The Subaru BRAT (Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter) is a vehicle originally manufactured by the Japanese company Subaru. The first-generation production spanned from 1978-1987. The BRAT was designed to offer a blend of an all-wheel-drive vehicle and a leisure pickup. The car was specifically designed to meet the need for compact, versatile vehicles that could handle both off-road and urban environments.
An interesting aspect of the Subaru BRAT is its all-wheel-drive system, allowing intuitive driving in various terrains. The vehicle originally featured a 1.6-liter engine, later upgraded to a more powerful 1.8-liter engine. The horsepower ranged from 67 to 94, considered sufficient for the time. Additionally, the vehicle design included extra seats in the rear cargo area, setting it apart from traditional pickups. Notable engineers and designers involved in the BRAT included Yūichi Ōkami.
The 1/64 model of the Subaru BRAT showcased here was manufactured by Hot Wheels, capturing the iconic features of the original vehicle in an impressive manner. The 1/64 scale provides detailed insights into the vehicle design, immersing collectors in the miniature world of diecast models. The model is entirely made of diecast material, leading to a sturdy and durable construction. A striking feature of this model is the blue shiny finish adorned with various racing decals and a license plate.
The depicted wheels may not be conclusively identified at first glance, but they seamlessly complement the sporty overall look of this model vehicle. Additionally, noticeable rally lights on the front bumper emphasize the adventurous character of the Subaru BRAT. Fred, a member on Modelly, has added this model to his collection, serving as a splendid example of the attention to detail that Hot Wheels puts into their models.
To provide context to the era in which the Subaru BRAT originated, it's worth looking at significant events in the year of its inception. The year 1978 saw the release of John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John's hit song "You're the One That I Want," whose catchy tunes still resonate today. Additionally, 1978 marked the publication of the first "Garfield" comic strip, quickly gaining worldwide popularity. Politically, 1978 was the year when the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt were signed. These events help in understanding the context of the vehicle and the time it was designed and produced.
The beauty of the 1/64 model by Hot Wheels lies in the fine details that perfectly capture the essence of the Subaru BRAT. The glittering blue paint is adorned with white and orange stripes, giving the model a racing flair. The front view displays a compact yet rugged appearance with a chromed bumper and four headlights, providing the vehicle with a distinctive look. The roof rack with additional lights underscores its suitability as an off-road vehicle. These small accents demonstrate the precision and attention to detail put into these models, found on collectors' shelves worldwide.