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Subaru Brat facts for kids

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Subaru BRAT
1989 Subaru Brumby utility (2010-05-19) 02.jpg
Overview
Manufacturer Subaru
Also called Subaru 284
Subaru Brumby
Subaru Shifter
Subaru MV
Subaru Targa
Assembly Ōta, Gunma, Japan
Pretoria, South Africa
Waitara, New Zealand (until 1987)
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door coupe utility
Layout F4
Related Subaru Leone
Powertrain
Engine 1.6 L EA-71 H4
1.8 L EA-81 H4
Transmission 4-speed manual
3-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,456 mm (96.7 in)
Length 4,424 mm (174.2 in)
Width 1,620 mm (63.8 in)
Height 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Weight 1,000 kg (2,204.6 lb)
Chronology
Successor Subaru Baja

The Subaru BRAT was a cool and unique pickup truck made by the Japanese company Subaru. It was built from 1978 until 1994. The name BRAT stands for "Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter." This means it was designed for both fun and tough adventures.

The BRAT was special because it had all-wheel drive. This allowed it to send power to all four wheels. This feature made it great for driving on different surfaces. It could handle dirt roads, snow, or even muddy paths.

What Does BRAT Mean?

The full name, "Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter," might sound long. But it simply means a vehicle that can drive on all kinds of land. It was made for fun activities and off-road adventures. The "Bi-drive" part refers to its ability to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.

A Pickup Truck with a Twist

The Subaru BRAT looked like a small pickup truck. It had an open bed in the back for carrying things. But it also had a unique feature: two rear-facing seats in the truck bed! These seats were added so the BRAT could be imported into the United States without a special tax.

Imagine riding in the back, facing backwards, as you went on an adventure! These seats were a big part of what made the BRAT so memorable.

Subaru Brat, rear left (Arizona)
Subaru Brat rear jumpseats

Different Names Around the World

The Subaru BRAT was known by different names in various countries.

  • In the United Kingdom, it was called the 284.
  • In Australia, people knew it as the Brumby.
  • In other places, it was called the Shifter, MV, or Targa.

No matter the name, it was the same fun and tough Subaru vehicle. It was built in places like Ōta, Japan, Pretoria, South Africa, and Waitara, New Zealand.

1978 Subaru Brumby Pickup
1978 Subaru Brumby (Australia)

Why Was the BRAT Made?

Subaru created the BRAT to meet a demand for small, fuel-efficient pickup trucks. It was also designed to be a fun vehicle for people who enjoyed outdoor activities. Its all-wheel drive made it perfect for exploring. It was a popular choice for people who needed a practical truck but also wanted something unique.

The BRAT's Engine and Power

The BRAT had a special type of engine called a "flat-4" engine. This means its four cylinders were laid flat, which helped lower the car's center of gravity. This design made the BRAT stable and fun to drive. It came with either a 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter engine. These engines gave it enough power for both daily driving and off-road fun.

It also had different transmission options. You could get it with a 4-speed manual transmission, where you shift gears yourself. Or, you could choose a 3-speed automatic transmission, which shifts gears for you.

The BRAT's Successor

After the BRAT stopped being made in 1994, Subaru later introduced a new vehicle that was similar. This car was called the Subaru Baja. The Baja was also a pickup truck with a car-like feel, carrying on the spirit of the BRAT.

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