1997 Subaru Sambar Dias Classic
Sambar Dias Classic:
The first three paragraphs are general information. Thereafter information becomes very technical and specific.
The Subaru Sambar is a cabover truck (not shown) and microvan (example above) manufactured and marketed by Subaru as a motor vehicle compliant with the country's Keitora (軽トラ) or Kei [ /kē/ ] vehicle tax class. The Sambar name first saw use in 1961, and continues to be applied in 2024. Our Sambar is a Dias Classic, which is configured thus: Rear engine, four seat cargo van with right hand drive, 5 speed manual transmission, and A/C.
This example was imported from Japan through legal channels under the regulation of both the EPA and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. It is registered with- and tagged, by the State of Alabama. Alabama law allows for operation on primary, secondary streets, as well as state and US highways throughout the state. The laws do not permit interstate use, and the license plate issued by the state specifies as such.
This vehicle's driving experience is the most non-traditional of our offerings. As was common with imported Vans (e.g. Toyota; Volkswagen) sold in the US during the 1980's, the driver position is above the front axle. Aside from a handful of 1980's / 90's vans, very few US Citizens will have had the opportunity to experience sitting so forward in an automobile. Forward visibility is better than most, and the sensations the driver experiences when turning are unique. The Sambar requires proficiency in operating a 5 speed manual transmission and clutch, and takes a few minutes to become accustomed to shifting with the left hand. Expect fuel economy of around 32-34 MPG, and expect to take your time in traffic. As was required by regulation in Japan, this vehicle's engine makes a very modest amount of power.
Technical:
This van is quipped with Subaru's EN07C engine, and the rear-mount 658 cc four cylinder is carbureted. It produces a modest 34 horsepower at 6,500 RPM. The power plant is happy and smooth idling at 1,100 RPM, and revs to about 7,000 RPM. There is no fuel or ignition shut-off at redline, so the operator must manage the maximum engine speed. Ignition is provided by an old-style distributor system, and powered by a single coil.
Brakes are disk/drum front to rear, and power assisted (vacuum). While the radiator providing cooling to the rear-mounted engine is in the front of the vehicle, the coolant filler cap is actually just inside the rear cargo door. The A/C evaporator is located mid-ship, and mounted horizontally. An electric fan provides air movement, as does an under vehicle rubber skirt (when the vehicle is under way). A spare tire is mounted on the driver side of the vehicle, underneath and approximately mid-ship of the vehicle. There are sliding doors on both sides of the van which provide access to the rear seats, and both doors include a manual-crank window.
Steering is manual, but requires minimal effort given the low weight of the vehicle. It is reliant on a drag link design rather than a rack and pinion. This arrangement is likely chosen to avoid the packaging difficulties that would be presented by the rack and pinion design. The 12v battery is located underneath the passenger front seat. Dimensions and weight:
Wheelbase: 74.2 inches (1,885 mm)
Length: 129.7 inches (3,295 mm)
Width: 54.9 inches (1,395 mm)
Height: 74.6 inches (1,895 mm)
Curb weight: 1,582 Lbs. (718 Kg)
