Rare 1991 Subaru MV Pickup Comes With A Mountain Of Spares

The humble Subaru MV Pickup has quietly built up a cult following over the years, especially among people who appreciate unusual Japanese utility vehicles and proper old-school engineering. Now and then, one pops up that reminds you just how rare they’ve become in the UK — and this 1991 example definitely falls into that category.

Finished in period cream with orange and black graphics, this MV Pickup was recently offered for sale on eBay and appears to have had extensive restoration work carried out already. Better still, it comes with what sounds like an enormous collection of spare parts, including additional driveline components, glass, panels, carburettors, suspension parts and even another engine and gearbox.

Subaru’s Tiny Pickup With Big Character

The Subaru MV Pickup — also known as the BRAT in some markets — was Subaru doing things their own way. Small, light and fitted with selectable four-wheel drive, these pickups developed a loyal following among farmers, surfers, smallholders and anyone wanting something more interesting than a conventional van.

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, survivors were already becoming uncommon in Britain, largely because many were worked hard and simply worn out. Finding one today that still looks this sharp is unusual enough. Finding one with factory power steering, a Webber carb conversion and an LSD rear differential is another level entirely.

The seller states that this pickup has had new engine and gearbox mounts fitted throughout, along with a rear disc brake conversion. A limited-slip differential is also fitted to the rear axle, which the seller describes as very rare.

Two Pickups Worth Of Spares?

One of the biggest attractions here is the sheer amount of included spares. According to the listing, the sale includes spare front wings, bonnets, tailgates, front and rear screens, carburettors, prop shafts, lights, suspension parts, brake discs and much more besides.

There’s also reportedly an additional engine and gearbox with around 83,000 miles, plus a factory workshop manual.

In the seller’s own words, there are “about two pickups worth of spares” included with the sale.

MOT Needed But Plenty Of Potential

The Subaru is said to require an MOT, although the listing suggests extensive restoration work has already been carried out. From the photos, it certainly presents well, especially underneath the bonnet and around the load bed area where these pickups can often suffer badly.

With interest in quirky Japanese classics continuing to rise, vehicles like this are getting far more attention than they once did. It’s easy to imagine this turning up at retro shows, Japanese car meets or even being put back to work as a usable classic utility vehicle.

Find Similar Subaru MV Pickups

This Subaru MV Pickup was offered for sale on eBay by seller diesel3108 at the time of writing.

You can view the seller’s current listings here:
https://ebay.us/htMTws

You can also browse similar Subaru MV Pickups and related models here:
https://ebay.us/w2EcCZ

As always, if you’ve got unusual classics, forgotten projects, old Japanese pickups or interesting vehicles tucked away, we’re always looking to buy interesting stock here at UK Barn Finds.