Highlights

Rare and factory-correct original Kei car
Imported from Arizona in 2018 and fully restored in 2020
Only 24,000 miles on original engine
One registered UK keeper since arrival
Carefully retrimmed interior to factory specification
Eye-catching show car in great condition

The Appeal

When Japan announced new car tax rules in the late 60s, it gave birth to the ‘keijhidosha’ cars - or Kei for short. These models have a massive following, and it all began with this car - the Subaru 360.

Modelled, sort of, on Fiat’s recently launched Nuova 500, the tiny 360 had a matching rear-engined layout, equally curvy bodywork and a similarly Tardis-like interior. It may be hard to believe that Subaru went, in a few short years, from that car to the Impreza. It’s equally remarkable that the firm hoped to sell this tiny 25hp runaround in America.

That is where this car began its life, enjoying the cossetting Arizona sun before arriving in the UK in 2018. It has been with the current keeper ever since, enjoying an extensive renovation in 2020 that delivers the condition you see today.

The renovation was careful to replicate the factory specification - the checkered burgundy interior is a particular delight. The repainted white paintwork and smart whitewalls mix with well kept chromework outside.

The car has been reserved for show use to preserve the low 24,000 miles from new. It is ready for similar activity but we are told will need a service and check over if your plans are to drive it on the road.

The History and Paperwork

First registered in 1968
Originally registered in the USA
Imported from Arizona in 2018
UK registered 1st November 2018
One registered UK keeper
We are told that the displayed mileage of 24,130 miles is correct
Fully restored in 2020
Kept in a showroom since restoration
Vendor tells us that this is a collector's car, not intended for everyday use
V5C in vendor’s name showing it is registered as a Historic Vehicle
1 key as shown
Arizona certificate of title
Lots of history as shown in photos
Factory handbook
Photographs of the restoration process
Last MOT expired in October 2022 with 24,130 miles on test
Still showing 24,130 miles in photos

The Condition

Restored in 2020 with priority placed on originality
Exterior is said by seller to be rust-free
We are told the car has been fully repainted inside and out
White paintwork presents well with only very minor points to note in photos
Contrasting burgundy roof in good order as shown with matching wheels
These include some light scuffs to front boot slam panel as shown
Chromework is complete and presents well in photos as shown
Recently fitted with new weather strips
Some of the B F Goodrich tyres show signs of age and cracking
Original chrome hub caps with some marks
Interior fully upholstered to match the original fabric pattern as closely as possible
Original leather-covered steering wheel
Factory badging and original information stickers
Interior switchgear is well kept and retains its white decals as shown
Fitted with matching colour seatbelts front and rear
Floor lining appears in smart condition
No reported electrical, dial or lighting issues

The Mechanics

359cc 2cyl 25hp engine
4spd manual gearbox
Vendor tells us the car is matching numbers
Only 24,000 miles according to seller
Stored without brake and oil fluids for show use only
Car will need servicing before being driven
No reported running or driving issues except as noted above

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..