1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 46.1 mpg US - 55.3 mpg UK - 5.1 L/100km, a weight of 1521 lbs (690 kg), the Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro has a water cooling 4 cylinder SOHC engine, a Regular gasoline engine EN07. This engine EN07 produces a maximum power of 48.6 PS (48 bhp - 35.7 kW) at 6400 rpm and a maximum torque of 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft - 5.6 kg.m) at 4000 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the front wheel drive (FF) with a ECVT gearbox. For stopping power, the Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Disk at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro has dual link strut rear suspension and L type lower arm strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 25, 2024

Introduction to the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, a compact hatchback, made its brief appearance in the automotive scene during October of that year. As a quirky and distinctive offering, the 660 Bistro boasted a front-wheel-drive (FF) configuration that contributed to its agile handling and maneuverability. Its body type, a hatchback, provided practicality with a touch of style.

Under its hood, the 1996 Vivio 660 Bistro hid a compact yet spirited engine, housing 658 cm³ of displacement. This engine, denoted by the code "EN07," breathed life into the vehicle. Despite its modest size, it delivered a maximum power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm and a torque of 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm. The engine's design incorporated water cooling, and it featured four cylinders and a single overhead cam (SOHC) configuration.

One of the vehicle's distinctive features was its Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), offering seamless gear changes and contributing to the overall fuel efficiency. Speaking of which, the 660 Bistro showcased impressive fuel consumption figures. In the 10/15 mode, it achieved around 46.1 mpg in the US (55.3 mpg in the UK) or 5.1 L/100km. When cruising at 60 km/h, it excelled even further, reaching approximately 61.8 mpg in the US (74.3 mpg in the UK) or 3.8 L/100km.

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's compact dimensions were geared towards urban living. With an exterior length of 329.5 cm, width of 139.5 cm, and height of 137.5 cm, it effortlessly navigated city streets. Inside, its dimensions allowed comfortable seating for four passengers and incorporated features like power windows and power steering for convenience.

The suspension of the 660 Bistro was optimized for its compact nature. The front suspension featured an L-type lower arm strut, while the rear suspension employed a dual-link strut setup. The vehicle rode on 155/70 R12 tires mounted on standard aluminum disks.

While safety features like side airbags and Traction Control System (TCS) were not part of its offerings, the 660 Bistro featured driver's airbag and side impact bars as safety measures.

In summary, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro was a distinctive hatchback that found its place within urban landscapes. Its compact dimensions, efficient engine, and practical design contributed to its allure as a nimble and efficient city car.

Engine Options and Performance

Nestled within the heart of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro lay an engine that defied its size with spirited performance. This compact hatchback was equipped with the EN07 engine, a powerplant that spoke volumes despite its modest displacement of 658 cm³.

Under the hood, the EN07 engine revealed itself as a water-cooled, four-cylinder marvel. Its single overhead cam (SOHC) configuration enabled a harmonious balance between efficiency and power delivery. Generating a maximum power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm, this engine proved its capability even within the confines of urban roads.

Torque, the force responsible for launching the 660 Bistro with enthusiasm, was another area where the engine excelled. Clocking in at 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm, the engine showcased its willingness to perform across a range of driving conditions.

The pairing of this engine with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) transformed the 660 Bistro into a city-friendly dynamo. The seamless gear changes contributed to its nimble character, making it a suitable choice for navigating tight streets and bustling traffic.

While the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro may have been modest in size, its engine spoke a language of efficiency and agility. With its balanced power delivery and practical transmission, it carved a distinct space within the realm of compact hatchbacks, showcasing that performance could be found in even the most diminutive packages.

Fuel Efficiency and Consumption

Efficiency was a defining trait of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, evident in its impressive fuel consumption figures. This compact hatchback was engineered to make the most out of every drop of fuel, making it an economical choice for urban commuting.

In the 10/15 mode, the 660 Bistro exhibited an admirable fuel consumption rate of around 46.1 mpg in the US (55.3 mpg in the UK) or 5.1 L/100km. These numbers showcased its frugal nature, allowing drivers to traverse city streets and highways with minimal stops at the pump.

