1996 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 45.2 mpg US - 54.3 mpg UK - 5.2 L/100km, a weight of 1940 lbs (880 kg), the Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S has a water cooling 4 cylinder SOHC engine, a Regular gasoline engine EN07. This engine EN07 produces a maximum power of 46.6 PS (46 bhp - 34.3 kW) at 6400 rpm and a maximum torque of 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft - 5.6 kg.m) at 4800 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the rear wheel drive (RR) with a ECVT gearbox. For stopping power, the Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S has semitrailing arm type rear suspension and McPherson strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 23, 2024

Overview of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S

The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is a compact minivan that gained popularity for its efficient design and practicality. This two-year production model, spanning from September 1996 to October 1997, showcases several notable features that make it an interesting option for those seeking a small and versatile vehicle.

Drive and Body Type: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive (RR) configuration, providing stability and control on various road conditions. It's classified as a minivan with two rows of seats, offering seating for up to four passengers.

Transmission: Power is transmitted through an ECVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission) gearbox, which allows for smooth acceleration and seamless gear shifting.

Engine: Under the hood, you'll find a 658cc (or 0.658 liters) engine with the engine code EN07. This 4-cylinder SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) engine is water-cooled and delivers a maximum power output of 46.6 horsepower (PS) at 6400 RPM. The engine also provides a maximum torque of 54.9 Nm at 4800 RPM. It operates on regular gasoline and offers good fuel efficiency.

Size and Dimensions: The Sambar 660 Dias-S boasts compact dimensions, with an exterior length of 329.5 cm, width of 139.5 cm, and height of 189 cm. It rides on a wheelbase of 188.5 cm and maintains a ground clearance of 17.5 cm. Despite its small size, it has a weight of 880 kg.

Seating and Doors: This minivan comfortably accommodates four passengers with its four seats. It features five doors, including the rear hatch, which provides convenient access to the cargo area.

Turning Circle: The vehicle has an impressive minimum turning circle of 3.9 meters, making it agile and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Fuel Tank Capacity: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is equipped with a fuel tank capable of holding up to 10.5 US gallons (or 8.7 UK gallons, approximately 40 liters) of fuel, ensuring decent driving range.

The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is a practical and compact minivan that offers efficient performance and maneuverability. Its small size and rear-wheel-drive configuration make it suitable for urban commuting and small cargo transport needs.

Engine Specifications

The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is powered by an engine that combines compactness and efficiency to deliver a reliable driving experience. Let's delve into the engine specifications of this minivan:

Engine Code: The heart of the Sambar 660 Dias-S is the EN07 engine. This engine code identifies it as part of Subaru's EN series.

Displacement: With a displacement of 658cc (0.658 liters), the Sambar's engine falls within the kei car category, known for its small, yet practical, powerplants.

Cylinder Configuration: The engine features a 4-cylinder layout, contributing to its balance and smooth operation.

Valvetrain: It is equipped with a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) valvetrain, which simplifies the engine's design and maintenance.

Cooling System: The engine is water-cooled, ensuring that it operates within the optimal temperature range, contributing to longevity and performance.

Fuel Type: The Sambar 660 Dias-S runs on regular gasoline, which is readily available and cost-effective.

Maximum Power: This engine generates a maximum power output of 46.6 PS (46 horsepower) at 6400 RPM. It provides adequate power for urban driving and light cargo transport.

Maximum Torque: Torque, the twisting force that drives the vehicle, peaks at 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb-ft) at 4800 RPM. This torque figure contributes to the vehicle's ability to handle varying driving conditions.

Fuel Efficiency: The engine's design focuses on fuel efficiency. In a 60 km/h mode, it achieves a commendable fuel consumption rating of 45.2 mpg US (54.3 mpg UK or 5.2 L/100km), making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting.

Performance: While not designed for high-speed performance, this engine is well-suited to its intended purpose as a compact minivan. It provides reliable and efficient power for navigating city streets and light-duty tasks.

In summary, the engine specifications of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S emphasize efficiency, reliability, and suitability for urban driving. Its compact size and power characteristics make it a practical choice for those seeking a versatile and economical vehicle.

Dimensions and Sizes

The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is a compact minivan, and its dimensions and sizes are tailored to maximize practicality within a small footprint. Here's an overview of its dimensions:

Exterior Length: The Sambar 660 Dias-S measures approximately 329.5 cm (129.72 inches) in length. This compact size allows for easy maneuvering in urban environments and tight parking spaces.

Exterior Width: With a width of about 139.5 cm (54.92 inches), the Sambar is designed to navigate narrow streets and congested traffic with ease.

Exterior Height: Standing at approximately 189 cm (74.4 inches) in height, the vehicle provides sufficient headroom while remaining compact.

Wheelbase: The wheelbase, the distance between the front and rear axles, measures around 188.5 cm (74.21 inches). This contributes to stability and a smooth ride.

Ground Clearance: The Sambar maintains a ground clearance of approximately 17.5 cm (6.88 inches), striking a balance between easy entry and exit and practicality for various road conditions.

Weight: With a weight of 880 kg (1940 lbs), the Sambar 660 Dias-S is lightweight, contributing to its fuel efficiency and agility.

Seating Capacity: The minivan comfortably seats up to four passengers, making it suitable for small families or groups.

Doors: It features five doors, which include the driver and front passenger doors, rear passenger doors, and a rear hatch for convenient access to the cargo area.

Turning Radius: The Sambar boasts a minimum turning circle of 3.9 meters, enhancing its maneuverability in tight spaces and urban settings.

These dimensions and sizes highlight the practicality and urban-friendly design of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S. Its compact stature, combined with well-thought-out proportions, makes it a versatile choice for daily commuting and light-duty transportation needs.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The fuel tank capacity of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is an important specification that influences its range and convenience for drivers. Here, we explore this specific aspect of the vehicle:

Fuel Tank Capacity: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is equipped with a fuel tank that can hold up to 10.5 US gallons (or 8.7 UK gallons, approximately 40 liters) of fuel. This capacity ensures that the vehicle has a decent fuel range, allowing for longer drives between refueling stops.

A fuel tank of this size is particularly advantageous for a compact minivan like the Sambar. It strikes a balance between providing a sufficient fuel reserve for extended trips and keeping the vehicle's overall weight and size in check. With this fuel tank capacity, the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S remains a practical choice for daily commutes and short journeys, offering a reasonable balance between fuel efficiency and driving convenience.

Fuel Consumption

Examining the fuel consumption of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S provides insight into its efficiency and cost-effectiveness as a compact minivan:

Fuel Efficiency: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is designed with a strong emphasis on fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and light-duty tasks. In a 60 km/h mode, this vehicle achieves a commendable fuel consumption rating. It delivers approximately 45.2 mpg US (or 54.3 mpg UK, equivalent to about 5.2 L/100km).

This impressive fuel efficiency figure reflects the efforts put into optimizing the engine's performance and vehicle design. It enables drivers to travel longer distances on a single tank of fuel, reducing the frequency of refueling stops and overall operating costs.

The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S stands out as an economical choice for individuals seeking a vehicle that combines practicality, efficiency, and affordability. Its fuel-efficient nature makes it well-suited for urban driving, where stop-and-go traffic and short trips are common, helping owners save on fuel expenses while minimizing their carbon footprint.

Fuel Average (MPG)

The fuel average, often expressed in miles per gallon (MPG), is a critical metric for assessing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a vehicle like the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S. Here, we delve into this aspect of the vehicle's performance:

Fuel Average (MPG): The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S delivers a noteworthy fuel economy, making it a practical choice for drivers seeking economical transportation. While specific fuel economy figures may vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance, this minivan typically achieves approximately 45.2 mpg US (or 54.3 mpg UK).

This fuel average, expressed in miles per gallon, indicates how far the vehicle can travel on a gallon of fuel. It reflects the vehicle's efficient design, which includes a small yet capable engine and a focus on reducing fuel consumption.

The impressive fuel average of the Sambar 660 Dias-S not only saves drivers money at the pump but also reduces the frequency of refueling stops, contributing to a more convenient driving experience. Whether used for daily commuting or light cargo transport, this vehicle's fuel efficiency is a valuable asset, aligning with the demands of urban driving where cost-effective transportation is essential.

Wheel Specifications

Examining the wheel specifications of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S provides insights into its handling, traction, and overall road performance. Here's an overview of its wheel-related details:

Tyres and Rims Dimensions: The Sambar 660 Dias-S features tyres with dimensions of 145S R12. These dimensions indicate the width, aspect ratio, and rim size of the tyres, which play a crucial role in the vehicle's grip on the road and its overall ride comfort.

Aluminium Disk: The vehicle comes equipped with standard aluminium disks. These provide a balance between strength and weight savings, contributing to the vehicle's overall efficiency and handling characteristics.

Front Brakes - Disc Dimensions: The front brakes of the Sambar 660 Dias-S are ventilated disks. Ventilated disks feature a design that allows for better heat dissipation during braking, enhancing braking performance and durability.

Rear Brakes - Disc Dimensions: The rear brakes are leading trailing drum brakes. Drum brakes are known for their reliability and cost-effectiveness, particularly for rear-wheel braking applications.

Suspension: The front suspension of the Sambar 660 Dias-S is of the McPherson strut type, offering a combination of ride comfort and stability. In the rear, it features a semitrailing arm type suspension, contributing to a smooth and controlled ride.

Wheel specifications are crucial for the overall handling and performance of a vehicle, affecting its ability to grip the road, absorb shocks, and provide a comfortable ride. The Sambar 660 Dias-S is designed with these considerations in mind, striking a balance between efficiency, performance, and practicality for urban driving and light-duty tasks.

Trim Levels and Generations

Exploring the trim levels and generations of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S provides insight into the options available for this compact minivan:

Trim Levels: The 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S was available in various trim levels to cater to different preferences and needs. These trim levels may have included options like air conditioning, power steering, and other convenience features.

Generations: During the specified production years, the Sambar 660 Dias-S likely represented a particular generation of the model. Generational updates often involve changes to the vehicle's design, technology, and features, with each new generation building upon the strengths of its predecessor.

Specific details about the trim levels and generations may vary depending on the market and region where the vehicle was sold. Buyers could choose the trim level that best suited their requirements, whether it be a basic and economical option or a more feature-rich configuration.

Understanding the available trim levels and the generation of the Sambar 660 Dias-S can help potential buyers make informed decisions about which model suits their preferences and needs, taking into account factors like budget, desired features, and intended use.

Interior Features

Examining the interior features of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S sheds light on the comfort and convenience offered within this compact minivan:

Power Window: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is equipped with power windows, providing a convenient way to adjust the windows without manual effort.

Power Steering: Standard power steering enhances ease of maneuverability, reducing the effort required to steer the vehicle, particularly useful in urban driving.

Centralized Door Lock: Centralized door locking is a practical feature that allows the driver to lock or unlock all doors simultaneously, improving security and convenience.

Right Hand Drive: The Sambar 660 Dias-S typically features right-hand drive (RHD), which is common in vehicles designed for countries with right-hand traffic. It suits markets where driving on the left side of the road is the norm.

Reclining Seats: The minivan comes with seats that can recline, offering passengers the option to adjust their seating positions for increased comfort during journeys.

Removable Seats: Some configurations of the Sambar 660 Dias-S offer removable seats, allowing for flexibility in seating and cargo arrangements.

These interior features contribute to the overall comfort, convenience, and versatility of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S. Whether used for daily commuting or light-duty transport, these amenities enhance the driving experience, making it a practical choice for a variety of needs.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is a key aspect that defines its appearance and functionality as a compact minivan:

Exterior Dimensions: The Sambar 660 Dias-S boasts compact exterior dimensions, with a length of approximately 329.5 cm, a width of about 139.5 cm, and a height of roughly 189 cm. These proportions contribute to its maneuverability in urban settings and parking ease.

Design Language: The vehicle exhibits a clean and functional design language, characterized by its boxy and utilitarian shape. This design prioritizes practicality and maximizes interior space for passengers and cargo.

Number of Doors: The minivan features five doors, including the driver and front passenger doors, rear passenger doors, and a rear hatch. This door configuration provides convenient access to both the passenger compartment and the cargo area.

Exterior Features: While the Sambar 660 Dias-S focuses on practicality, it typically lacks some of the exterior features commonly found in larger vehicles. Notable features such as sunroofs, front and rear spoilers, and advanced lighting systems like Xenon lamps are generally not included in its design.

Roof Rail: The vehicle does not come equipped with roof rails, which are often used for transporting additional cargo or accessories like roof racks.

