Subaru Subaru Brat (Bi Drive Recreational All Terrain Transporter) | History, Reliability & Buying Guide

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The Subaru BRAT: A Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transporter Guide

The Subaru BRAT (Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter) is a light-duty, four-wheel-drive coupé utility vehicle manufactured from 1978 to 1994. While marketed as a truck in North America to avoid import tariffs on light trucks, it shares a lineage with Subaru's compact car platforms and is more accurately classified as a compact coupe utility or a "ute." It's celebrated for its unique design, robust 4WD system, and enduring cult following.

Generations

First Generation (1978-1981)

Years: 1978-1981

Key Features: Introduced the iconic bed-mounted jump seats. Powered by a 1.6L EA71 flat-four engine (later a 1.8L EA81). Four-speed manual transmission with optional dual-range 4WD. Square headlights.

Notable Changes: Introduction of the EA81 engine in later years of this generation providing a small boost in power.

Second Generation (1982-1994)

Years: 1982-1994

Key Features: More angular styling. Turbocharged version of the 1.8L EA81 engine became available in some markets (primarily North America). Five-speed manual transmission and optional three-speed automatic transmission. Revised dashboard and interior.

Notable Changes: Facelift in the mid-1980s introduced a redesigned grille and minor cosmetic tweaks. The availability of the turbo engine significantly improved performance. Jump seats remained a defining characteristic. Production shifted from Japan to Taiwan for non-US markets in 1987, which impacts build quality perception to some extent. US sales stopped in 1987, but production continued for other markets.

Reliability & Common Issues

While generally reliable for their age, BRATs do have some common issues potential buyers should be aware of:

Engine Issues

Head Gaskets: The EA-series engines (EA71 and EA81) are known for head gasket issues, particularly overheating which leads to failure. Look for signs of coolant leaks, milky oil, or excessive white smoke from the exhaust. A compression test is essential.

Carburetor Problems (Non-Turbo Models): The carburetors on the non-turbo models can be finicky, leading to poor fuel economy, rough idling, and difficulty starting. Rebuilds or replacements are common.

Turbocharger Issues (Turbo Models): Turbo models, while offering better performance, are prone to turbocharger wear and failure. Check for excessive oil consumption, whining noises, or a lack of boost. Rebuilding a turbo is often expensive.

Oil Leaks: These engines are notorious for oil leaks from various seals and gaskets. Be prepared to address these over time.

Drivetrain Issues

4WD System: The dual-range 4WD system is generally robust but can suffer from wear in the transfer case. Ensure the 4WD engages and disengages smoothly. Listen for unusual noises when engaged. Worn CV joints are also common.

Transmission Issues: Check for smooth shifting and any signs of slipping or grinding gears, particularly in the manual transmissions. Automatic transmissions can also experience issues, especially if not properly maintained.

Rust: Rust is a significant enemy, especially in areas with road salt. Pay close attention to the floorboards, rocker panels, bed, and suspension components. Extensive rust repair can be costly.

Electrical Issues

Wiring: Age-related deterioration of the wiring harness is common. Check for brittle or cracked wires, especially around the engine bay and under the dashboard.

Switches and Relays: Switches and relays can become corroded or fail over time, leading to intermittent electrical problems.

Specific to the BRAT: Jump Seats

Rust and Condition: The jump seats in the bed are exposed to the elements and often show signs of rust and wear. Check the condition of the seats themselves, as well as the mounting hardware. Replacement seats can be difficult to find.

Driving Experience

Driving a BRAT is a unique experience, offering a blend of practicality and fun, albeit with some compromises:

Pros:

Unique Style: The BRAT's quirky design is undeniably appealing and a guaranteed head-turner.

Off-Road Capability: The 4WD system provides excellent traction in off-road conditions, making it surprisingly capable on trails.

Practicality: The bed provides a useful space for hauling cargo, albeit a small one.

Simplicity: The mechanical nature of these vehicles makes them relatively easy to work on for those with some mechanical aptitude.

Cons:

Limited Power: The engine options, particularly the non-turbo versions, offer limited power, making acceleration and highway driving less than thrilling.

Ride Quality: The ride can be bumpy and somewhat harsh, especially on rough roads.

Safety: These vehicles lack modern safety features and are small, making them vulnerable in accidents.

Rust Susceptibility: As mentioned above, rust is a major concern and can significantly impact structural integrity.

Jump Seats: Not DOT approved for passenger use.

Buying Advice

Finding a good BRAT requires patience and careful inspection. Here's what to look for:

Years to Look For:

1982-1987 (US Market): These are generally considered the most desirable due to the availability of the turbo engine and improved features. However, turbo models can be more expensive to maintain. Try to find a well-maintained example.

Pre-1987 (Taiwanese Market): Finding one in decent condition might be tough.

Years to Potentially Avoid (or Approach with Caution):

Later Taiwanese production (1987-1994): While still BRATs, the build quality isn't as highly regarded, with owners occasionally reporting issues with trim and materials.

What to Look For:

Rust-Free Examples: Prioritize finding a BRAT with minimal rust. Thoroughly inspect the undercarriage, floorboards, rocker panels, and bed.

Complete and Original: A BRAT with all its original parts, especially the jump seats, will be more valuable.

Well-Maintained Mechanicals: Look for evidence of regular maintenance, such as service records. A compression test is highly recommended.

Clear Title: Ensure the vehicle has a clear title and that the VIN matches the vehicle.

Check the Jump Seats: Ensure they're still present and in good enough condition to be recovered and used.

What to Avoid:

Extensive Rust: Walk away from BRATs with significant rust damage, as repairs can be very costly.

Heavily Modified Vehicles: Unless you know what you're doing, avoid vehicles with significant modifications, as they may have been improperly done.

Vehicles with Unexplained Mechanical Issues: Be wary of vehicles with serious mechanical problems that the seller cannot explain or is unwilling to address.

Ultimately, buying a Subaru BRAT is about embracing its unique character and accepting its quirks. With careful research and a thorough inspection, you can find a BRAT that will provide years of enjoyment.
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