1997 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 19, 2024

Introduction to the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro represents a compact and economical hatchback that epitomizes the essence of a kei car. This diminutive vehicle, produced between September 1997 and September 1998, was designed to excel in urban environments, offering an efficient and practical solution for daily commuting.

In terms of drivetrain, the Vivio 660 Bistro features front-wheel drive (FF) and is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (ECVT), enhancing its maneuverability and fuel efficiency. The heart of this tiny powerhouse is a 658cc engine with the engine code EN07, delivering a modest yet sufficient power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm, coupled with a torque of 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm. It's important to note that this engine is a water-cooled 4-cylinder SOHC unit, and it runs on regular gasoline.

Measuring just 329.5 cm (129.72 inches) in exterior length, 139.5 cm (54.92 inches) in width, and 137.5 cm (54.13 inches) in height, the Vivio 660 Bistro is a compact and agile companion for navigating through crowded city streets. Its interior dimensions offer a comfortable cabin space, with a length of 169.5 cm (66.73 inches), width of 119.5 cm (47.04 inches), and height of 114.5 cm (45.07 inches). The wheelbase spans 231 cm (90.94 inches), while the ground clearance is set at 15 cm (5.9 inches).

Despite its small size, the Vivio 660 Bistro provides seating for four passengers with five doors for convenient access. It boasts a minimum turning circle of 4.5 meters, further enhancing its urban agility. The car's fuel tank has a capacity of 8.4 US gallons (7 UK gallons or 32 liters), making it a practical choice for daily commuting with fewer stops at the gas station.

In the suspension department, the front features disc brakes, while the rear utilizes leading-trailing drum brakes. The front suspension consists of an L-type lower arm strut setup, while the rear suspension is a dual-link strut configuration. The car rides on 155/70 R12 tires mounted on standard aluminum disks.

This kei car offers a range of amenities, including power windows, power steering, centralized door locking, and keyless entry. It's equipped with ultraviolet glass protection to enhance the comfort of its occupants. In terms of safety, it comes with a driver's airbag, side impact bars, and standard safety features for its era.

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, with its compact dimensions, efficient engine, and practical features, remains an intriguing option for those seeking a nimble and economical urban commuting solution.

Model Years and Generations

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, nestled within the realm of compact kei cars, represents a specific model range produced during a short but significant time frame. Within the Vivio lineup, these model years mark a distinctive generation known for its compact dimensions, efficiency, and urban-friendly design.

During the period of September 1997 to September 1998, Subaru introduced the Vivio 660 Bistro to cater to consumers seeking a small, nimble, and economical vehicle. This particular generation of the Vivio was designed to excel in city driving conditions, thanks to its compact exterior dimensions and front-wheel-drive (FF) setup.

The key distinguishing features of this generation include its compact hatchback body style and the utilization of a continuously variable transmission (ECVT). These elements combined to offer a practical, no-nonsense transportation solution for urban dwellers.

Under the hood, the 1997-1998 Vivio 660 Bistro is powered by a 658cc engine with the engine code EN07. This engine, characterized by its water-cooled 4-cylinder SOHC configuration, delivered a modest yet suitable power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm, coupled with a torque of 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm. It runs on regular gasoline and is designed to deliver fuel efficiency—a crucial aspect for city-centric vehicles.

In terms of dimensions, this generation of the Vivio 660 Bistro maintains its compact stature, making it an ideal choice for navigating tight urban streets. With its exterior length of 329.5 cm (129.72 inches), width of 139.5 cm (54.92 inches), and height of 137.5 cm (54.13 inches), it can effortlessly maneuver through crowded cityscapes. Its interior space is designed to maximize comfort within the confines of its small footprint, providing sufficient seating for four passengers.

This generation retains the quintessential kei car attributes, including a small turning circle, front disc brakes, leading-trailing drum brakes at the rear, and a practical fuel tank capacity of 8.4 US gallons (7 UK gallons or 32 liters).

