Japan vs Japan — 1969 vs 2003
| 360 Young SS | R2 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 36 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 30 lb-ft | 76 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 658 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 37.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 65 mph | 87 mph |
| Weight | 904 lbs | 1,786 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 1,800 mm | 2,360 mm |
| Length | 2,995 mm | 3,395 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $8,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 3/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1969 Subaru 360 Young SS brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged answers with more power, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Subaru has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1969 Subaru 360 Young SS with the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 64 hp compared to 36 hp, a 28-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Subaru 360 uses a Flat-2 2-stroke displacing 356 cc, while the Subaru R2 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Supercharged with 658 cc. The 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged claims a higher top speed at 87 mph compared to 65 mph. The Subaru 360 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 882 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1969 Subaru 360 Young SS commands a significant premium over the 2003 Subaru R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 Subaru 360 Young SS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.