Last updated on July 11th, 2023 at 04:37 pm
Though, when you think of Subaru, you are thinking of reliability, fire-spitting, ruggedness, and dependable station wagon. Although, mighty-mite BRAT wears the Subaru badge as one of the excellent vehicles produced by Subaru.
In the 70s, it got into the “chicken tax” in the USA. The “chicken tax” means a 25% import tariff on all pickup vehicles not manufactured in the USA. Hence, Subaru got around this tax as it called the BRAT a “passenger vehicle.”
So, moving around the ‘chicken tax’ gave it an interesting distinction as Subaru made a set of rear-facing jump seats in the bed.
So far, the former US president, Ronald Reagan, owned a 1978 BRAT that he drove around his ranch.
In 1986, BRAT became one of the most reliable trucks (little car-truck) and had a custom header setup, giving it the classical Subaru “Boxer Rumble.”
In the same vein, it has no muffler, and the exhaust made under the door is thunderous and shoots flames.
Nevertheless, this article will bring to your understanding the following contents; a detailed Subaru BRAT review, Subaru BRAT tire size, is the Subaru BRAT rare, are Subaru BRATs reliable, can you still buy a Subaru BRAT, what does BRAT in Subaru stand for, are Subaru BRATs AWD and more.
Detailed Subaru BRAT Review
Engine Mechanism
Indeed, it was Subaru BRAT, which stood for Bi-Drive Recreational all-terrain transporter. Though, the Bi-Drive system meant that it was partly an All-Wheel-Drive system. Let’s look at the reason for making BRAT.
The high demand for smaller, compact SUVs in the USA made Subaru manufacture BRAT. So, BRAT shared the AWD and underpinnings system of the Subaru Leone station wagon.
Although it had a shorter wheelbase than the mini trucks and lived a short life in the USA, between 1978 to 1987, outside the shores of the USA, it had a longer life and was known as the 284, Brumby, shifter, Targa, MV. Perchance, there was no actual demand for it in Japan. 1978 had one engine option, 1.6liter H-4, EA-71 boxer- four push of 67hp, 81lbs-ft of torque, and a standard 4-speed manual transmission.
BRAT had an advancement a few years later as its displacement increased to 1.8liters, 73hp, and 94lb-ft of torque. From 1983 to 1984, made a turbocharged variant on the BRAT models having 95hp and 123lb-ft of torque.
Not to forget, BRAT made between 1978 to 1980 had a single-range transfer case, which later changed to a dual-range transfer case as of the 1981 model, and the turbo BRATs also had a single-range transfer and push-button AWD. Let’s also look at the interior and exterior features of the BRATS!
Exteriors Of The Subaru Brat
Essentially, the BRAT’s exterior design is iconic and a design you would wish to return, as Subaru didn’t look at the economic aspect as they took a wagon, removed the rear part, and made the BRAT.
Interior Of The Subaru BRAT
The interior of the BRAT is simple and consists of the speedometer, fuel indicator, and warning lights. Although, the odd features found in the BRAT are; air-conditioning vent that stretched out close to the passenger side, a sound when you open the two doors as the seats were covered with some comfortable fabric to sit on.
Subaru Brat Tire Size
The size of the Subaru BRAT’s tire depends on the year it was manufactured. Although below are the tire sizes for different years;
- 1983 Subaru BRAT has a tire size of 165-13 and 185/70/13 as in DL and GL options.
- 1984 Subaru BRAT has a tire size of 185/70/13 as in GL and GL Turbo options.
- 1985 Subaru BRAT has a tire size of 185/70/13 as in the GL option.
- 1986 Subaru BRAT has a tire size of 185/70/13 as in the GL option.
- 1987 Subaru BRAT has a tire size of 185/70/13 as in the GL option.
Note: each of the above has a rim size of 13-inch.
Is The Subaru BRAT Rare?
Yes, Subaru BRAT is rare to find for sale. Though Subaru BRAT is an iconic model of its period, having been an all-wheel drive, it was able to be the best among other cars because of its durability and incredible terrain power. Still, the obsession with compact trucks reduced the sale too. In the same vein, a few second-sellers due offer them online, but sincerely, they are not easy to find.
Are Subaru BRATs Reliable?
Yes. Subaru BRATs have been considered reliable, even up untill now. Its reliability made the former president of the USA, Ronald Reagen, to own it from 1978 to 1998. Furthermore, Subaru BRATs have high reliability, which is why they stood out among their competitors, as their engines were more significant than other small trucks on the market then.
Can You Still Buy A Subaru BRAT?
Of course, yes, you can. It is a matter of choice and purpose for purchasing it. I recommend you check out the parts if they are still on sale in the automobile shops and the year you want to buy them. The essence of this is for you to be accessible to replace any damage in the course of owning a Subaru BRAT. However, the BRAT is a classic car and a model of its size. Have it at heart that the older the model, the more classical it is, so sellers will eventually skyrocket the prices.
What Does BRAT In Subaru Stand For?
The BRAT stands for Bi-drive Recreational – terrain Transporter. The BRATs was one of the unique cars manufactured by Subaru in 1978; though many disliked it because of its design and style, many did appreciate it.
