
TransportationMore in Transportation→
Why the Subaru 360, Subaru's First US Car, Failed Miserably
Key Takeaways
- The 1968 Subaru 360 was Subaru's first car sold in the US, a tiny kei car with a 360cc two-stroke engine.
- Consumer Reports gave it a scathing review, citing poor acceleration (0-50 mph in 37.5 seconds) and dangerous handling.
- The car had a curb weight of 993 pounds and just 16 horsepower, with a power-to-weight ratio far worse than contemporary bikes.
- Compared to the VW Beetle, the 360 was slower and more unstable; CR concluded an emergency swerve would likely cause an accident.
DE
DT Editorial Team··via jalopnik.com