1984 Subaru Justy I (KAD) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1984 Subaru Justy I (KAD) ranges between 750 and 860 kilograms (1653 to 1896 pounds), depending on specific trim and equipment. Its maximum gross vehicle weight is between 1250 and 1350 kilograms (2756 to 2976 pounds). This relatively low weight contributes to the car's fuel efficiency and nimble handling characteristics.

The Subaru Justy I (KAD) offers a luggage capacity of approximately 158 to 160 liters (5.6 to 5.7 cubic feet) when the rear seats are up, which suits everyday small cargo needs. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity expands significantly to around 980 to 1000 liters (34.6 to 35.3 cubic feet), allowing the Justy to accommodate larger items or increased cargo volumes, enhancing its versatility as a hatchback.

Yes, the Subaru Justy I (KAD) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its compact length of 3695 mm (145.5 inches) and width of 1535 mm (60.4 inches), it uses less space than many larger vehicles. Typical garage spaces are around 2400-3000 mm (94-118 inches) wide and 5400-6000 mm (213-236 inches) long, so the Justy allows ample room for opening doors and maneuvering inside the garage without difficulty.

At 1535 mm (60.4 inches) wide, the Subaru Justy I (KAD) was notably narrower than many contemporary compact hatchbacks, which often exceeded 1600 mm (63 inches) in width. This narrower stance contributed to its excellent maneuverability and ease of driving on narrow urban streets and tight parking spaces but also meant a more compact cabin interior when compared to broader competitors.

The Subaru Justy I (KAD) was equipped with tire sizes 145/80 R12 S and 165/65 R13 S, depending on the model version. The smaller 12-inch wheels with higher profile tires generally offered a softer ride and better absorption of road imperfections, making city driving comfortable. The 13-inch tires with a lower profile improved handling and cornering stability at the expense of a slightly firmer ride.

The 1984 Subaru Justy I (KAD) was the first generation of this model, replacing the Subaru Rex and other smaller Kei cars in Subaru's lineup. Compared to its predecessors, the Justy was larger, notably in length and interior space, targeting a broader market for subcompact hatchbacks rather than strictly Kei car regulations. Its 3695 mm length and wider footprint provided more practicality and comfort than earlier ultra-compact models.

When compared to similar hatchbacks of the mid-1980s such as the Suzuki Swift or Ford Fiesta, the Subaru Justy I (KAD) was slightly smaller in overall width but comparable in length. Its lightweight construction and compact size gave it a competitive edge in fuel economy and urban usability. The Subaru's all-wheel-drive option, available on some models, was a distinct feature that offered improved traction compared to many front-wheel-drive competitors in this segment.

The interior height is directly influenced by the car's exterior height of 1420 mm (55.9 inches), providing a reasonable headroom for a subcompact hatchback. The driving position in the Justy offers a fairly upright posture, enhancing driver visibility and control. The compact dimensions mean that while space is efficient for passengers, taller individuals might find headroom and legroom somewhat limited over long journeys compared to larger vehicles.

With a curb weight ranging between 750 and 860 kg (1653 to 1896 lbs), the Subaru Justy I (KAD) is relatively lightweight, which positively impacts its fuel efficiency and agility. Lower weight reduces the energy needed for acceleration and improves handling dynamics, making the Justy nimble in city traffic. Combined with its small engine options typical for the period, this weight range helped it achieve good fuel economy figures for its class.