1985 Subaru Automobile marked a significant year for the Japanese automaker, as it introduced several new models and solidified its reputation for reliability and all-wheel-drive capability. This era saw the rise of the iconic Subaru Legacy, the introduction of the sporty XT, and the continued success of the compact Brat and the rugged Loyale.
These vehicles offered a blend of practicality, affordability, and performance that resonated with drivers seeking a unique and dependable driving experience.
This comprehensive overview delves into the key features, design elements, performance characteristics, and cultural impact of 1985 Subaru models, providing insights into their evolution and legacy. We’ll explore the engineering innovations, styling trends, and marketing strategies that shaped the brand’s identity during this pivotal year.
1985 Subaru Model Overview
The 1985 Subaru model year marked a significant period for the Japanese automaker, showcasing a range of vehicles designed to appeal to diverse driving needs. From the compact and fuel-efficient hatchback to the versatile wagon and the rugged station wagon, Subaru offered a variety of options for those seeking reliable and practical transportation.
Model Overview
The 1985 Subaru lineup featured a selection of models, each tailored to specific requirements. The core models included:
- Subaru Brat: The Brat, a unique and quirky vehicle, was classified as a “mini-truck” in the United States. It featured a small, two-door cab with a bed in the rear, offering a blend of utility and practicality. The Brat was powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and offered a manual transmission.
- Subaru Justy: The Justy, a compact hatchback, was designed to provide fuel-efficient transportation for urban dwellers. Its small size and lightweight construction contributed to its impressive fuel economy. The Justy was powered by a 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine and offered a manual transmission.
- Subaru Leone: The Leone, a versatile and popular model, was available in various body styles, including a sedan, a hatchback, and a station wagon. It was known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and dependable performance. The Leone was powered by a 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and offered both manual and automatic transmissions.
The 1985 Subaru Automobile marked a significant shift in the brand’s design language, introducing a more modern and aerodynamic aesthetic. This trend continued into the 1990s, with models like the 1998 Subaru Sambar showcasing a compact and functional design. While the Sambar was primarily a commercial vehicle, it highlighted Subaru’s commitment to practicality and innovative engineering, a philosophy that would influence the development of future 1985 Subaru Automobile models.
- Subaru Loyale: The Loyale, a rugged and capable station wagon, was designed for those seeking a vehicle that could handle challenging driving conditions. It featured a higher ground clearance and a durable construction, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures.
The Loyale was powered by a 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and offered both manual and automatic transmissions.
Engine and Transmission Options
Subaru offered a range of engine options and transmissions in its 1985 models. The engines were primarily four-cylinder units, known for their fuel efficiency and reliability. The transmissions included both manual and automatic options, providing drivers with choices based on their preferences and driving styles.
Production Numbers, 1985 Subaru Automobile
| Model | Body Style | Engine | Transmission | Production Numbers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Brat | Mini-Truck | 1.6-liter four-cylinder | Manual | 10,000 |
| Subaru Justy | Hatchback | 1.0-liter four-cylinder | Manual | 15,000 |
| Subaru Leone | Sedan, Hatchback, Station Wagon | 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter four-cylinder | Manual or Automatic | 40,000 |
| Subaru Loyale | Station Wagon | 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder | Manual or Automatic | 35,000 |
Design and Styling
The 1985 Subaru models, despite being relatively small cars, were designed with a focus on practicality and functionality. They featured a boxy, utilitarian aesthetic that was typical of the era, but with a distinctive Japanese flair. This design philosophy prioritized space and versatility, reflecting the growing popularity of compact cars in the 1980s.
Styling Compared to Contemporaries
The 1985 Subaru models stood out from their contemporaries in several ways. While other compact cars of the time, like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, were adopting more rounded, aerodynamic designs, Subaru remained committed to its boxy, practical aesthetic.
This approach resulted in a distinct visual identity for the brand, appealing to a specific segment of buyers who valued functionality over flashy styling.
The Subaru Badge and its Evolution
The Subaru badge, featuring the constellation of the Pleiades, was introduced in 1971 and has remained a symbol of the brand’s heritage and identity. In 1985, the badge was redesigned, with a more modern and streamlined look, reflecting the brand’s evolving design language.
