1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro chiffon Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 44.3 mpg US - 53.2 mpg UK - 5.3 L/100km, a weight of 1631 lbs (740 kg), the Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro chiffon 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 four wheel drive (4WD) with a ECVT gearbox. For stopping power, the Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro chiffon braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Disk at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro chiffon 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 24, 2024

Introduction to the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon, introduced during October of that year, was a distinctive addition to Subaru's lineup. This compact hatchback car came equipped with a 4WD drivetrain, making it well-suited for various road conditions. With its compact body type, it was designed to be maneuverable and practical, ideal for urban settings.

Under the hood, the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon housed a 658 cm³ engine, denoted by the engine code EN07. This 4-cylinder SOHC engine delivered a respectable power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm and a torque of 54.9 Nm at 4000 rpm. It ran on regular gasoline, making it relatively economical for daily use.

In terms of dimensions and size, the exterior of the Vivio measured approximately 329.5 cm in length, 139.5 cm in width, and 138.5 cm in height. The interior offered a comfortable space with dimensions of 169.5 cm in length, 119.5 cm in width, and 114.5 cm in height. It had a wheelbase of 231 cm and a ground clearance of 16 cm. With a weight of 740 kg, it provided a nimble and agile driving experience, further enhanced by its 3-door configuration.

The car was designed to accommodate up to four passengers, making it a practical choice for small families or couples. It featured a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) gearbox, which contributed to a smooth and efficient driving experience.

In terms of fuel capacity, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon offered an 8.4 US-gallon tank (equivalent to 7 UK gallons or 32 liters), ensuring you could cover significant distances between refueling stops. Fuel consumption was also impressive, with a fuel efficiency of 44.3 mpg (US) in the 10/15 mode and 56 mpg (US) in the 60 km/h mode.

Overall, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon combined compact dimensions, capable 4WD traction, and efficient fuel usage, making it a practical choice for urban and suburban driving needs. With its distinctive design and versatile features, it remained a notable member of Subaru's automotive offerings for that year.

Engine Specifications of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon

The heart of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon lies beneath its compact exterior, where an engine designed for efficiency and performance awaits. This particular model was equipped with a 658 cm³ engine, identified by the engine code EN07. This water-cooled 4-cylinder SOHC engine was engineered to provide a balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Generating a maximum power output of 48.6 PS (48 bhp) at 6400 rpm, the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon offered adequate performance for its size. Its torque output was equally respectable, delivering 54.9 Nm (40.5 lb.ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. This provided ample low-end torque for city driving while maintaining efficiency on the highway.

Fueling the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was regular gasoline, making it convenient to refuel at most gas stations. The engine's design and tuning contributed to impressive fuel efficiency figures. It offered a fuel consumption rate of 44.3 mpg (US) in the 10/15 mode and an even more economical 56 mpg (US) in the 60 km/h mode, ensuring that owners could enjoy cost-effective driving without compromising on performance.

This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (ECVT), enhancing the overall driving experience by providing smooth and seamless gear changes. Whether navigating busy city streets or cruising on the highway, the transmission and engine combination offered a balanced and enjoyable ride.

In summary, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon's engine specifications highlighted its focus on efficiency and performance. With its compact size and well-tuned powerplant, it catered to drivers seeking a nimble and economical urban driving experience.

Dimensions and Sizes of the Vehicle

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon featured compact dimensions and sizes that made it ideal for urban commuting and navigating through tight city streets. This hatchback's design prioritized practicality while maximizing interior space.

On the outside, the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon measured approximately 329.5 cm (129.72 inches) in length, 139.5 cm (54.92 inches) in width, and 138.5 cm (54.52 inches) in height. These compact exterior dimensions made it easy to park and maneuver in crowded urban environments.

Inside the cabin, the vehicle offered a comfortable space for passengers with an interior length of around 169.5 cm (66.73 inches), an interior width of about 119.5 cm (47.04 inches), and an interior height of approximately 114.5 cm (45.07 inches). Despite its compact size, the interior design aimed to maximize passenger comfort and usability.

The car's wheelbase, measuring 231 cm (90.94 inches), contributed to stability on the road and ensured a smoother ride. The Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon also had a ground clearance of 16 cm (6.29 inches), which struck a balance between comfortable urban driving and handling rougher road conditions.

