I was given a starter presumably form an 87 gl or 92 loyale 5spd to use as a replacemetn in a 96 impreza 4eat. It works. I figured it would, but i had a doubt for a minute. I should have known this already. Well, i guess i did since i went after it. The original starter has a bullnose and a different starter body and solenoid.

 

 

I recall something different between them, perhaps the depth of engagement.. but its been a few years since I measured them on the bench. But hey, if it works... it works right.

Come to think of it, my ej swapped 3door with RX trans has a bullnose starter. I did have to space some washers for engagement, but because EJ swap

I do know there are 2 different sizes of hole in the bellhousings.

 

Starters have a cast ring that seats into the hole, some are small and some are larger.........can't really say which is which but there are basically 2 types of subaru starters.