The 1986 Subaru Brat, a quirky and unconventional vehicle, carved its own niche in the automotive landscape of the 1980s. This compact pickup truck, with its distinctive styling and surprising versatility, captured the hearts of many seeking a vehicle that could handle both work and play.
The Brat’s unusual “utility” seating configuration, which allowed passengers to ride in the open bed, became its signature feature, adding a touch of adventure to its everyday practicality. While the Brat’s production run was relatively short, its unique design and spirited performance left a lasting impression on automotive history, making it a sought-after classic today.
Beyond its unique styling, the 1986 Subaru Brat offered a blend of practicality and performance that appealed to a diverse range of drivers. Its compact size and nimble handling made it ideal for navigating city streets, while its rugged construction and available all-wheel drive system provided confidence on rough terrain.
Under the hood, a peppy four-cylinder engine delivered ample power for everyday driving and light hauling, further enhancing its appeal.
Introduction
The 1986 Subaru Brat, short for “Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter,” was a unique and quirky vehicle that carved a niche for itself in the automotive landscape. It was a compact pickup truck with a distinct design that set it apart from its competitors.
The Brat’s significance lies in its role as one of Subaru’s earliest attempts to break into the American market. Although not a commercial success, the Brat holds a special place in automotive history for its unconventional design and its influence on Subaru’s future product development.
The Brat’s Unique Design and Features
The Brat’s most striking feature was its rear passenger compartment. Unlike traditional pickup trucks, the Brat featured two small seats behind the cab, resembling a miniature station wagon. These seats were designed to accommodate children or smaller adults, and they were removable to increase cargo space.
This unique design element contributed to the Brat’s reputation as a versatile and practical vehicle. The Brat was also known for its distinctive styling. It featured a boxy, utilitarian design with a high-mounted rear window. The front end featured a simple grille and round headlights, while the rear featured a tailgate that swung open to reveal the cargo bed.Beyond its unique design, the Brat offered several practical features.
It was equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, offering adequate power for its size. The Brat also featured a four-wheel-drive system, which provided superior traction on rough terrain. The vehicle’s suspension was designed for off-road capability, with independent front suspension and a solid rear axle.
The 1986 Subaru Brat, with its unique “truck” bed, was a quirky and practical vehicle for its time. While the Brat was discontinued in 1987, Subaru continued to innovate in the small car segment, culminating in the release of the 2007 Subaru Impreza , a car that offered both performance and practicality.
This transition from the Brat’s unique design to the Impreza’s more conventional styling reflects the evolution of Subaru’s approach to the market, showcasing their commitment to building cars that are both functional and fun to drive.
The Brat’s unique combination of features made it a popular choice for those seeking a compact, versatile, and affordable vehicle.
Design and Features: 1986 Subaru Brat
The Subaru Brat, introduced in 1978, was a unique and quirky vehicle that blended the practicality of a pickup truck with the comfort of a passenger car. It became popular for its versatility and affordability, particularly among young buyers and those seeking a vehicle for recreational activities.
Exterior Design
The Brat’s exterior design was characterized by its boxy, utilitarian shape, inspired by the popular pickup trucks of the time. It featured a distinctive “cab-over” design, with the driver’s cabin situated directly above the engine. The front end featured a simple grille with a horizontal chrome bar and rectangular headlights.
The Brat’s side profile showcased a large cargo bed, with a pair of fold-down seats mounted behind the cab, giving it a unique and practical “utility” seating configuration. The rear end was similarly simple, with a tailgate that opened down and featured a single taillight assembly on each side.
Interior Cabin, 1986 Subaru Brat
The Brat’s interior was basic but functional. The cabin featured vinyl seats, a simple dashboard with a minimal instrument cluster, and a standard three-spoke steering wheel. The interior was designed for practicality, with durable materials and ample storage space. The Brat’s “utility” seating configuration, with two fold-down seats in the cargo bed, provided additional seating capacity for passengers, further enhancing its versatility.
Utility Seating Configuration
The Brat’s most distinctive feature was its “utility” seating configuration. The cargo bed was equipped with two fold-down seats, designed to be used for passengers or to transport cargo. This unique configuration made the Brat a versatile vehicle, suitable for both work and leisure.