With a weight of 740 kg (1631 lbs), this Subaru model was relatively lightweight, enhancing its agility and fuel efficiency. It featured a 3-door configuration, making it easy for passengers to access both the front and rear seats.

The vehicle could comfortably seat up to four passengers, making it a practical choice for small families or couples. The combination of its compact exterior dimensions and thoughtful interior design allowed the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon to excel in urban settings, providing a versatile and convenient driving experience.

Fuel Tank Capacity of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was designed with practicality in mind, and one of the essential aspects of any vehicle's usability is its fuel tank capacity. This model featured a fuel tank with a capacity of 8.4 US gallons (approximately 7 UK gallons or 32 liters).

With this fuel tank capacity, the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon provided drivers with a reasonable range between refueling stops, especially considering its compact size and fuel-efficient engine. The ability to cover a significant distance on a single tank of fuel was advantageous for city commuters and those who preferred longer journeys without frequent refueling interruptions.

This generous fuel tank capacity, combined with the car's economical fuel consumption figures, contributed to the convenience and practicality of the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon. Whether used for daily urban commuting or weekend getaways, the vehicle's fuel tank ensured that drivers could enjoy extended drives with fewer stops at the fuel pump.

Fuel Consumption and MPG (Miles Per Gallon)

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon prioritized fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for drivers conscious of their fuel consumption. With its compact size and well-tuned engine, this Subaru model offered impressive fuel economy.

In the 10/15 mode, which simulated a combination of urban and suburban driving conditions, the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon achieved a fuel consumption rate of 44.3 miles per gallon (mpg) in the United States or 53.2 mpg in the UK. This mode represented real-world scenarios, where stop-and-go traffic and varied speeds were common.

For highway driving at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37 mph), the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon delivered even better fuel efficiency, averaging 56 mpg in the US or 67.2 mpg in the UK. This impressive figure highlighted its capability to cover long distances on a minimal amount of fuel.

These fuel consumption figures reflected the car's efficient design and engineering, ensuring that owners could enjoy cost-effective driving without compromising on performance. The combination of a compact and lightweight body, a well-tuned engine, and aerodynamic design contributed to the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon's reputation as an economical and environmentally friendly choice for urban and highway driving alike.

Wheel Details for the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was equipped with wheels designed to complement its compact size and provide a balance between maneuverability and stability. The wheel details for this model were as follows:

Tire Size: The Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon came fitted with tires sized at 155/70 R12. This specification indicated the tire's width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter, offering a good blend of comfort and road grip suitable for city driving.

Wheel Design: Standard aluminum disks were featured on this model. These aluminum wheels not only enhanced the vehicle's aesthetics but also contributed to improved handling and fuel efficiency due to their lightweight nature.

These wheel specifications were carefully chosen to ensure that the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon provided a comfortable and stable ride, especially in urban environments where precise handling and agility were crucial. The combination of well-matched tires and lightweight aluminum wheels contributed to a balanced driving experience for owners of this Subaru model.

Interior and Exterior Features

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was designed with a focus on practicality and functionality, both in its interior and exterior features.

Interior Features:
- Power Window: The Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was equipped with power windows, offering convenience for adjusting windows with ease.
- Power Steering: Power steering was a standard feature, enhancing maneuverability and ease of handling, especially in tight urban spaces.
- Centralized Door Lock: The car featured centralized door locking, providing added security and ease of locking and unlocking all doors simultaneously.
- Keyless Entry: Keyless entry was a convenient feature, allowing for easy access to the vehicle without manually inserting a key.
- Wood Panel: Wood panel accents added a touch of elegance to the interior, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
- Right Hand Drive: The vehicle was designed for right-hand drive, making it suitable for markets where this configuration is standard.

Exterior Features:
- Sunroof: The Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon did not include a sunroof, keeping its design simple and sleek.
- Tilt Sunroof: This model did not feature a tilt sunroof.
- Twin Sunroof: Twin sunroofs were not part of the exterior design.
- Front Spoiler: The car did not have a front spoiler as a standard feature.
- Rear Spoiler: Rear spoiler options were not included.
- Power Adjustable Door Mirrors: Power-adjustable door mirrors were provided for added convenience.
- Xenon Lamps: Xenon lamps were not available.
- Front Fog Lamps: Front fog lamps were not part of the standard features.
- Rear Fog Lamps: Rear fog lamps were not included.
- Cornering Lamps: The vehicle did not have cornering lamps.
- Ultraviolet Glass Protection: Ultraviolet glass protection was not featured.
- Roof Rail: The Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon did not have roof rails.

