by The Subaru Sambar Review & Specs
Introducing the Subaru Sambar, a Kei truck with a rich history! Since its debut in 1961, this beloved Kei truck has evolved through eight unique generations. From classic rear-engine designs to supercharged 4WD and modern safety features, the Sambar has proven itself in cities, farmlands, and beyond. In this article, we will go over each generation.
First-Gen Subaru Sambar 1961-1966
Let’s take a trip back to 1961, a pivotal year at the Tokyo Motor Show, where the Subaru Sambar stole the spotlight. The Sambar stood out with its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive design and a spirited 356cc two-stroke EK31 engine with 18 HP, perfect for city streets and country roads.
Maintenance was simple, thanks to an interior hatch for engine access. Equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission featuring a fun left-pattern reverse gear. Initially a pickup, it soon evolved into a van, catering to small businesses and adventurers.
| Chassis Code | K153 | K153 |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Powertrain | 356 CC EK31 TWO-STROKE I2 | 356 CC EK31 TWO-STROKE I2 |
| Vehicle Type | Truck | Van |
- 356cc 18 hp
- Rear-Engine Layout
- 3-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- Height:: 59.8 Inches
- Length: 117.7 Inches
- Width: 51.2 Inches
- Weight: 871 LB – 1040 LB
Second-Gen Subaru Sambar 1966-1973
In 1966, the Subaru Sambars second generation came out." This Kei truck featured an updated EK33 two-stroke engine, originally from the Subaru 360, which produced 26 horsepower, providing an engaging driving experience with its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, payload of 400 kg, and 4-speed manual transmission.
By 1970, the Sambar had received a stylish facelift with a faux grille, a raised roof for taller drivers, and a padded dashboard inspired by the Subaru R-2, elevating comfort and safety.
| Chassis Code | K71 | K71 |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Powertrain | EK33 - 2-cylinder, air-cooled 356cc engine | EK33 - 2-cylinder, air-cooled 356cc engine |
| Vehicle Type | Truck | Van |
- 356cc engine, 26 hp
- Rear-Engine Layout
- 4-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- Height:: 70 Inches
- Length: 134 Inches
- Width: 58.3 Inches
- Weight: 1,609–2,227 LB
Third-Gen Subaru Sambar 1973-1982
The Subaru Sambar third generation made its debut in 1973. Now powered by a 356cc EK34 water-cooled engine that unleashed 28 horsepower at 5500 rpm—think of a tortoise with a jetpack! Subaru continued to innovate, introducing a four-stroke EK21 engine by 1976, capable of reaching 7500 rpm.
In 1977, the Sambar upgraded to the EK22, followed by the robust 550cc EK23, paving the way for international markets with the "Subaru 600." The design evolved with sliding side doors. Notably, in 1979, an optional sunroof and 4WD capability were added in 1980.
| Chassis Code | K71 | K81 | K75 | K76 | K85 | K77/K87 |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | 4WD |
| Powertrain | 356 cc EK34, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, two-stroke | 490 cc EK22, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (introduced in 1976) | 490 cc EK22, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (introduced in 1976) | 490 cc EK22, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (introduced in 1976) | 490 cc EK22, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (introduced in 1976) | 550 cc EK23, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (introduced in 1977) |
| Vehicle Type | Truck | Van | Truck | Panel Van | Van | Truck/Van |
- Rear-Engine Layout
- RWD & 4WD
- 4-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- Height: 72.8 Inches
- Length: 125.8 Inches
- Width: 55.9 Inches
Forth-Gen Subaru Sambar 1982-1990
May 9, 1982, was the launch of the fourth-generation Subaru Sambar, which had an option for a high roof. The Sambar was surprisingly capable on Japan's roads, powered by a lively 544cc, 2-cylinder engine producing 28 horsepower.
With suspension upgrades, including four-wheel independent struts, larger wheels, and dual-range 4WD. Safety by standardizing retractable seatbelts in 1986 and introducing front disc brakes in 1987. By 1989, a higher-tier six-valve engine with 34 horsepower.
| Chassis Code | KT1 | KT2 | KT6 | KR1 | KR2 | KR6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Powertrain | EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke | EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke | EK23 (later models could have the 6-valve version) 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke | EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke | EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke | EK23 (later models could have the 6-valve version) 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
| Vehicle Type | Truck | Truck | Truck | Van | Van | Van |
- Rear-Engine Layout
- Six-Valve Upgrade 34 hp
- RWD & Dual-Range 4WD
- 4-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- Height: 74.8 Inches
- Length: 125.8 Inches
- Width: 54.9 Inches
Fifth-Gen Subaru Sambar 1990-1999
In 1990, Subaru evolved its engine regulations, increasing the engine size to 660cc. The fifth-generation Sambar stood out with its four-cylinder EN07 engine delivering 40 to 55 horsepower. The supercharged model. An innovative ECVT transmission with full-time 4WD appealed to drivers, though it was replaced by a 3-speed automatic by 1995 due to feedback. However, the supercharged engine had oil consumption and overheating.
The Sambar's height of 7.5 inches made it one of the tallest Kei trucks, though lifting it was challenging. In 1999, the sixth-generation Sambar size 1,480 mm wide. This version included the Sambar Dias with a futuristic design and a 3-speed automatic transmission, appealing for its unique aesthetic despite mixed reception.
| Chassis Code | KS3 | KS4 | KV3 | KV4 |
| Drivetrain | RWD | 4WD | RWD | 4WD |
| Powertrain | EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option | EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option | EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option | EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option |
| Vehicle Type | Truck | Truck | Van | Van |
- Rear-Engine Layout
- NA 40-55 HP
- Supercharged Option Available
- Push-Button 4WD
- ECVT Transmission Replaced in 1995
- 5-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- weight: 1,499–2,182.6 lb
- Height: 74.8 Inches
- Length: 125.8 Inches
- Width: 54.9 Inches
Sixth-Gen Subaru Sambar 1999-2014
In 1999, Subaru launched the sixth generation. This change improved aesthetics, safety features, and interior space. A 3-speed automatic transmission, while the 4WD version included a supercharged option, delivering 58 horsepower for an engaging driving experience. Fuel injection for better MPG and dual front airbags for added safety.
By 2008, the Sambar evolved into "The Luxury Sambar," offering power sliding doors and leather seating in higher trims. The 2009 Subaru Dias Wagon debuted, leading to the seventh-generation Sambar truck in 2012. With the engine between the front seats for improved efficiency.
| Chassis Code | TT1 | TT2 | TV1 | TV2 | TW1 | TW2 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD | 2WD | 4WD | 2WD | 4WD |
| Powertrain | EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) | EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) | EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) | EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) | EN07F with EMPi / EN07Y supercharger EMPi / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) | EN07F with EMPi / EN07Y supercharger EMPi / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) |
| Vehicle Type | Truck | Truck | Van | Van | Van | Van |
- Rear-Engine Layout
- NA 40-55 HP
- Supercharged Available 58 HP
- Push-Button 4WD
- ECVT Transmission 1995
- 5-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- weight: 1,499–2,182.6 lb
- Height: 74.8 Inches
- Length: 125.8 Inches
- Width: 54.9 Inches
Seventh-Gen Subaru Sambar 2014-2024
The Seventh-Gen Subaru Sambar, with a 660cc engine, balances performance and MPGl. Top speeds reach around 80 to 90 km/h handling 350 to 500 kg. The van-like version seats up to four passengers. Its compact, boxy design is both practical and stylish.