Engine and Drivetrain
The Brat was powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 65 horsepower. This engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission or an optional three-speed automatic transmission. The Brat featured a rear-wheel drive system, offering decent traction on most surfaces.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Brat, despite its unconventional design, offered a surprisingly capable driving experience, particularly for its time. It wasn’t designed to be a speed demon, but it provided a blend of practicality, off-road capability, and a unique driving character.
Performance Metrics
The Brat’s performance was largely dictated by its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which generated 65 horsepower. This power output was modest, but it was sufficient for everyday driving.
- Acceleration:The Brat’s acceleration was not particularly impressive, taking around 14 seconds to reach 60 mph. This was slower than many of its contemporaries, especially those with larger engines.
- Top Speed:The Brat’s top speed was around 90 mph, which was adequate for highway driving but limited its capabilities for high-speed driving.
- Fuel Efficiency:The Brat’s fuel efficiency was a strong point, with an estimated 25 mpg in combined city and highway driving. This was considered good for its time, especially considering its relatively small engine.
Performance Comparison
Comparing the Brat’s performance to other vehicles of its time, it was generally outpaced by its rivals in terms of acceleration and top speed. Vehicles like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic offered quicker acceleration and higher top speeds. However, the Brat’s fuel efficiency was comparable to, and even better than, some of its competitors.
Handling Characteristics
The Brat’s handling was a unique aspect of its design. It offered a surprisingly stable ride for a vehicle with a high center of gravity. Its independent front suspension and solid rear axle provided a comfortable ride on paved roads and a decent amount of control off-road.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Brat’s high ground clearance and rear-wheel drive provided some off-road capability. While it wasn’t designed for serious off-roading, it could handle light trails and unpaved roads with ease. Its small size and maneuverability made it particularly useful for navigating tight spaces and challenging terrain.
The 1986 Subaru Brat, with its unique styling and rear-facing jump seats, was a quirky yet popular choice in its day. While the Brat was discontinued in 1987, Subaru continued to offer small, practical vehicles like the 1998 Subaru Sambar , a kei car that was popular in Japan.
Despite its unique features, the Brat’s legacy continues to resonate with car enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate the brand’s commitment to innovative and practical vehicles.
Reliability and Durability
The Subaru Brat, known for its unique design and practicality, also boasts a reputation for reliability and durability. Built on a robust platform and utilizing proven mechanical components, the Brat was designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use and even off-road adventures.
Common Maintenance Issues and Potential Problems
While the Brat is generally known for its ruggedness, like any vehicle, it does have some common maintenance issues and potential problems. It is important to be aware of these to ensure your Brat remains in top condition.
- Engine:The EA-81 engine, known for its simplicity and durability, can sometimes suffer from head gasket issues, especially in older models. Regular maintenance, including coolant flushes and timely repairs, can help prevent this problem.
- Transmission:The 4-speed manual transmission is generally reliable, but the 3-speed automatic can experience issues with shifting and clutch wear. Regular fluid changes and careful driving habits can help extend the life of the transmission.
- Rust:Like many vehicles from the 1980s, the Brat is susceptible to rust, particularly in areas prone to salt and moisture. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can help prevent rust from spreading and compromising the vehicle’s structural integrity.
- Electrical System:Older Brat models may experience electrical issues, such as faulty wiring, failing switches, or problems with the alternator. These issues can be addressed through routine inspections and timely repairs.
Longevity and Ability to Withstand Wear and Tear
The Brat’s reputation for reliability and durability is evident in its ability to withstand the test of time. Many Brat models remain on the road today, even after decades of use. Their simple design, robust construction, and readily available parts contribute to their longevity.
The Brat’s ability to handle rough terrain and challenging conditions further demonstrates its durability.
“The Brat is a true survivor. It’s built like a tank and can handle anything you throw at it.”
A Brat owner with over 20 years of experience.
While the Brat may not be as luxurious or technologically advanced as modern vehicles, its reliability and durability make it a compelling choice for those seeking a rugged and dependable vehicle.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The Subaru Brat, despite its short production run, left a lasting mark on automotive culture, becoming an icon of the 1980s and a symbol of the era’s unique blend of practicality and quirkiness. Its unique design, utility, and affordability made it a popular choice for a wide range of buyers, from farmers and ranchers to young families and weekend adventurers.
Popularity and Cultural Significance
The Brat’s popularity stemmed from its versatility and affordability. It offered a unique blend of truck-like capability with the comfort and fuel efficiency of a passenger car. Its open bed, removable rear seats, and relatively low price made it a practical choice for hauling cargo, transporting passengers, and even enjoying off-road adventures.
