#8 • 1983 Subaru BRAT - June 2023 Vehicle Auction

Hey Subie lovers, check this out! 🙌🚘 Get ready to dive into a summer project that will make Subaru history come alive! This Subaru BRAT, also known as the Brumby or Shifter, is a rare gem waiting to shine again. With rear-facing jump seats, a worn set of summer tires, and a nostalgic touch of rust, it's a blank canvas for your creative genius. Join the ranks of Subie enthusiasts and turn this beauty into an envy-inducing masterpiece! 🎨✨

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The Subaru BRAT, short for "Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter," was a popular light-duty, four-wheel drive coupé utility vehicle based on the Subaru Leone. Introduced in 1977 and sold until 1994, the BRAT was developed from the company's four-wheel drive station wagon model. It followed the concept of coupe utilities like the Chevrolet El Camino and the Ford Ranchero. Depending on the market, it was also known as the Brumby, MV Pickup, or Shifter.

The BRAT was initially created in response to the demand for small trucks in North America, allowing Subaru to compete with other manufacturers such as Toyota, Nissan, and Mazda. Unlike trucks from other brands, all BRATs came with four-wheel drive, utilizing the existing Leone station wagon platform. While the Leone underwent a redesign in 1979, the BRAT continued with its original Gen I body until 1982.

One unique aspect of the BRAT was its rear jump seats. Although it could be considered a truck, Subaru incorporated plastic seats in the cargo bed, classifying it as a passenger car. This clever move allowed Subaru to circumvent the higher import tariffs imposed on light trucks, reducing the costs of importing BRATs to North America. North American and Canadian models even featured carpeting along with the rear-facing jump seats. However, these seats were discontinued after the 1986 model year.

The Subaru BRAT holds a special place in automotive history, offering a combination of utility, off-road capability, and distinctive design. Its legacy continues to captivate Subie enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.