Proposed US regulations killed off much of the convertible market for the late 70s and early 80s. This is why targa tops, t-tops and those strange semi-fixed-roof cabriolets were so relatively common. We all know the free market is always smarter than regulators, and proof came in the growth of coachbuilding during the same period. While coachbuilders once supplied bodies to mate to OEM frames, 1970s and 80s coachbuilders chopped tops to meet convertible demand up until the rebirth of factory US convertibles around 1983.
This example is a chopped Subaru GL by American Custom Coachworks which, it turns out, is still in business, doing limousines, etc. Though close-ups are lacking here, this appears to be pretty well done. We just have to ask the question: why a Subaru GL?? GLs could be had in front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. We don’t see AWD badges here, so that may not be the answer…
Lewiston, ME
$5,600 BIN or offers
Grey over blue is a cool combination. The rather basic Subie wheels really look out of place now.
Apparently, the top does go up. Note the structure on the right side of the photo…we might have ‘outbuilding envy.’
Interior is decent enough and the car does have a clutch pedal, so we’re happy with it.
Ad text:
This is a rare car. Very few ever made.
1983 Subaru GL 2 door Convertible. Silver Gray color with Gray interior. 4 Cylinder, 5 speed (great gas mileage, 35 mpg), 1.6 Engine, 124,000 miles. Always garaged and in great condition. Drives great. Driven only during the Summertime. Selling because I just have too many vehicles. Great car and lots of fun to drive with the top down on a beautiful day. Looking for a buyer who will appreciate it as much as I have. Email with questions or to discuss a reasonable offer.
No, Subaru never actually made this car. The convertible top is a conversion done by American Custom Coachworks in 1983. Many different vehicles were adapted to convertibles during this time period. There were only a few GL convertibles made by this Southern California company in 1983-84. They cut the top off a GL 2 dr. This “coachworks” trend came about due to increased safety regulations on automakers which lead to them not producing convertibles in these years. When safety regulations were standardized then auto manufacturers started making convertibles again and this coach industry disappeared.