The Brat’s quirky styling and unique features also made it a popular choice among young buyers looking for a fun and affordable vehicle. Its low-slung design, wide stance, and distinctive front grille made it instantly recognizable on the road.
Notable Appearances in Media and Popular Culture
The Subaru Brat’s unique design and popularity made it a frequent fixture in popular culture, appearing in various forms of media. The Brat was featured in numerous television shows, movies, and video games, often representing the adventurous and carefree spirit of the 1980s.
- In the 1985 film “Back to the Future,” a modified Subaru Brat can be seen in the background of a scene set in 1955.
- The Brat also made an appearance in the popular 1980s television show “The A-Team,” where it was used by the team for transporting equipment and escaping from dangerous situations.
- In the 1980s video game “Grand Theft Auto,” a Subaru Brat-like vehicle called the “Blista Compact” is available for players to drive.
Influence on Subsequent Subaru Models
The Subaru Brat’s success paved the way for the introduction of other small, utility-focused vehicles from the Japanese automaker. The Brat’s design elements and practicality influenced the development of subsequent Subaru models, such as the Subaru Justy and the Subaru Impreza.
The 1986 Subaru Brat was a unique offering, with its small pickup truck design and rear-facing jump seats. While the Brat was known for its quirky styling, it shared many mechanical components with the more traditional 1986 Subaru Leone , including the same 1.6-liter engine and all-wheel drive system.
The Brat’s ruggedness and practicality made it a popular choice for those seeking a compact and capable vehicle.
The Brat’s success also helped to solidify Subaru’s reputation for building reliable and capable vehicles, which continues to this day.
Collecting and Restoration
The 1986 Subaru Brat, a unique and quirky vehicle, has become a sought-after collectible among automotive enthusiasts. Its distinctive design, practicality, and nostalgic appeal have fueled a growing market for restored and original Brat models.
Market Value
The market value of a 1986 Subaru Brat varies significantly depending on its condition, mileage, and modifications.
- Original, low-mileage Brat models in excellent condition can fetch prices ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Restored Brat models, depending on the quality of the restoration, can command prices similar to or even exceeding original models.
- Modified Brat models, particularly those with performance upgrades, may appeal to a niche market and can fetch prices depending on the extent and quality of the modifications.
It’s essential to research the current market trends and consult with reputable Brat enthusiasts or collectors to determine the fair market value of a specific Brat.
Restoration Process
Restoring a 1986 Subaru Brat to its original condition involves a meticulous and time-consuming process.
- Assessment:Begin by thoroughly inspecting the Brat for any rust, damage, or missing parts. A comprehensive assessment helps determine the scope of the restoration project.
- Disassembly:Disassemble the Brat, carefully removing and labeling all components. This allows for individual restoration of each part.
- Bodywork:Address any rust or damage to the body by sanding, priming, and repainting. If necessary, replace damaged panels with original or aftermarket parts.
- Mechanical Restoration:Rebuild or replace worn-out engine components, transmission, brakes, suspension, and other mechanical systems.
- Interior Restoration:Clean, repair, or replace the interior upholstery, dashboard, and other interior components to match the original condition.
- Reassembly:Carefully reassemble the Brat, ensuring all components are properly installed and functioning correctly.
Resources and Communities
For Brat enthusiasts seeking information, parts, or connections, several resources and communities are available:
- Subaru Brat Clubs:Numerous online forums and clubs dedicated to Subaru Brat enthusiasts provide a platform for sharing knowledge, finding parts, and connecting with other owners.
- Online Marketplaces:Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and specialized automotive forums offer a wide selection of Brat parts, restoration supplies, and vehicles for sale.
- Specialty Shops:Several automotive shops specialize in Subaru parts and restoration, offering expertise and resources specific to the Brat.
Ultimate Conclusion
The 1986 Subaru Brat, with its distinctive design and surprising versatility, stands as a testament to Subaru’s commitment to innovation and practicality. Though its production run was brief, the Brat left a lasting impact on automotive culture, becoming a sought-after classic for its unique features and spirited performance.
For those seeking a vehicle that blends utility and style, the Brat remains a compelling choice, offering a unique driving experience and a touch of nostalgia. Whether cruising city streets or venturing off-road, the 1986 Subaru Brat continues to capture the imagination of automotive enthusiasts, reminding us that sometimes, the most unexpected vehicles can leave the most lasting impressions.