Even more striking was its performance in the 60 km/h mode, where it truly shined as an economic powerhouse. At this speed, the 660 Bistro demonstrated a remarkable fuel consumption rate of approximately 61.8 mpg in the US (74.3 mpg in the UK) or 3.8 L/100km. This highlighted its capacity to excel in stop-and-go traffic scenarios while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency.

This dedication to conserving fuel was not only practical but also environmentally conscious, aligning with the evolving values of the automotive industry. The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro showcased that driving a compact car did not equate to sacrificing performance or comfort, all while keeping fuel consumption at a commendable low.

Dimensions and Sizes

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's dimensions were a testament to its compact nature, optimized for urban driving and maneuverability. This hatchback exuded an exterior length of 329.5 cm, providing a concise and nimble profile that was well-suited for navigating tight city streets.

Width-wise, the 660 Bistro extended to 139.5 cm, contributing to its ability to slip into parking spaces with ease. Its exterior height reached 137.5 cm, allowing it to effortlessly slide beneath overhead obstacles while retaining ample interior space for passengers.

Inside the vehicle, the story of compact efficiency continued. The interior length measured 169.5 cm, while the interior width reached 119.5 cm. These dimensions ensured a cozy yet functional interior space for occupants, fostering a comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers.

Standing at 231 cm, the wheelbase of the 660 Bistro played a pivotal role in its stability and ride comfort, while the ground clearance of 15 cm provided just the right balance between urban clearance and easy entry.

The vehicle's weight of 690 kg made it a lightweight contender, contributing to its agility and fuel efficiency. Despite its compact size, the 660 Bistro accommodated seating for four passengers across five doors, catering to both convenience and practicality.

Completing the package was its minimum turning circle of 4.5 meters, further emphasizing its aptitude for city navigation. The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's dimensions showcased an ideal marriage between compact dimensions and interior comfort, striking a harmonious balance for urban adventurers.

Wheel and Tire Information

The wheel and tire configuration of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro contributed to its agile and responsive performance on the road. The vehicle was outfitted with wheels that sported 155/70 R12 tires, a combination that harmonized well with its compact design and urban-focused intent.

The choice of 155/70 R12 tires served as a testament to the balance between ride comfort and handling prowess. These tires offered a blend of cushioning and grip, enhancing the 660 Bistro's ability to tackle various road conditions while ensuring a smooth ride for both driver and passengers.

Complementing the tire setup, the inclusion of standard aluminum disks further elevated the vehicle's performance and aesthetics. The choice of aluminum disks not only contributed to the overall weight reduction but also added a touch of modernity to the 660 Bistro's exterior.

The combination of 155/70 R12 tires and aluminum disks played a pivotal role in the vehicle's overall dynamics. The choice of this wheel and tire setup catered to urban driving scenarios, aligning with the 660 Bistro's intent to provide a nimble and efficient city driving experience.

Trim Levels and Variants

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro was presented to the market with a focused approach, offering a single trim level for customers seeking a distinctive and efficient city car. This streamlined approach aimed to provide a clear choice to urban drivers who valued practicality and economy.

The 660 Bistro trim level encompassed a range of features that catered to the needs of city dwellers. Its compact dimensions, coupled with the efficient EN07 engine and Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), made it an ideal companion for navigating crowded streets and congested traffic.

Inside the 660 Bistro, the focus remained on providing a comfortable and functional interior for passengers. Power windows and power steering were part of the standard package, contributing to ease of use and convenience for the driver. The vehicle's four-door configuration allowed easy access for both front and rear passengers, making entry and exit hassle-free.

While the 660 Bistro trim level did not incorporate extravagant features, its emphasis on fuel efficiency, practicality, and urban agility made it a stand-out choice for individuals seeking a reliable and economical city car. This singular approach in trim levels showcased Subaru's understanding of its target audience, ensuring that the 1996 Vivio 660 Bistro met the specific demands of urban mobility.

Generations of the Vivio 660 Bistro

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro marked a unique and distinct chapter in the Vivio lineage. Although the 660 Bistro was a brief presence in the automotive landscape, it left an indelible mark with its singular design and efficient characteristics.

The Vivio model had a limited production run, and the 660 Bistro emerged as a distinctive iteration within that timeline. Its design and engineering reflected the evolving demands of urban living, emphasizing compactness, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability.

