In the Attic named Pleiades

In this column, we pick up old materials and documents from the Subaru archives in order to give a taste of the atmosphere of the past and show how cars were presented to the public in those days. Here, we introduce the article entitled “Hotline” from the July 1972 edition of “Cartopia.” Incidentally, this was the first edition of Cartopia and it coincided with the launch of the Rex.









Birth of the Subaru Rex!
Here’s a brand new car that is hot and fresh!

Its name is Rex, which means “king” in Latin. In the sense that this embodies the Subaru spirit of Fuji Heavy Industries, it certainly takes the royal road for light cars, and its bold lines and daringly cut style give it a regal appearance.

When it comes to car styling, there is a wide spectrum of views and opinions (this is an area of preferences, although recently it is trendier to say disparities in feeling). Even so, the Rex has a pretty good feel. Particular features are its wide tread and low height. Although the wedge shape itself is not all that original, the solid low proportions and side style are quite elegant.

The sloping cut of the rear window is also innovative. Totally removed from the cliff cut of the past, this is probably the only car in the world where the rear window glass itself curves backwards like a steep peak. (This sloping cut has not been adopted simply for the cool look and innovation. Thanks to this cut, the roof can be pulled rearward, thereby allowing head clearance to be secured for rear seat passengers. This is another example of wonderful fusion between the Subaru spirit of rationality and excellent car design).

This Subaru pursuit of functionality can be seen all over the Rex. The concave dashboard protruding on the passenger seat side has been designed with passenger safety in mind, while the new door inner lock mechanism has been designed in consideration of operability and safety. (For brand new light car, it may be natural to expect the luxurious car interior and excellent fittings of a compact car, but it is fun reclining in the deep seats and trying the various devices).

The Water-cooled two-stroke engine comes in three types, namely 32ps, 35ps (TS) and 37ps (GSR). Beginning with the top of the range Custom L, there are eight versions of the car.

(Extract from the Cartopia, issued in July 1972)




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