Overall, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon prioritized essential interior features for convenience and a clean exterior design, making it a practical choice for urban driving.

Trim Levels and Variants Available

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was offered with a range of trim levels and variants to cater to different customer preferences and needs. These trim levels provided various combinations of features and options:

1. Standard Trim: The base trim of the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon offered essential features, including power windows, power steering, centralized door locking, keyless entry, and wood panel accents. It was a practical choice for drivers seeking a straightforward and economical vehicle for daily commuting.

2. Custom Trim: The custom trim level may have included additional features or customization options, such as interior upholstery choices or cosmetic enhancements. This trim aimed to offer a more personalized driving experience for those who sought a touch of uniqueness.

3. Limited Editions: Subaru occasionally released limited edition models with unique features, color options, or exclusive accessories. These limited editions aimed to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts looking for a distinctive version of the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon.

4. Optional Packages: Subaru may have offered optional packages that allowed customers to add specific features or upgrades to their vehicle, such as premium audio systems, alloy wheels, or additional safety features. These packages provided flexibility in tailoring the car to individual preferences.

The availability of trim levels and variants may have varied by market and dealership. Customers could choose the one that best suited their preferences, budget, and desired level of features. Whether seeking a basic and economical daily driver or a more customized and unique vehicle, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon offered options to cater to a range of tastes and requirements.

Generational Changes and Updates

The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon represented a specific generation of the Subaru Vivio model, and during its production year, it may have incorporated various changes and updates to enhance its features and performance. While there may not have been significant generational changes within a single year, Subaru typically made continuous improvements to its models. Here are some aspects that might have seen updates during the 1996 model year:

1. Safety Features: Subaru may have updated safety features such as airbags or side-impact protection to meet evolving safety standards. These enhancements aimed to improve occupant safety in the event of an accident.

2. Technology: The 1996 model year could have seen updates to in-car technology, including audio systems, infotainment, and connectivity options, to keep the vehicle up-to-date with the latest advancements.

3. Exterior Styling: Automakers often make subtle changes to exterior styling, including modifications to headlights, grilles, and bumpers, to refresh the vehicle's appearance and keep it in line with contemporary design trends.

4. Interior Comfort: Improvements in interior materials, seat design, and cabin ergonomics may have been introduced to enhance passenger comfort and overall driving experience.

5. Engine Efficiency: Subaru might have implemented engine tweaks or adjustments to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, aligning with environmental regulations and customer demands.

6. Suspension and Handling: Updates to the suspension and chassis components may have been made to improve ride comfort, handling, and overall driving dynamics.

7. Trim Levels and Options: Subaru could have introduced new trim levels or options to provide customers with more choices in terms of features and customization.

It's essential to note that these updates would have been in line with Subaru's commitment to delivering reliable and practical vehicles while staying competitive in the automotive market. These incremental changes aimed to ensure that the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon remained a relevant and attractive option for potential buyers during its production year.

Conclusion: The 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon in Review

In review, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon was a compact and practical hatchback that offered a well-rounded package for urban drivers. With its focus on efficiency, this Subaru model provided a balanced combination of features and specifications.

The vehicle's compact dimensions made it exceptionally maneuverable, ideal for navigating through city streets and parking in tight spaces. Its lightweight build contributed to fuel efficiency, allowing drivers to cover long distances on a single tank of fuel.

Under the hood, the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon featured a 658 cm³ engine that delivered adequate power for urban commuting while maintaining economical fuel consumption figures. The continuously variable transmission (ECVT) further improved the driving experience by providing smooth and seamless gear changes.

Inside, the car offered essential features like power windows, power steering, centralized door locking, and keyless entry for convenience. The wood panel accents added a touch of sophistication to the interior.

The vehicle's safety features included a driver's airbag and side-impact bars, which provided a reasonable level of protection for occupants. The right-hand drive configuration made it suitable for markets where this setup was standard.

While the Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon may not have had advanced technological features or a long list of optional extras, it excelled in its primary purpose – providing an efficient and practical means of transportation for daily commuting and urban driving.

Overall, the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon stood as a testament to Subaru's commitment to delivering reliable and economical vehicles tailored to the needs of urban dwellers. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and straightforward features made it a noteworthy option in its segment during its production year.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1996 Subaru Vivio 660 Bistro Chiffon