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, as a part of its generation, embodies the essence of a kei car—compact, efficient, and tailored for urban mobility. This brief yet distinctive chapter in the Vivio's history showcases Subaru's commitment to providing practical solutions for city commuters during this era.

Engine Types and Performance

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, with its focus on efficiency and nimble city driving, comes equipped with a specific engine designed to meet the demands of urban commuting. This engine, coded as EN07, forms the heart of this compact kei car and delivers a balance of power and efficiency suitable for its intended purpose.

The EN07 engine is a 658cc powerplant, featuring a 4-cylinder single overhead cam (SOHC) configuration. Designed for water cooling, this engine exhibits qualities characteristic of kei cars, offering a practical solution for daily urban transportation needs.

In terms of performance, the EN07 engine generates a maximum power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm. While this may seem modest in comparison to larger engines, it aligns perfectly with the kei car category, where efficiency and compactness are paramount. The engine's torque output is 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm, providing sufficient low-end power for city driving.

This engine's performance characteristics are well-matched with the Vivio 660 Bistro's urban-focused design. It offers a good balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for navigating congested city streets and maintaining low operating costs.

One noteworthy aspect of the Vivio 660 Bistro's performance is its fuel efficiency, which is a crucial factor for city commuters. It achieves a commendable fuel consumption rate, especially in urban driving conditions. While specific fuel economy figures can vary based on driving habits and conditions, the Vivio 660 Bistro boasts impressive fuel efficiency, aligning with the expectations of kei car enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's engine, identified by the code EN07, is tailored to provide efficient and adequate performance for urban driving. Its power output, torque characteristics, and fuel efficiency make it a suitable choice for those seeking a practical and economical solution for navigating cityscapes.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The fuel tank capacity of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro is a crucial specification, especially for a compact city car designed for daily commuting. This kei car is equipped with a fuel tank that has a capacity of 8.4 US gallons, equivalent to 7 UK gallons or approximately 32 liters.

This capacity is well-suited to the Vivio 660 Bistro's intended purpose as a practical and efficient urban commuter. With a fuel tank of this size, drivers can cover a considerable distance before needing to refuel, reducing the frequency of stops at gas stations and providing convenience for city dwellers on the move.

The balance between the car's fuel tank size and its fuel efficiency, thanks to its compact and economical engine, ensures that the Vivio 660 Bistro can meet the demands of urban driving while keeping operating costs in check. This kei car's efficient use of fuel aligns with the expectations of drivers in densely populated cities, where fuel economy and convenience are highly valued.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro features a fuel tank with a capacity of 8.4 US gallons (7 UK gallons or 32 liters), striking a practical balance between fuel storage and efficiency. This specification contributes to the vehicle's suitability for daily urban commuting, where minimizing fuel stops is a significant advantage.

Fuel Consumption and MPG

Understanding the fuel consumption and miles per gallon (MPG) figures of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro is essential for assessing its efficiency, particularly in the context of urban driving where minimizing fuel usage is paramount.

In the 10/15 mode, the Vivio 660 Bistro achieves a fuel consumption rate of 46.1 mpg in the United States, 55.3 mpg in the United Kingdom, or 5.1 L/100km. This mode typically represents a mix of urban and suburban driving conditions and serves as a reliable indicator of real-world fuel efficiency for city commuters.

When operating at a steady speed, such as on the highway or during sustained freeway driving at 60 km/h, this kei car exhibits even greater fuel efficiency. In the 60 km/h mode, it achieves an impressive fuel consumption rate of 61.8 mpg in the United States, 74.3 mpg in the United Kingdom, or 3.8 L/100km.

These fuel efficiency figures underline the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's suitability for urban and city driving. Its compact size, lightweight design, and efficient engine contribute to these commendable fuel consumption rates, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for daily commuters.

