- STI Floor Mats
- Beatrush Aluminum Pedals
- ARC Titanium Shift Knob
- Takata 4-Point Harnesses
Electronics / ECU
- HKS F-CON V Pro ECU
- Apexi Power FC Engine Management
- Pivot 3-Drive Throttle Controller
- Blitz Dual Turbo Timer
- Alpine 7998R Head Unit
- HKS EVC Electronic Boost Controller
- Kenwood Excelon Component Speakers
- JL Audio 10W6 Subwoofer
- Pivot Multi Gauge II
- Viper 5901 Alarm System with Remote Start
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
The modifications on this 2000 Subaru Legacy B4 come together in a harmonious blend that prioritizes balanced performance for spirited street driving with occasional track capability. The power upgrades—including the VF34 turbo, STI intercooler, and exhaust system—deliver responsive mid-range torque rather than pursuing maximum power figures, preserving the car’s everyday driveability while providing satisfying acceleration.
The suspension modifications strike a careful compromise between handling precision and ride quality. With Tein coilovers, Whiteline sway bars, and polyurethane bushings, the chassis maintains compliance over rough surfaces while substantially reducing body roll during aggressive cornering. The Enkei RPF1 wheels wrapped in sticky 225-width tires enhance grip without introducing excessive tramlining or harshness.
This build follows a purposeful “street-plus” philosophy—a daily driver with enhanced capabilities that doesn’t sacrifice reliability or comfort. Unlike dedicated time attack builds with stripped interiors or extreme drift cars with specialized steering angles, this Legacy maintains full interior amenities while offering performance that exceeds stock specifications by a meaningful margin. The subtle exterior modifications and tasteful wheel fitment reflect a sleeper aesthetic that values function over flash, embodying the understated performance heritage of the Legacy B4 platform.
FAQ
How reliable is the 2000 Subaru Legacy B4?
The 2000 Legacy B4 is generally reliable when properly maintained. The EJ20 twin-turbo engine can reach 200,000+ miles with regular oil changes and timing belt service at 105,000 miles. Head gasket issues are less common than in naturally aspirated models, but should be monitored on higher mileage examples.
What are the most common issues with the 2000 Legacy B4?
Common issues include turbo failure, particularly on poorly maintained examples, oxygen sensor failures, deteriorating vacuum lines, and power steering pump leaks. Models with the automatic transmission may experience shift solenoid problems after 150,000 miles. Rust can appear around rear wheel arches in regions using road salt.
What’s the tuning potential for the Legacy B4?
The twin-turbo EJ20 responds well to tuning, with modest modifications yielding 260-280hp (up from 217hp stock). A proper ECU tune, upgraded intercooler, aftermarket exhaust, and cold air intake can produce substantial gains. More extensive modifications including larger turbochargers can push beyond 350hp, though reliability becomes a concern without supporting modifications.
What are the best modifications for a Legacy B4?
The most effective modifications include a cat-back exhaust system, front-mount intercooler, ECU reflash, upgraded fuel injectors, and stiffer sway bars for improved handling. For reliability, upgraded turbo oil lines and an oil catch can are recommended. STI suspension components are direct bolt-ons that greatly improve handling.
How does the B4 compare to the WRX of the same era?
The Legacy B4 offers more refinement, comfort and luxury features than the contemporary WRX, with similar performance from its twin-turbo setup. The B4 has a more understated appearance but slightly heavier chassis. While the WRX has more aftermarket support, the B4 delivers a more mature driving experience with its superior sound insulation and ride quality.
What maintenance is critical for Legacy B4 ownership?
Regular oil changes every 3,500-5,000 miles with high-quality synthetic oil are essential. The timing belt service at 105,000 miles is critical and should include water pump replacement. Turbochargers require clean oil and proper warm-up/cool-down periods. Transmission fluid changes are recommended every 30,000 miles despite Subaru’s “lifetime fluid” claim.
Is the Legacy B4 a good collector car investment?
The Legacy B4 is increasingly recognized as a collectible, particularly unmodified examples with complete service history. As JDM sport sedans gain popularity among enthusiasts, prices have begun appreciating. The twin-turbo B4 represents the golden era of Japanese performance cars and offers distinctive character compared to more common performance imports.
Conclusion
The 2000 Subaru Legacy B4 stands as a demonstration of Japanese engineering excellence that continues to resonate with automotive enthusiasts two decades later. Its perfect blend of practical four-door usability with genuine sports car performance created a package that remains relevant in today’s market where driving engagement is increasingly rare.
The B4’s twin-turbo boxer engine, symmetrical AWD system, and driver-focused design philosophy represent core values that transcend time—values of performance without pretension, reliability without compromise. As modern vehicles grow increasingly computerized and isolated from the road, the B4’s direct mechanical feel and analog driving experience have only appreciated in enthusiast circles.
Within JDM culture, the Legacy B4 occupies a special position as an understated performance icon. While less flamboyant than its WRX and STI siblings, the B4 has cultivated a dedicated following who appreciate its “sleeper” status and mature execution. As import restrictions continue to ease for 25-year-old vehicles, the Legacy B4’s position in the enthusiast market grows stronger, representing a distinctive alternative to more common JDM imports.
The Legacy B4 embodies the golden era of Japanese performance cars—a time when engineering innovation and driving pleasure took precedence. For those who recognize its significance, the B4 isn’t just a car from the past but a standard against which modern sports sedans continue to be measured.