This updated badge, featuring a more stylized Pleiades, became synonymous with the brand’s commitment to innovation and reliability, while retaining the core values of its heritage.
1985 Subaru Model Designs
The table below showcases the unique design features of each 1985 Subaru model:| Model | Image | Design Features ||—|—|—|| Subaru Brat | [Image of a 1985 Subaru Brat] | The Brat, a unique “mini-truck” model, featured a distinctive design with a flatbed rear cargo area, open-air seating in the rear, and a robust, utilitarian aesthetic.
|| Subaru Loyale | [Image of a 1985 Subaru Loyale] | The Loyale, a compact hatchback, featured a practical, boxy design with a large cargo area, a spacious interior, and a focus on functionality. || Subaru GL | [Image of a 1985 Subaru GL] | The GL, a compact sedan, featured a more refined design with a sleek, rounded profile, a spacious interior, and a focus on comfort and practicality.
|| Subaru XT | [Image of a 1985 Subaru XT] | The XT, a sporty coupe, featured a distinctive design with a low-slung profile, a sloping roofline, and a focus on performance and handling. |
Performance and Handling: 1985 Subaru Automobile
The 1985 Subaru models, while not known for their blistering speed, offered a unique combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and surprisingly capable handling, especially for their time. The all-wheel drive system, a defining feature of Subaru, played a significant role in their performance and handling characteristics.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
The 1985 Subaru lineup featured a range of engines, each offering a different blend of power and efficiency. The most common engine was the 1.6-liter flat-four, which produced around 73 horsepower. While not particularly powerful, it was known for its smooth operation and fuel efficiency, delivering around 25 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the highway.
The larger 1.8-liter engine, found in the GL and DL models, offered a bit more power, around 82 horsepower, but came with a slight decrease in fuel economy.
Handling and Driving Experience
The 1985 Subaru models, particularly those equipped with all-wheel drive, were praised for their handling and driving experience, especially in challenging conditions. The low center of gravity, thanks to the horizontally opposed engine layout, contributed to a stable and predictable feel on the road.
The all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction in slippery conditions, making them ideal for snowy or rainy weather. However, the suspension, while competent, could be a bit on the firm side, which could translate to a somewhat harsh ride on rough roads.
The Role of Subaru’s All-Wheel Drive System
Subaru’s all-wheel drive system, known as “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive,” was a key differentiator for the 1985 models. It provided a significant advantage in terms of traction and handling, especially in adverse weather conditions. Unlike many other all-wheel drive systems of the time, Subaru’s system was permanent, meaning all four wheels were always powered, offering consistent traction and stability.
This feature made the 1985 Subaru models particularly appealing to drivers in areas with frequent snowfall or rain.
The 1985 Subaru automobile lineup was a pivotal year for the brand, marking the introduction of the popular Legacy model. This year also saw the continuation of the long-running Leone series, which offered a range of body styles, including the popular wagon and hatchback.
While the 1985 Leone was a solid offering, its successor, the 1986 Subaru Leone , brought several refinements, including a new engine and a more aerodynamic design. The 1985 Subaru lineup, however, continued to be a popular choice for its reliability and affordability, paving the way for the brand’s continued success in the years to come.
Reliability and Durability
The 1985 Subaru models were generally known for their reliability and durability. The simple and robust engine design, combined with the relatively basic mechanical components, contributed to their longevity. Many examples of these cars are still on the road today, testament to their robust construction.
However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability.
Interior and Features
The 1985 Subaru models offered a functional and practical interior designed for both everyday driving and occasional adventures. While not known for luxurious appointments, they provided a comfortable and well-equipped cabin for their time.
Interior Design and Materials
The interior design of 1985 Subaru models reflected the practicality and durability that the brand was known for. The dashboard was simple and functional, featuring clear gauges and easy-to-use controls. The materials used were durable and hard-wearing, including vinyl upholstery, hard plastics, and robust carpets.
The 1985 Subaru Automobile marked a significant shift in the brand’s design language, emphasizing practicality and affordability. This focus on everyday utility continued in later models like the 1992 Subaru Sambar , a kei car designed for urban environments.
While the Sambar was a compact marvel, the 1985 Subaru exemplified the brand’s commitment to building reliable vehicles for a wide range of drivers.
While not luxurious, these materials were designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use and hold up well over time.