Drivers of the Vivio 660 Bistro can take advantage of these efficient fuel consumption figures to reduce their overall operating costs while enjoying a practical and nimble urban driving experience. The combination of a small fuel tank and exceptional fuel economy ensures fewer stops at the gas pump, making this kei car a convenient choice for those navigating congested city streets.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro offers impressive fuel consumption figures, with ratings of 46.1 mpg in the 10/15 mode and 61.8 mpg in the 60 km/h mode. These statistics underscore its suitability as an efficient and economical urban commuter vehicle.

Dimensions and Sizes

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro is a compact and agile kei car designed to excel in urban environments, making its dimensions and sizes a critical aspect of its practicality and appeal.

In terms of exterior dimensions, this kei car measures approximately 329.5 cm (129.72 inches) in length, 139.5 cm (54.92 inches) in width, and 137.5 cm (54.13 inches) in height. These compact dimensions make the Vivio 660 Bistro an ideal choice for navigating through narrow city streets and fitting into tight parking spaces. Its exterior size ensures maneuverability and ease of handling, contributing to its overall urban-friendly design.

Moving to the interior, the Vivio 660 Bistro provides a comfortable cabin space despite its compact exterior. The interior length measures around 169.5 cm (66.73 inches), offering ample room for passengers. The width of approximately 119.5 cm (47.04 inches) ensures a cozy yet accommodating interior, while the height of around 114.5 cm (45.07 inches) provides sufficient headroom for occupants.

With a wheelbase of 231 cm (90.94 inches), the Vivio 660 Bistro maintains stability and balance while on the road, enhancing its overall driving experience. The car's ground clearance stands at 15 cm (5.9 inches), contributing to its capability to navigate over various road surfaces commonly encountered in urban environments.

Despite its small footprint, the Vivio 660 Bistro offers seating for four passengers within its compact interior. This combination of exterior and interior dimensions strikes a balance between urban agility and passenger comfort, making it an appealing choice for city commuters.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro exhibits compact yet functional dimensions, both externally and internally. These dimensions are carefully designed to enhance its maneuverability in urban settings while providing a comfortable and practical space for passengers.

Trim Levels and Configurations

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro offered a range of trim levels and configurations to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its customers. These variations allowed buyers to select the specific features and amenities that best suited their urban commuting requirements.

While the exact trim levels and configurations can vary by market and region, here are some common features and options that were typically available for the Vivio 660 Bistro during these model years:

1. Power Windows: Many versions of the Vivio 660 Bistro came equipped with power windows, enhancing convenience for occupants.

2. Power Steering: Power steering was a standard feature in most trim levels, making maneuvering in city traffic effortless.

3. Centralized Door Lock: Centralized door locking system added an extra layer of security and ease of use.

4. Keyless Entry: Keyless entry systems were available in certain configurations, offering a modern and convenient way to access the vehicle.

5. Ultraviolet Glass Protection: Ultraviolet (UV) glass protection was often included to shield occupants from harmful UV rays while driving.

6. Roof Rails: Some trim levels may have featured roof rails, allowing for additional cargo-carrying options.

7. Aluminum Wheels: Standard aluminum wheels contributed to the car's overall aesthetics and performance.

While the Vivio 660 Bistro emphasized practicality and efficiency, these available features and configurations allowed buyers to personalize their vehicles to a certain extent. However, it's important to note that the primary focus of this kei car remained on delivering a cost-effective and urban-friendly driving experience.

The exact trim levels and configurations may vary, so potential buyers would need to consult the specifications and options available in their respective regions or markets to make an informed choice. Nevertheless, the flexibility in trim levels and configurations ensured that the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro could cater to a range of urban mobility needs and preferences.

Wheel Options

Wheel options for the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro played a role in both its aesthetics and performance, contributing to the overall driving experience of this compact and urban-focused kei car.

The standard wheel size for the Vivio 660 Bistro was typically 155/70 R12, indicating a 12-inch wheel diameter with 155mm width and a 70% aspect ratio of tire height to tire width. This wheel size was chosen to strike a balance between ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency, aligning with the car's primary role as a city commuter.

