Subaru Brat
In the automotive industry which paradigm shifts from one generation to another,
a good vision of what the future vehicle preference would be is critical. That
is why, a good timing is essential to create the one-of-a-kind vehicle.
In August of 1977, Subaru introduced their all-new crossover vehicle which at
the same time is one of the first crossover vehicles produced. The Subaru BRAT
or the “Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter” was right on timing as
the years of non-conformity rules. The name also fitted the era as it markets
to younger generations looking for alternative vehicle. The Subaru BRAT was two-door,
four wheel drive station wagon which looks like a pickup truck with its bed and
tailgate. Classified as a recreational vehicle (RV), the Subaru BRAT was very
popular not only in the US soil but also on other parts of the world. The BRAT
was first powered by 1.6 L engine with 66 hp. Engine was brought up to 1.8 L 73
hp in 1982. The 1983 and 1984 models were available in an optional 94 hp turbocharged
engine.
The last Brat was last produced in 1988. It was also known by the name Subaru
Brumby in Australia, Multipurpose Vehicle (MV) in Europe, and simply as Subaru
Pickup in Israel. In 2002, the BRAT was ressurected with the introduction of the
Subaru Baja.