The exterior design of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is characterized by its compact and functional appearance. While it may not include many of the aesthetic and high-tech features found in larger vehicles, it excels in providing a practical and space-efficient solution for urban driving and light-duty transportation needs.

Performance and Handling

Evaluating the performance and handling characteristics of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S provides insights into its capabilities as a compact minivan:

Engine Power: Powered by a 658cc engine generating approximately 46.6 PS (46 horsepower), the Sambar 660 Dias-S offers sufficient power for urban driving and light-duty tasks. While not designed for high-speed performance, it provides adequate acceleration and efficiency for daily commuting.

Torque: With a maximum torque of around 54.9 Nm, the vehicle offers the necessary twisting force for tackling inclines and navigating various road conditions, ensuring stability and control.

Transmission: The Sambar 660 Dias-S employs an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) gearbox. This transmission type allows for seamless gear shifting and smooth acceleration, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

Suspension: The minivan features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semitrailing arm-type rear suspension. This combination strikes a balance between ride comfort and handling stability, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience.

Turning Radius: With a minimum turning circle of 3.9 meters, the Sambar 660 Dias-S exhibits excellent maneuverability, making it suitable for navigating crowded city streets and tight parking spaces.

Fuel Efficiency: The vehicle's focus on fuel efficiency, with a fuel consumption rating of approximately 45.2 mpg US, contributes to cost savings and environmental friendliness.

Braking: Equipped with ventilated front disk brakes and leading trailing drum brakes at the rear, the Sambar 660 Dias-S offers reliable braking performance for safe and controlled stops.

The performance and handling characteristics of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S are well-suited for its intended use as an urban-oriented minivan. Its compact size, efficient engine, and maneuverability make it a practical choice for daily commuting, while its reliable handling ensures stability and control on various road surfaces.

Maintenance and Reliability

Maintenance and reliability are crucial aspects to consider when evaluating the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S as a vehicle for daily use and light-duty transportation:

Routine Maintenance: Like any vehicle, the Sambar 660 Dias-S requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Routine tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations should be performed as recommended by the manufacturer. Following a consistent maintenance schedule can help prevent issues and prolong the vehicle's lifespan.

Simplicity: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is designed with simplicity in mind. Its straightforward engineering, including the use of a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) engine and proven mechanical components, contributes to its ease of maintenance. Simplicity often translates to lower maintenance costs and easier servicing for owners.

Reliability: Subaru is known for producing reliable vehicles, and the Sambar 660 Dias-S is no exception. With proper care and maintenance, this minivan can offer dependable performance over the years. Many owners find it to be a durable and trustworthy choice for their transportation needs.

Availability of Parts: Availability of replacement parts and components is a critical factor in the long-term reliability of any vehicle. Depending on the region, parts for the Sambar 660 Dias-S may be readily available, making repairs and maintenance more convenient and cost-effective.

Owner Responsibility: Owners play a significant role in the vehicle's reliability. Following recommended maintenance schedules, addressing issues promptly, and practicing responsible driving habits all contribute to the overall reliability and longevity of the Sambar 660 Dias-S.

While no vehicle is entirely maintenance-free, the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is designed to be a reliable and practical choice for daily commuting and light-duty transportation. With proper care and attention, it can provide dependable service for years to come.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Achieving optimal fuel efficiency is a key consideration for owners of the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S. Here are some practical fuel efficiency tips to make the most of this compact minivan:

Regular Maintenance: Ensure that your Sambar 660 Dias-S receives routine maintenance. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently.

Proper Tire Inflation: Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency.

Smooth Driving: Practice smooth and gradual acceleration and braking. Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and abrupt braking, as they can significantly impact fuel consumption.

Moderate Speeds: Driving at moderate and consistent speeds can improve fuel efficiency. Avoid excessive speeding, as higher speeds often result in increased air resistance and fuel consumption.

Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle's interior and trunk. Carrying excess weight can decrease fuel efficiency.

Aerodynamic Considerations: While the Sambar 660 Dias-S has a boxy design, you can still reduce aerodynamic drag by removing roof-mounted cargo carriers or other accessories when not in use.

Plan Your Trips: Combine errands and plan your routes to minimize the number of trips you need to make. This reduces overall mileage and fuel consumption.