The use of 12-inch wheels offered several advantages, including nimble handling in tight urban spaces and cost-effective tire replacement options. It also contributed to the car's compact and agile design, allowing it to navigate through crowded city streets with ease.

While standard aluminum wheels were a common feature, the availability of different wheel options could vary depending on the specific trim level and market. Some buyers might have had the option to choose from a selection of alloy wheel designs to further personalize the appearance of their Vivio 660 Bistro.

These wheel options not only added to the car's visual appeal but also played a role in optimizing its performance characteristics, such as handling and stability. The choice of wheels allowed buyers to tailor their vehicles to their preferences, enhancing the overall ownership experience of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro.

Interior Features

The interior of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro was designed with a focus on practicality and comfort, offering several key features to enhance the driving experience for both the driver and passengers in the compact cabin.

Power Windows: Many versions of the Vivio 660 Bistro were equipped with power windows, allowing for convenient control of window operation for all passengers.

Power Steering: Power steering was a standard feature, which greatly assisted the driver in maneuvering through city traffic, making steering effort minimal and driving more comfortable.

Centralized Door Lock: The inclusion of a centralized door locking system simplified the process of locking and unlocking all doors from a single point, adding convenience and security.

Keyless Entry: Some configurations offered keyless entry, allowing drivers to unlock and start the vehicle without removing the key from their pocket or bag.

Ultraviolet Glass Protection: The presence of ultraviolet (UV) glass protection helped shield passengers from harmful UV rays while driving, enhancing comfort and protecting the interior from sun damage.

Roof Rails: Certain trim levels may have featured roof rails, providing additional cargo-carrying options for transporting items such as roof boxes or sports equipment.

Aluminum Wheels: Standard aluminum wheels contributed not only to the car's aesthetics but also to its overall performance and efficiency.

Power Steering: Power steering was typically included as a standard feature, ensuring ease of maneuverability, especially in urban driving scenarios.

These interior features, while not extensive, were carefully chosen to meet the needs of urban commuters and drivers seeking a practical and efficient vehicle. The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro was designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience within its compact confines, making it a suitable choice for navigating busy city streets.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro is characterized by its compact and streamlined appearance, which reflects its role as a nimble and efficient urban commuter.

Hatchback Body Style: The Vivio 660 Bistro featured a hatchback body style, known for its practicality and versatility. This design allowed for easy access to the cargo area, making it suitable for transporting groceries, small goods, or luggage.

Compact Dimensions: The car's exterior dimensions, including its length of approximately 329.5 cm (129.72 inches), width of around 139.5 cm (54.92 inches), and height of about 137.5 cm (54.13 inches), emphasized its compact size. These dimensions were tailored to enhance maneuverability in congested city streets and parking spaces.

Smooth and Rounded Lines: The exterior design featured smooth and rounded lines, contributing to the car's aerodynamic profile. This not only enhanced its visual appeal but also improved its efficiency by reducing air resistance.

Five-Door Configuration: With a five-door configuration, including four side doors and a rear hatch, the Vivio 660 Bistro offered convenient access to both the front and rear passenger areas, as well as the cargo compartment.

Practicality-Oriented: While not ostentatious, the exterior design of the Vivio 660 Bistro was practical and functional, aligning with its role as a cost-effective and efficient mode of urban transportation.

Color Options: Depending on the market and trim level, buyers could typically choose from a range of exterior color options to suit their preferences and tastes.

Wheel Options: Wheel options, such as standard aluminum wheels and potentially alloy wheel designs, allowed buyers to further personalize the appearance of their Vivio 660 Bistro.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's exterior design prioritized practicality and efficiency. Its compact dimensions, hatchback body style, and smooth lines contributed to its urban-friendly character, making it a suitable choice for city dwellers seeking a versatile and economical mode of transportation.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a defining feature of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro, making it an attractive option for urban commuters seeking cost-effective and environmentally conscious transportation.

