Two years after the “Subaru” Magazine article we introduced last week came out, in October 1971, the new R-2 series was launched with two engine types, i.e. the air-cooled 360 cc and water-cooled 360 cc. Immediately after that in November, “Subaru” Magazine Vol. 67 (November 1971) ran a feature introducing the new R-2 series, using the same Q&A style that was used in Vol. 54.* The magazine ran two features, the first of which was about the Leone Series that was launched at the same time. Some excerpts from the four-page feature are shown below. Please enjoy these contents and the pictures that were shown with the article.

Feature Article: “Thorough Dissection of the New R-2 Series”*





Sharp Front Style

Q First I would like to talk about the air-cooled series. The first thing one notices is that the front image has undergone great change. It seems a lot more rugged, but specifically what and how have you changed it?

A First, we have carried out a full change of the exterior and interior appearance and fittings. Externally, the front area has been made more linear and sharp in appearance. The original R-2 was more graceful and feminine, however, this time we have added a more vibrant feel that we think will appeal to active young people.

Q Could you be more specific?

A To start with, we have straight cut the end of the front hood; then we have fitted a separate type large front grille that surrounds the headlights. Since this front grille has a zebra pattern, we call it the zebra mask front grille. These are the most noticeable points. In addition, we have enhanced the bold appearance through fitting a new design front ornament in the middle of the front mask, adopting a square shaped large front turn signal lamp, and adding a bulge in the center of the front hood and so on.

Q It also has a rear garnish that draws in the hip line. I have always liked the rear style, but this modification makes it even smarter.

A Thank you.


(~Omitted~)









Sports Type GSS

Q By the way, I see that GSS has been added to the air-cooled series. Are the horse power and torque very different from the sedan?

A As the name “grand sports sedan” suggests, the GSS has greater horsepower than an ordinary sedan – 36 ps/7000 rpm as opposed to 32 ps/6500 rpm to be exact. The torque is the same at 3.8kg/m, however, the engine rpm for this torque has been increased from 5000 rpm to 6400 rpm. In addition, it has excellent cooling effect, hard chrome plating that can comfortably handle continuous high-speed driving, a full-fledged solex type 36 PH twin choke carburetor with good air suction efficiency, high-speed cylinder timing and high compression ratio of 7.5, GSS dedicated diffuser muffler and manifold, etc.

Q Have you strengthened the suspension to match with the performance?

A Of course. We have adopted torsion bar type stabilizers to reduce chassis tilting when shock or major load is imparted to one of the wheels, and we have also adopted reinforced shock absorbers to provide sturdy suspension. Therefore, through adopting high performance but also balanced suspension, it is possible to generate excellent performance even at high speeds. Moreover, because the engine has good bite, this is a driver-friendly sports car.

Q With low height and front nose fin, cannonball mirrors and side double stripes, etc., it is certainly a sporty design, but how does it differ from the previous SS?

A Performance is the same level but fittings have been upgraded. In other words, performance is SS but fittings are GL. Of course, the tachometer and the small diameter steering wheel with two wood type spokes are sports car specifications.


(The above contents were excerpted from “Subaru Vol. 67.” To be continued next week.)



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