"Rare Find: A 1992 Subaru SVX in the Junkyard"

The initial introduction of Subaru vehicles in the United States dates back to 1968 when Malcolm Bricklin brought over compact kei cars. These were followed by the slightly larger Leones a few years later. The 1980s saw the arrival of bigger and more well-equipped Leones, as well as the sleek XT sports car.

The XT was succeeded by the SVX in 1992, a vehicle that turned heads with its bold design. This particular first-year SVX model was found in a Colorado junkyard by a car enthusiast. Known as the Alcyone XT and Alcyone SVX in Japan, these vehicles were named after the brightest star in the constellation reflected in Subaru's logo.

The SVX was the first Subaru in the US to come equipped with a six-cylinder engine, providing ample power with its 3.3-liter DOHC unit generating 230 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque. Due to the high output of the engine, all SVX models in the US were fitted with a four-speed automatic transmission as Subaru did not have a manual option that could handle the power.

While these transmissions had some reliability issues initially, Subaru eventually improved their automatics to withstand the H6 engines. In the early years, all US-market SVXs were configured with all-wheel drive, but front-wheel drive versions were available for later model years. The SVX was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, featuring a distinctive window-within-a-window side glass treatment that set it apart from other vehicles on the road.

Priced as the most expensive Subaru available in the US during its production from 1992 to 1997, the SVX represented a departure from Subaru's unusual designs, eventually paving the way for the brand's focus on practical all-wheel-drive vehicles. Despite its high price tag, the SVX was a unique and stylish addition to the Subaru lineup. This particular SVX had almost reached 200,000 miles before ending up in the junkyard, a testament to its durability.

While it could reach speeds of over 140 miles per hour, its performance capabilities may not have been a top priority for urban commuters dealing with traffic congestion and rising gas prices. Despite its sporty design, the SVX's home-market TV commercials did not necessarily focus on its performance features.