Standard and Optional Features
Subaru models came equipped with a range of standard features designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience. These included features like:
- A basic AM/FM radio for entertainment
- Heater and defroster for climate control
- Vinyl upholstery for durability
- Basic instrumentation for monitoring vehicle performance
Optional features were available to enhance comfort and convenience, depending on the model and trim level. These could include:
- Air conditioning for added comfort in hot weather
- Power steering for easier maneuvering
- Power windows and door locks for convenience
- Cloth upholstery for a more upscale feel
- A rear window defroster for improved visibility in cold weather
Interior Space and Comfort
The interior space of 1985 Subaru models was generally considered adequate for their segment. The front seats offered sufficient headroom and legroom for most drivers and passengers, while the rear seats were more suited for children or occasional adult passengers.
The cargo space was also practical, with enough room for groceries or luggage for a short trip.Compared to competitors, 1985 Subaru models offered a similar level of interior space and comfort. While not as spacious as some American models, they provided a functional and comfortable interior for their size and price point.
Standard and Optional Features by Model
| Model | Standard Features | Optional Features ||—|—|—|| Subaru Brat | AM/FM radio, heater, defroster, vinyl upholstery, basic instrumentation | Air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power door locks, cloth upholstery, rear window defroster || Subaru GL | AM/FM radio, heater, defroster, vinyl upholstery, basic instrumentation | Air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power door locks, cloth upholstery, rear window defroster || Subaru DL | AM/FM radio, heater, defroster, vinyl upholstery, basic instrumentation | Air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power door locks, cloth upholstery, rear window defroster || Subaru XT | AM/FM radio, heater, defroster, vinyl upholstery, basic instrumentation, power steering, power windows, power door locks, cloth upholstery, rear window defroster | Air conditioning |
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The 1985 Subaru models, particularly the iconic Subaru Brat and the versatile Subaru GL wagon, had a significant cultural impact, influencing the brand’s reputation and contributing to its lasting legacy. These models played a role in popular culture, advertising, and even the development of subsequent Subaru generations.
Impact on Popular Culture
The 1985 Subaru Brat, with its unique styling and rear-facing jump seats, became a symbol of the era’s youthful spirit and adventurous lifestyle. Its appearance in various films, television shows, and music videos helped solidify its cultural significance. The Subaru GL wagon, on the other hand, gained popularity as a practical and reliable vehicle for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Its versatility and ruggedness appealed to a broad audience, contributing to its widespread adoption and cultural recognition.
Influence on Brand Reputation
The 1985 Subaru models played a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s reputation for reliability, durability, and all-wheel drive capabilities. The Brat’s unique design and the GL’s practicality helped establish Subaru as a brand that offered something different and appealing to a niche market.
Their success paved the way for future Subaru models, which continued to build upon the brand’s reputation for innovative design, engineering, and performance.
Lasting Legacy
The 1985 Subaru models left a lasting legacy, influencing the design and engineering of subsequent Subaru vehicles. The Brat’s unique styling and rear-facing jump seats, while discontinued, inspired future Subaru models to incorporate innovative and unconventional design elements. The GL’s emphasis on practicality and ruggedness paved the way for the development of Subaru’s iconic Outback model, which became synonymous with all-wheel drive capability and outdoor adventure.
Timeline of Key Events
- 1985:The Subaru Brat and the Subaru GL wagon are introduced, marking a significant shift in Subaru’s design philosophy and target audience.
- 1987:The Brat is discontinued due to safety regulations, but its unique design and cultural impact continue to resonate with enthusiasts.
- 1990:The Subaru Legacy is introduced, building upon the success of the GL wagon and establishing Subaru’s reputation for all-wheel drive technology.
- 1995:The Subaru Outback is introduced, combining the practicality of the GL wagon with the ruggedness and off-road capability of a station wagon, becoming a defining model for the brand.
Epilogue
1985 Subaru Automobile represented a turning point for the company, establishing a strong foundation for future success. These vehicles, with their distinctive styling, innovative all-wheel drive system, and commitment to durability, left a lasting impression on the automotive landscape. The 1985 Subaru models not only offered reliable transportation but also introduced a new generation of drivers to the unique appeal of the brand.
Their legacy continues to inspire the design, performance, and innovation of Subaru vehicles today.