[2] As with many other small two-stroke gas-engined cars, oil needed to be premixed with the petrol (gasoline), with the fuel tank lid serving as a measuring cup.

[5] The initial production featured a full metal dash board and three-speed manual gearbox, while subsequent models featured a partially padded dash with an open glove compartment, pop-out rear quarter windows, split front bench seat, map pockets, a four-speed manual and optional three-speed-based 'Autoclutch' transmission[4]—the latter which eliminated the clutch pedal and operated the clutch via an electromagnet.

In the post war period, more automobiles would switch to unibody construction, which is now the norm for passenger cars and even many light trucks.

Equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, the 360 had a top speed of 100 km/h (60 mph),[7] and with a curb weight under 450 kg (1,000 lb), the 360 was exempt from compliance with US safety regulations.

The speed limits in Japan are realistically set at 40 km/h (25 mph) in urban areas, with average driving distances at 8–13 km (5–8 mi) per day.

From 1961 onwards, a flat-nosed truck and van called the Sambar were also produced using the 360's engine, with arrangements similar to the Volkswagen Transporter in a smaller size.

Unfortunately they suffered from overheating problems and although a solution was eventually found, it came too late, as the associated losses were too great for the dealership to cope with and further importations ceased.

The Subaru 360 received notoriety in 1969, when Consumer Reports magazine branded the automobile "Not Acceptable" because of safety concerns and lack of power.