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Turbocharge Your Ride: How to Make Subaru Legacy Faster with DIY Upgrades

Quick notes

  • This can be achieved through a re-flash of the ECU or by using an aftermarket ECU like a Cobb Accessport.
  • Adding a supercharger or turbocharger to a naturally aspirated engine can significantly increase horsepower and torque.
  • A simple intake and exhaust upgrade might yield a modest increase, while a turbocharger or supercharger upgrade can result in substantial gains.

The Subaru Legacy is known for its reliability, safety, and all-wheel drive prowess. But for some, its stock performance might leave them wanting more. If you’re looking to how to make Subaru Legacy faster, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will explore various methods to boost your Legacy’s performance, from simple modifications to more involved upgrades.

Breathing Room: Intake and Exhaust Modifications

The first step to unlocking your Legacy’s potential lies in optimizing its air intake and exhaust systems. These modifications allow the engine to breathe more efficiently, leading to increased horsepower and torque.

  • Intake System: Replacing the stock air filter with a high-flow alternative like a K&N filter can improve airflow and reduce intake restriction. You can also consider upgrading to a cold air intake system, which draws cooler, denser air into the engine for better combustion.
  • Exhaust System: Upgrading the exhaust system can reduce backpressure and improve engine breathing. Consider a cat-back exhaust system, which replaces the stock exhaust from the catalytic converter to the tailpipe. Opting for a high-flow catalytic converter can also enhance performance.

Unleashing the Power: Engine Tuning

Engine tuning involves modifying the engine’s control unit (ECU) to optimize its performance parameters. This can be done through various methods like:

  • ECU Tuning: A professional tune can adjust the engine’s fuel mapping, ignition timing, and other parameters to maximize power output. This can be achieved through a re-flash of the ECU or by using an aftermarket ECU like a Cobb Accessport.
  • Boost Controller: For turbocharged Legacies, a boost controller allows you to adjust the boost pressure, resulting in increased power. However, it’s crucial to ensure the engine components can handle the increased boost levels.

Grip and Go: Suspension and Tires

A well-tuned suspension and grippy tires are essential for handling and acceleration.

  • Suspension Upgrades: Replacing the stock suspension with aftermarket components like coilovers or adjustable struts can improve handling, reduce body roll, and enhance responsiveness.
  • Tires: Opting for high-performance tires with a lower profile and a higher grip rating can improve traction and enhance acceleration. Consider tires designed for performance driving or track use.

Weight Reduction: The Lighter, the Faster

Reducing the vehicle’s weight can have a significant impact on performance.

  • Weight Reduction: Remove unnecessary items from the car, such as spare tires, jack, and tools. Consider lightweight wheels and other components to further reduce weight.
  • Lightweight Materials: Replacing heavy components like the stock exhaust system with lighter alternatives made of materials like titanium or stainless steel can also help.

Beyond the Basics: Performance Upgrades

For those seeking a more significant performance boost, consider these advanced upgrades:

  • Turbocharger Upgrade: If your Legacy is turbocharged, upgrading to a larger turbocharger can deliver significant power gains. However, this requires careful consideration of supporting modifications like fuel injectors and exhaust systems.
  • Supercharger: Installing a supercharger can boost power output without the need for extensive engine modifications.
  • Forced Induction: Adding a supercharger or turbocharger to a naturally aspirated engine can significantly increase horsepower and torque.

The Finish Line: Performance Enhancement Tips

  • Regular Maintenance: Ensure your Legacy is properly maintained with regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other essential services.
  • Proper Driving Technique: Learn proper driving techniques like smooth acceleration and braking to maximize performance.
  • Professional Installation: For complex modifications, seek professional installation from a reputable shop to ensure proper fitment and functionality.

The End of the Road: Final Thoughts

Making your Subaru Legacy faster is a rewarding endeavor. By implementing the modifications outlined in this guide, you can unleash your Legacy’s true potential and enjoy a more exhilarating driving experience. Remember to prioritize safety and perform all modifications responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much horsepower can I expect to gain with these modifications?

A: The horsepower gains vary depending on the specific modifications implemented. A simple intake and exhaust upgrade might yield a modest increase, while a turbocharger or supercharger upgrade can result in substantial gains.

Q: Are these modifications legal?

A: Most modifications are legal, but it’s essential to check local regulations and ensure compliance. Some modifications, like exhaust systems that produce excessive noise, may not be permitted.

Q: How much do these modifications cost?

A: The cost of modifications can range from a few hundred dollars for simple upgrades like an intake or exhaust system to thousands for more advanced upgrades like turbochargers or superchargers.

Q: Is it worth it to make my Subaru Legacy faster?

A: Whether it’s worth it depends on your individual preferences and budget. If you enjoy performance driving and want to enhance your Legacy’s capabilities, these modifications can be worthwhile. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency or are on a tight budget, these upgrades may not be necessary.

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BJ
About the Author
My name is Bob Jenkins and I'm thrilled to share my automotive adventures with you here on mphdiary.com. Cars have always been a passion of mine, especially sporty yet practical Japanese models. For the past 10 years, I've been driving various Nissan vehicles and am constantly enjoying learning more about...