How Much Is A 1982 Subaru BRAT Worth?
Subaru BRAT made its entry as a small pickup truck in the global market in 1978 as a two-door coupe vehicle. Though the 1982 Subaru BRAT cost about $18,000 as of then, the current cost could be between $5,000 to $10,000. The model 1982 Subaru BRAT is difficult to find now if you want to own it.
Are All Subaru Brats AWD?
Ideally, yes, all Subaru BRATs are ADW. The BRATs made with all-wheel-drive from the Subaru Leone station wagon essentially had a button that switched AWD on and off since the bi-drive in its name originated from the model of 1978.
How Many Subaru Brats Were Made?
Subaru manufactured about 800,000 BRATs and sold only 100,000 BRATs in the USA. Presently, only a few are left, so if you want to own one, kindly find it online at eBay motors.
Are Subaru Brats Good In The Snow?
Yes, Subaru BRATs are suitable for moving or dashing through the snow. Although your BRAT will leap through the snow, after all, it is all-wheel-drive (AWD). As it is proven that the little Subaru BRAT remains a great little truck, it holds much grip on what Pastrana intended to do.
Is Subaru BRAT 4WD?
Subaru BRAT is 4WD for sure. As the name implies, Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter. It is a light-duty, four-wheel drive coupe utility sold between 1978 to 1994 to compete firmly with other cars like; Toyota, Nissan, and Mazda.
This four-wheel drive feature made it outstanding and famous on the shores of North America, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and other parts of Europe.
How Fast Is A Subaru BRAT?
Indeed, people appreciated Subaru due to their all-wheel-drive sports vehicles that have combined daily utility with excellent performance and outstanding turbocharged flat-four engines. Hence, the BRAT is a brumby in many parts of the world as it holds a world record by notching a 7.61-second quarter-mile with a four-cylinder engine. However, it is fast but not like the modern vehicle produced by Subaru.
What Engine Is In A Subaru BRAT?
The engine in a Subaru BRAT progressed from 1.6-liter with a 4-speed transmission, 67-hp, and 81lb-ft as the first model in 1978. Though in 1980 to 1985, advancement came into existence as the engine moved to 1.8liters, 73-hp, 3-speed transmission, 94lb-ft, and the turbocharged having a 95-hp and 123lb-ft. Indeed, it became an option to drive the BRAT as an automatic feature was made available for those who preferred it.
FAQ:
How Much Is A Subaru Brat?
If you are looking to buy a Subaru BRAT, it is very difficult to find these days. However, some experts estimate that there were 800,000 of these models produced in its lifetime, but only around 300 to 900 are still available for purchase.
How Many Subaru Brats Were Made?
The number of Subaru BRATs manufactured was about 800,000, with a more significant number sold in Europe and North America.
How Much Does A Subaru Brat Cost or How Much Is A Subaru Brat Worth
The worth or cost of Subaru BRAT was $18,000 on average when it was at its prime and demanded on the high side, but now, the price has since gone to around $5,000 to $10,000. This price range could fall or rise due to the brat mileage, history, and condition since it is a classic vehicle.
What Years Did They Make the Subaru Brat?
Subaru BRAT was manufactured in 1978 by Subaru with a classic style. It was one of the best vehicles in the 80’s that a few cared for since it shared its position on the top in the automobile world like Volvo240, Merkur XR4Ti, and Toyota Celica. The BRAT has a better fuel economy than other mini-trucks on sale during that period.
A Subaru Brat Look Like?
The BRAT looks like a wagon whose rear side is open. However, it is an iconic vehicle, possessing two doors and installing a rear-facing seat in its cargo area to make this pickup truck look like a family car. Perchance, the seats seem like a deathtrap, without seatbelts and a handlebar attached for safety. Hence, the top has a split roof popular in the 80s though made available on request.
How Many Subaru Brats Are Left?
Although it is rare and difficult to find, precisely the statistical data is difficult to put down.
What Years Was The Subaru Brat Made?
Subaru made the BRATs in the year 1978. Subsequently, many other models manufactured were in 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, and 1990 with some features that differ slightly from the 1978 model.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Subaru BRAT, also known as a baby truck with two doors, is an incredible model for its period. Indeed, it was the only 4WD and small truck that stood out among all competitors because of its better fuel economy, reliability, durability, and all-terrain design (ability to move quickly on mud, snow, and more).
Nevertheless, the obsession for more compact trucks reduced the yell for more BRATs. Today, it has become so challenging to buy Subaru BRAT, and if you eventually do find one, the cost will be between $5000 to $10,000 or more, depending on how classic it is. Get the right BRAT for yourself, and remember to like and share this post with others! 11 Best VIN Number Lookup Free Sites
Hi dear, my name is Jeffery Ekweghi, and I am a certified mechanic and autobody parts technician. I created this site to share my expertise and experience with car lovers looking to resolve their car-related issues. I am certified in private cars and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. I have worked as a mechanic since 2015 and have experience in vehicle brands like Subaru, Jeep, Toyota, TATA, BMW, Mazda, Honda, Nissan, Kia, TVs, and Others; however, I primarily specialize in Toyota vehicles.