The 660 Bistro's singular generation encapsulated the essence of the Vivio series while embodying a specific moment in time. Its compact size, versatile features, and city-centric performance set it apart within the Vivio family. The 660 Bistro's fleeting yet impactful presence showcased Subaru's willingness to experiment with innovative designs that catered to the demands of urban environments.

Although the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's generation was singular, it left an impression that resonated with drivers seeking a practical and nimble solution for city driving. This generation of the Vivio family stood as a testament to Subaru's commitment to adapting to changing needs and trends, resulting in a vehicle that captured the spirit of its era.

Interior Features and Space

Stepping inside the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro revealed a carefully designed interior space that maximized comfort and functionality within its compact dimensions. Despite its modest size, the 660 Bistro made efficient use of its interior layout to provide a cozy yet accommodating environment for both driver and passengers.

The cabin's well-thought-out design included features like power windows and power steering, enhancing the driving experience while simplifying control access. The interior width of 119.5 cm allowed for a comfortable arrangement of seating, ensuring that passengers could enjoy the journey without feeling cramped.

Front and rear passengers alike benefited from the vehicle's four-door configuration, which eased entry and exit from the vehicle. This thoughtful design contributed to the 660 Bistro's urban-friendly nature, making it a practical choice for navigating city streets.

While the vehicle's interior dimensions catered to efficiency, the interior height of 114.5 cm created an open and airy atmosphere within the cabin. The vehicle's nimble wheelbase of 231 cm further contributed to the interior's spacious feel, making it a comfortable space even during short commutes.

In summary, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's interior showcased a harmonious blend of compact design and practicality. By utilizing its interior dimensions wisely and incorporating thoughtful features, the 660 Bistro transformed its limited space into a functional and comfortable haven for urban drivers and passengers alike.

Safety Features Overview

Safety was a consideration woven into the fabric of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, aimed at providing occupants with a secure and confident driving experience within its compact dimensions. While not offering an extensive array of safety features by today's standards, the 660 Bistro incorporated key measures to enhance protection for both driver and passengers.

The driver's airbag stood as a primary safety feature, ready to deploy in the event of a collision to mitigate potential impact forces. Additionally, the inclusion of side impact bars added an extra layer of protection, bolstering the vehicle's ability to manage collision forces and safeguard occupants from side impacts.

While the 660 Bistro did not include side airbags or advanced driver assistance systems like Traction Control System (TCS) or Brake Assist, its safety features were focused on fundamental protection. These features acknowledged the vehicle's role as a compact city car, where the emphasis was on maneuverability, efficiency, and safety within an urban environment.

Incorporating these safety measures demonstrated Subaru's commitment to ensuring the well-being of drivers and passengers in various driving scenarios. The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro aimed to strike a balance between compact dimensions, efficient performance, and basic safety considerations, delivering a vehicle that could navigate city streets with confidence.

Conclusion and Summary

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro encapsulated the essence of compact and efficient city driving. With its unique design, the 660 Bistro catered to urban lifestyles, offering a nimble and economical solution for navigating bustling streets. Its single trim level showcased a well-thought-out combination of features that prioritized practicality and functionality.

Under the hood, the EN07 engine provided a spirited yet efficient performance, making it well-suited for urban commutes. The vehicle's compact dimensions, coupled with its impressive fuel efficiency figures, emphasized its role as a reliable city car. The interior space, while snug, was designed to optimize comfort for both driver and passengers, while safety features like the driver's airbag and side impact bars provided basic protection.

In terms of size, the 660 Bistro struck a balance between exterior dimensions and interior space, providing ample room for maneuverability without compromising passenger comfort. The wheel and tire setup, as well as the aluminum disks, contributed to its agility on the road.

While the 660 Bistro represented a singular generation within the Vivio lineup, its impact was not confined to its short production span. This compact hatchback carved a niche for itself in the world of urban mobility, showcasing that efficiency and style could coexist within the confines of a city-centric vehicle.

In essence, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro left a lasting impression as a compact car tailored for city life. Its unique design, efficient performance, and practical features all combined to create a vehicle that spoke to the needs of urban drivers seeking a reliable, agile, and fuel-efficient solution for their daily journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro