1997 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 39.2 mpg US - 47 mpg UK - 6.0 L/100km, a weight of 1631 lbs (740 kg), the Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA has a water cooling 4 cylinder DOHC16 valve supercharger engine, a High octane premium gasoline engine EN07. This engine EN07 produces a maximum power of 64.8 PS (64 bhp - 47.7 kW) at 7200 rpm and a maximum torque of 105.9 Nm (78.1 lb.ft - 10.8 kg.m) at 3600 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the four wheel drive (4WD) with a 5MT gearbox. For stopping power, the Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Chassis details - Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA has dual link strut coil spring rear suspension and L type lower arm strut coil spring front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 18, 2024

Introduction

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" is a notable entry from Subaru within the compact car segment during the specified production years. Designed as a hatchback, the RX-RA offered a practical and agile driving experience. With its compact dimensions, it was well-suited for urban environments and narrow streets.

This particular model was characterized by its 4WD drivetrain, enhancing traction and stability on various road surfaces. The inclusion of a 5-speed manual transmission contributed to the engaging driving dynamics of the RX-RA. The compact body, framed under E-KK4, further emphasized its maneuverability.

Under the hood, the RX-RA housed a 658 cm3 engine, known by the code "EN07." This engine was coupled with a supercharger, contributing to the performance output. The engine's output of 64.8 PS allowed for peppy acceleration, while the maximum torque of 105.9 Nm provided adequate power for a variety of driving situations.

The interior of the RX-RA was designed with practicality in mind, accommodating up to four passengers. With its relatively compact interior dimensions, it prioritized efficient space usage without sacrificing comfort. Power windows and power steering were included as standard features, adding to the convenience of the driving experience.

Safety features were also integrated, with side impact bars being part of the standard configuration. Notably, the RX-RA came with the option for a driver's airbag, contributing to occupant safety in case of a collision. Additionally, standart front and rear stabilizers further enhanced the vehicle's stability during cornering and maneuvering.

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" embodied Subaru's commitment to producing compact vehicles that offered a blend of practicality and performance. Its compact size, all-wheel drive capability, and efficient engine made it a versatile choice for urban commuters and those looking for an agile driving experience. With its distinctive features and design elements, the RX-RA made its mark in the automotive landscape of its time.

Model Years

During the span of September 1997 to September 1998, Subaru introduced the "660 RX-RA" model of the Vivio series. This particular iteration showcased Subaru's dedication to producing compact vehicles that catered to various driving needs. The 660 RX-RA was designed to provide a balance between practicality and performance, making it a notable option within its segment.

Characterized by its compact hatchback design, the 660 RX-RA was well-suited for urban environments and tight parking spaces. Its smaller dimensions contributed to its agility, allowing for easy maneuverability through congested streets. This model incorporated Subaru's 4WD system, enhancing traction and stability across different road conditions.

Under the hood, the 660 RX-RA housed the EN07 engine, which featured a supercharger to augment its power delivery. This engine option, combined with a 5-speed manual transmission, provided drivers with a responsive and engaging driving experience. The model's compact size and lightweight build further contributed to its dynamic performance.

The 1997-1998 model years of the Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA demonstrated Subaru's commitment to innovation and versatility within the compact car market. Its combination of compact dimensions, all-wheel drive capability, and efficient engine design made it a practical choice for urban commuters and those seeking a car that could effortlessly navigate city streets while still delivering a spirited drive.

Trim Levels

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" was offered in a single trim level during its production years. This trim level was carefully crafted to provide a well-balanced blend of features and performance attributes, catering to drivers seeking both practicality and driving enjoyment.

Standardizing its features allowed Subaru to focus on delivering a cohesive and efficient package. With its compact dimensions and 4WD drivetrain, the 660 RX-RA was designed to navigate a variety of road conditions while maintaining optimal traction and stability.

The interior of this trim level emphasized functionality and convenience. Basic features like power windows and power steering were included as standard, contributing to the ease of use during daily commutes. The inclusion of the 5-speed manual transmission provided drivers with a hands-on driving experience, further aligning with the model's spirited nature.

The single trim option offered the EN07 engine with a supercharger, ensuring that every vehicle delivered a consistent level of performance. This harmonious approach allowed Subaru to deliver a well-rounded driving experience that encompassed both city driving and open-road journeys.

By offering a single trim level for the 1997-1998 Vivio 660 RX-RA, Subaru aimed to simplify the decision-making process for potential buyers while still providing a vehicle that encapsulated the brand's commitment to quality, innovation, and practicality within the compact car segment.

Generations

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" marked a specific period within the Vivio lineup, showcasing Subaru's commitment to creating compact vehicles that suited the needs of urban and practical driving. This iteration did not represent a new generation, but rather a continuation of the Vivio's legacy with refinements and enhancements.

Building upon the characteristics of its predecessors, the 1997-1998 Vivio 660 RX-RA retained its compact dimensions and hatchback design. This design philosophy emphasized maneuverability and efficiency, catering to drivers seeking a car that could easily navigate congested city streets and tight parking spaces.

Technological advancements were integrated into this generation to ensure that the model remained competitive and up-to-date. While the core design elements remained consistent, Subaru introduced improvements to the drivetrain, engine performance, and safety features, aligning the Vivio 660 RX-RA with contemporary expectations.

Subaru's decision to maintain the same generation for the 1997-1998 model years was a strategic one, allowing them to further refine the already successful formula of the Vivio series. By building upon the strengths of the previous iterations, the 1997-1998 Vivio 660 RX-RA continued to embody Subaru's dedication to producing compact cars that seamlessly combined practicality, performance, and innovation.

Engine Types

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" was equipped with a distinctive engine that underscored its performance capabilities and efficient design. At the heart of this model was the EN07 engine, known for its technical prowess and contributions to the overall driving experience.

The EN07 engine was designed with a focus on compactness and power delivery. It featured water cooling, which ensured that the engine remained within optimal temperature ranges even during demanding driving conditions. The engine's configuration included four cylinders arranged in a DOHC16 valve layout, promoting efficient air and fuel intake and exhaust.

One of the standout features of the EN07 engine was the inclusion of a supercharger. This forced induction system provided an extra boost of air to the engine, enhancing its power output and responsiveness. The result was an engine that could deliver a maximum power of 64.8 PS, translating to energetic acceleration and a spirited driving experience.

Additionally, the engine's torque output of 105.9 Nm contributed to the model's ability to navigate various road conditions. The torque was available at lower RPMs, ensuring that the vehicle could swiftly respond to driver inputs and offer a dynamic performance across different speeds.

The EN07 engine was optimized for efficiency as well, offering favorable fuel consumption figures in both urban and highway driving scenarios. With its focus on power, responsiveness, and economical operation, the engine encapsulated Subaru's commitment to producing vehicles that met the diverse needs of drivers while prioritizing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

Engine Performance

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" excelled in delivering a compelling engine performance that blended power, responsiveness, and efficiency. This performance was primarily attributed to the model's EN07 engine, which was thoughtfully engineered to provide a dynamic driving experience.

The engine's compact design and layout allowed it to efficiently deliver power to the wheels. The four-cylinder configuration with a DOHC16 valve arrangement promoted efficient intake and exhaust processes, enabling the engine to breathe optimally for power generation. The inclusion of a supercharger added an extra layer of performance enhancement, offering an immediate and responsive acceleration response.

The maximum power output of 64.8 PS provided the 660 RX-RA with spirited acceleration, making it well-suited for both urban driving and open roads. This power, combined with the torque output of 105.9 Nm, ensured that the model maintained agility and responsiveness across different driving scenarios.

The engine's performance wasn't just about power, however. Subaru's focus on efficiency was evident in the EN07 engine's fuel consumption figures. With favorable fuel consumption rates, the 660 RX-RA managed to strike a balance between delivering an engaging driving experience and offering economical fuel usage.

Overall, the engine performance of the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA showcased a harmonious fusion of power, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency. This performance-oriented approach contributed to the model's appeal among drivers seeking a compact car that delivered both on the road and at the fuel pump.

Fuel Efficiency

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" was engineered with a strong emphasis on fuel efficiency, aligning with the demands of practical driving and economic operation. This focus on efficient fuel consumption was not only an environmental consideration but also an advantage for drivers looking to save on fuel costs.

The EN07 engine, a central component of the 660 RX-RA's design, played a pivotal role in achieving commendable fuel efficiency figures. The incorporation of a supercharger into the engine's configuration contributed to the model's ability to strike a balance between power output and fuel consumption.

In city driving conditions, the Vivio 660 RX-RA demonstrated its frugality with fuel, offering competitive consumption rates. This made it an ideal option for daily commutes, as it could navigate congested streets while keeping fuel usage at a reasonable level.

Even at higher speeds and on highways, the vehicle maintained an impressive level of efficiency. The engine's design, combined with the model's compact dimensions, contributed to reduced aerodynamic drag and enhanced fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.

Overall, the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA's commitment to fuel efficiency showcased its versatility as a vehicle that could deliver both performance and economy. This focus on efficient fuel consumption made it an appealing choice for drivers who wanted to experience an engaging drive without compromising on environmental responsibility or the need to frequently refuel.

Dimensions and Sizes

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" exhibited a compact yet practical design, reflecting its intended role as an agile city car. The dimensions and sizes of the RX-RA were carefully tailored to ensure maneuverability while providing adequate interior space for passengers.

The exterior dimensions of the Vivio 660 RX-RA contributed to its ease of navigation through urban landscapes. With an exterior length of 329.5 cm, width of 139.5 cm, and height of 137.5 cm, the RX-RA maintained a small footprint, making it well-suited for navigating tight streets and parking spaces.

Inside the cabin, the dimensions were similarly designed for efficiency and comfort. The interior length of 169.5 cm, width of 119.5 cm, and height of 114.5 cm provided enough room for four passengers without sacrificing the compact nature of the vehicle. The emphasis on interior dimensions allowed for a comfortable seating arrangement without compromising the RX-RA's maneuverability.

The wheelbase, measuring 231 cm, played a significant role in the model's stability and handling. This dimension contributed to a smooth ride and predictable handling characteristics, ensuring that the vehicle remained composed even during cornering and sudden maneuvers.

With a ride height of 15 cm, the RX-RA struck a balance between ground clearance and stability. This height allowed the model to navigate various road conditions without compromising its overall stability and performance.

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" effectively demonstrated how well-engineered dimensions could result in a compact car that delivered practicality without sacrificing comfort and maneuverability. The carefully considered measurements contributed to the model's suitability for urban driving while ensuring a satisfying driving experience for both passengers and the driver.

Wheel Specifications

The wheel specifications of the "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" contributed to its overall performance and handling characteristics. Careful attention was given to the size and configuration of the wheels to ensure a balance between comfort, stability, and responsiveness.

The RX-RA was equipped with wheels that featured dimensions of 155 / 65 R13. These specifications indicated the tire width, aspect ratio, and diameter. The choice of these dimensions was aimed at delivering a blend of comfortable ride quality and predictable handling. The tire width and aspect ratio contributed to adequate traction and grip on different road surfaces, while the 13-inch diameter maintained a balance between wheel size and tire sidewall height.

These wheel specifications were carefully matched with the RX-RA's suspension system, which included an L-type lower arm strut coil spring setup for the front suspension and a dual-link strut coil spring arrangement for the rear suspension. The combination of the wheel specifications and suspension system contributed to a well-balanced ride quality, responsive handling, and stable cornering behavior.

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" demonstrated how the selection of appropriate wheel specifications could enhance the overall driving experience. By carefully matching tire dimensions with the suspension setup, Subaru ensured that the RX-RA offered a comfortable ride, predictable handling, and a level of stability that aligned with the model's intended urban and practical driving environment.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" was designed with a practical approach to fuel capacity, aligning with its intended role as an efficient city car. The fuel tank capacity of this model allowed for an optimal balance between extended driving range and the compact dimensions of the vehicle.

The RX-RA featured a fuel tank with a capacity of 8.4 US gallons or 7 UK gallons (32 liters). This capacity was well-suited for urban driving scenarios, allowing drivers to cover substantial distances without the need for frequent refueling. The combination of the engine's efficient design and the vehicle's compact size further contributed to economical fuel usage, ensuring that the model could navigate city streets without excessive fuel consumption.

The carefully chosen fuel tank capacity of the "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" was a reflection of Subaru's commitment to practicality and efficiency. By providing an adequate fuel storage capacity, the model catered to the needs of urban commuters and those seeking a car that combined convenience with economical operation. This thoughtful approach to fuel capacity complemented the vehicle's overall design, making it a suitable option for drivers who valued both performance and efficiency.

Fuel Consumption

The "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" excelled in delivering impressive fuel efficiency, aligning with its purpose as a practical and economical choice for drivers. The model's fuel consumption figures highlighted its ability to cover distances while conserving fuel, making it an ideal option for both city driving and longer journeys.

In the standardized 10/15 mode fuel consumption test, the RX-RA exhibited an impressive fuel efficiency rate of 39.2 mpg (US), 47 mpg (UK), or 6.0 L/100km. This figure demonstrated the model's capacity to navigate urban environments efficiently, requiring minimal fuel consumption for everyday commutes.

Even at higher speeds and during sustained highway driving, the "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" maintained its economical performance. In the 60 km/h mode, the fuel consumption improved further, achieving figures of 60.3 mpg (US), 72.4 mpg (UK), or 3.9 L/100km. This level of efficiency underscored the model's suitability for extended journeys, as it offered a remarkable balance between performance and fuel conservation.

The RX-RA's fuel consumption figures showcased Subaru's commitment to producing vehicles that not only delivered a satisfying driving experience but also contributed to reducing the ecological footprint. By prioritizing fuel efficiency without compromising performance, the 1997-1998 Vivio 660 RX-RA offered drivers an economical and environmentally conscious option within the compact car segment.

Conclusion

In the realm of compact vehicles, the "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" stands as a testament to Subaru's dedication to crafting cars that harmoniously combine practicality, performance, and efficiency. Through its thoughtful design and engineering, the RX-RA encapsulated the needs of urban drivers seeking agility, fuel efficiency, and an engaging driving experience.

From its compact exterior dimensions to its spacious yet efficient interior layout, the RX-RA demonstrated an adept balance between accommodating passengers and navigating congested city streets. The inclusion of a 4WD drivetrain and a 5-speed manual transmission added to its versatility, enhancing traction and engaging driving dynamics.

The heart of the RX-RA, the EN07 engine with a supercharger, defined its performance. With a power output of 64.8 PS and torque of 105.9 Nm, this model exhibited spirited acceleration and responsiveness, ensuring a lively drive. Furthermore, the engine's efficient design translated to impressive fuel consumption figures, reflecting Subaru's commitment to economical operation.

In the end, the "1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA" showcased Subaru's knack for engineering vehicles that resonate with practical drivers. With a focus on fuel efficiency, performance, and thoughtful design, the RX-RA left an enduring mark within its segment, serving as a testament to Subaru's unwavering pursuit of creating vehicles that fulfill the diverse needs of drivers while emphasizing a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.

FAQ: Common Queries About the 1997-1998 Subaru Vivio 660 RX-RA