Idle Wisely: Avoid extended idling. Modern engines are designed to be more fuel-efficient when restarted rather than idling for long periods.

Use Air Conditioning Sparingly: Air conditioning can increase fuel consumption. Use it selectively and consider using the vehicle's ventilation system when possible.

Fuel Quality: Use the recommended fuel type for your Sambar 660 Dias-S. Using higher-octane fuel when not necessary can be wasteful and costly.

By following these fuel efficiency tips and adopting responsible driving habits, you can maximize the fuel economy of your 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S, reducing operating costs and minimizing your environmental impact.

Comparing the 1996 and 1997 Models

Comparing the 1996 and 1997 models of the Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S reveals any potential differences and improvements between the two production years:

Production Period: Both the 1996 and 1997 models of the Sambar 660 Dias-S were produced as part of the same generation. Their production spanned from September 1996 to October 1997.

Drive Wheels and Drivetrain: Both model years feature rear-wheel drive (RR), providing similar traction and handling characteristics.

Body Type: The body type for both years remains consistent, featuring a compact minivan design with two rows of seats, making it suitable for small families or light-duty transportation.

Transmission: The 1996 and 1997 models are equipped with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), ensuring smooth and efficient gear changes.

Engine: Both models share the same EN07 engine with a displacement of 658cc, providing adequate power for urban driving.

Dimensions: The exterior dimensions, including length, width, height, wheelbase, and ground clearance, are consistent between the two model years, ensuring similar maneuverability and practicality.

Fuel Tank Capacity: The fuel tank capacity also remains the same for both years, with a capacity of 10.5 US gallons (8.7 UK gallons or approximately 40 liters).

Fuel Efficiency: The 1996 and 1997 models offer comparable fuel efficiency, achieving approximately 45.2 mpg US (54.3 mpg UK or 5.2 L/100km) in a 60 km/h mode.

Interior Features: The interior features, including power windows, power steering, centralized door lock, and reclining seats, are likely consistent between the two model years.

Exterior Design: The exterior design, characterized by its compact and utilitarian appearance, remains unchanged between the two production years.

Performance and Handling: The performance and handling characteristics, such as engine power, torque, transmission, and suspension, are expected to be similar for both the 1996 and 1997 models.

Maintenance and Reliability: Maintenance requirements and reliability are likely to be consistent, with both models benefiting from regular upkeep and responsible ownership.

Fuel Efficiency Tips: Fuel efficiency tips, as mentioned earlier, apply equally to both model years and can help owners make the most of their vehicles.

In summary, while there may be minor variations in features or specifications, the 1996 and 1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S models are expected to offer a similar driving experience and practicality, with any differences likely to be minimal and incremental.

Conclusion: Is the Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S Right for You?

In conclusion, whether the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is the right vehicle for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Compact Practicality: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is a compact minivan designed primarily for urban driving and light-duty transportation. If you require a vehicle for daily commuting, running errands, or transporting small groups, its compact size and practical design can be advantageous.

Fuel Efficiency: The vehicle offers commendable fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for fuel-conscious individuals. Its fuel economy can help you save on operating costs, especially in urban environments where stop-and-go traffic is common.

Simplicity and Reliability: The Sambar 660 Dias-S is known for its straightforward engineering and reliability. If you value a vehicle that is easy to maintain and offers dependable performance, this model aligns with those expectations.

Interior Comfort: While the interior features are practical, they may not include all the amenities found in larger vehicles. Consider your comfort and convenience needs when evaluating this minivan.

Cargo Flexibility: Some configurations offer removable seats, providing flexibility for transporting cargo when needed. This can be advantageous for individuals who require occasional cargo space.

Driving Habits: Your driving habits and the type of terrain you encounter regularly should be considered. The Sambar 660 Dias-S is well-suited for city driving but may not be ideal for long highway journeys or rugged off-road adventures.

Budget: Assess your budget and determine if the pricing and overall cost of ownership align with your financial goals.

Ultimately, the 1996-1997 Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S is a practical and economical choice for urban driving and light transportation needs. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and reliability make it a viable option for those seeking a straightforward and cost-effective vehicle. However, it's essential to evaluate how well it matches your specific lifestyle and requirements before making a decision.

Subaru Sambar 660 Dias-S FAQ: Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered