Subaru 360

vs

Subaru BRAT

Japan vs Japan — 1958 vs 1978

Subaru 360 (1958)
Subaru BRAT (1978)
Specifications
360 DeluxeBRAT GL
Horsepower16 hp67 hp
Torque18 lb-ft
Engine Size356 cc1,781 cc
0-60 mph0.0 sec
Top Speed62 mph
¼ Mile0.0 sec
Wheelbase1,800 mm2,460 mm
Length2,990 mm4,290 mm
Units Produced392,000
Value (Excellent)$25,000$25,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1958 Subaru 360 Deluxe brings its unique character to the table, and the 1978 Subaru BRAT GL answers with more power. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Subaru has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1958 Subaru 360 Deluxe with the 1978 Subaru BRAT GL highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1978 Subaru BRAT GL holds a clear advantage in raw power with 67 hp compared to 16 hp, a 51-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 BRAT relies on a Flat-4 with 1,781 cc. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.