Subaru 1000
The pioneer of the Subaru boxer engine and front-wheel-drive layout.
- Power
- 55 bhp
- Top speed
- 84 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$18k
About the Subaru 1000
Launched in 1966, the Subaru 1000 was a revolutionary departure from the brand's rear-engined kei car roots. It introduced the water-cooled horizontally opposed 'boxer' engine and front-wheel-drive configuration that would become Subaru's engineering hallmarks for decades. Designed by Shinroku Momose, it featured advanced solutions like inboard drum brakes to reduce unsprung weight and a dual-radiator cooling system. Its flat-four engine allowed for a low centre of gravity and a spacious, flat-floored cabin, setting a new standard for Japanese compact cars of the era.
Subaru 1000 specs
The Subaru 1000 produces 55 bhp (41 kW) and 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 84 mph (135 km/h).
| Make | Subaru |
|---|---|
| Model | 1000 |
| Trim | 1.0 |
| Years | 1966–1969 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 4,000 built |
| Engine | 1.0-litre water-cooled flat-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 977 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 55 bhp (41 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| Top speed | 84 mph (135 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 670 kg (1,477 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 82 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Subaru 1000 worth?
A typical Subaru 1000 is estimated to be worth $7,000 – $18,000 (about £5,200 – £13,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Subaru 1000 rarity in CarSpot
The Subaru 1000 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 49 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Subaru 1000 fun facts
- The Subaru 1000 was the first mass-produced Japanese car to successfully implement a front-wheel-drive layout with a horizontally opposed engine.
- To improve front-wheel traction, engineers placed the spare tyre and jack inside the engine bay, ensuring 60% of the weight sat over the driving wheels.
- It used a unique 'Double Offset Joint' (DOJ) constant velocity joint, which significantly reduced the steering vibrations common in early front-wheel-drive cars.