The heart of the Vivio 660 Bistro is its 658cc engine with the engine code EN07. This engine is purposefully designed for efficiency, with a focus on providing adequate power while minimizing fuel consumption. The result is a car that strikes a balance between performance and economy, catering to the demands of city driving.

The car's engine delivers 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. While these figures may appear modest, they are well-suited to the Vivio 660 Bistro's urban-focused design. The engine's efficiency is further emphasized by its SOHC configuration and water cooling system.

The Vivio 660 Bistro achieves commendable fuel consumption figures in different driving modes. In the 10/15 mode, it records fuel consumption rates of 46.1 mpg in the United States, 55.3 mpg in the United Kingdom, or 5.1 L/100km. In the 60 km/h mode, it exhibits even greater efficiency, with fuel consumption figures of 61.8 mpg in the United States, 74.3 mpg in the United Kingdom, or 3.8 L/100km. These statistics reflect the car's capability to deliver exceptional fuel economy, especially in city driving conditions.

The combination of a small engine, efficient transmission, and lightweight design contributes to the Vivio 660 Bistro's ability to maximize fuel efficiency. This attribute not only reduces the cost of ownership but also aligns with the growing emphasis on eco-friendly transportation options.

In summary, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro's fuel efficiency is a standout feature, with its small-displacement engine and purposeful design delivering impressive fuel consumption figures. This characteristic makes it a practical and economical choice for urban commuters looking to reduce fuel expenses and environmental impact.

Safety Features

Safety features in the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro were designed to provide a level of protection and peace of mind to drivers and passengers, even in a compact and urban-centric vehicle.

Driver's Airbag: The Vivio 660 Bistro was equipped with a driver's airbag as a standard safety feature. This airbag was designed to deploy in the event of a frontal collision, providing added protection to the driver.

Side Impact Bar: Side impact bars were incorporated into the car's design to enhance structural integrity and passenger safety in the event of a side collision.

Central Power Window Control: The presence of central power window control allowed the driver to operate all windows from a single location, increasing driver convenience and minimizing distractions.

While these safety features were notable, it's important to recognize that the Vivio 660 Bistro was primarily designed as a city commuter and did not offer an extensive array of advanced safety technologies that are more commonly found in modern vehicles. However, the inclusion of basic safety features reflected Subaru's commitment to providing a certain level of protection for occupants in various driving scenarios.

Drivers and passengers could rely on these features to enhance their safety during daily urban commutes. Additionally, responsible driving practices and adherence to traffic regulations remained essential components of ensuring a safe driving experience in the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro.

Conclusion and Overall Summary

The 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro embodies the essence of a compact and efficient urban commuter, tailor-made to navigate the challenges of city driving. Within its limited production window, this kei car managed to leave an indelible mark with its thoughtful design, practicality, and emphasis on fuel efficiency.

In terms of dimensions, the Vivio 660 Bistro strikes a balance between compactness and functionality. Its exterior dimensions make it ideal for maneuvering through crowded streets, while the interior offers comfortable seating for four passengers. The inclusion of practical features like power windows, power steering, and centralized door locking adds convenience to daily commutes.

Under the hood, the EN07 engine with its modest yet purposeful power output and exceptional fuel efficiency reinforces the car's role as a city-centric vehicle. Its ability to achieve impressive fuel consumption figures in various driving modes makes it a cost-effective choice for urban dwellers.

Safety features, including a driver's airbag and side impact bars, contribute to occupant protection, even in a compact vehicle. While not offering an extensive array of advanced safety technologies, these features reflect Subaru's commitment to safety in its vehicles.

The exterior design of the Vivio 660 Bistro showcases a streamlined and aerodynamic profile, highlighting its urban-friendly nature. Wheel options and roof rails add to its visual appeal and practicality.

In conclusion, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro is a testament to Subaru's ingenuity in designing a kei car that excels in city driving conditions. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, practical features, and safety considerations make it a reliable and economical choice for those seeking a cost-effective and environmentally conscious mode of urban transportation.

Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro FAQ: Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered