The 1967 Subaru Sambar for sale on eBay proves that food trucks are not a new concept. Subaru started importing cars to America in 1968. But the Japanese automaker made the versatile multi-functional Sambar mini truck for its domestic market since early in that decade. The rare 1967 example on eBay is the ultra-rare version equipped for catering purposes.
The first Subarus sold in America were cute 360 models, although not the Sambar mini trucks.
They featured a two-stroke, inline two-cylinder engine with 356cc displacement. They produced a mild 25 horsepower and weighed less than 1,000 pounds. These specs allowed the first Subaru models to earn 50 miles to the gallon.
Subaru imported only about 6,000 of the 360s to the United States in the 1960s. Only a handful of the Sambar trucks made it to the US.
Hot Dog Stove as Accessory
The San Diego-based seller explains the food catering layout of the vehicle for sale on eBay:
The Subaru 360 Sambar mini caterer truck model 500 was an original accessory from Subaru of America—made in New Jersey in the first year that Subaru opened in 1967.
The vehicle’s accessories include:
- Hot dog stove with three gas burners
- Five compartment steam table
- Cold storage compartment
- 20-gallon cold water tank
- A coffee urn
- A slot for an umbrella
A 20-gallon tank feeds the gas burners. The Sambar truck can hold 300 soda bottles and 500 hot dog buns. At this scale, this wee truck could serve a big party or tailgating event. The food-serving options add 250 pounds to the Sambar.
Buy It Now on eBay
The seller references the Subaru 360 Drivers Club, which indicates that only three of these Subaru hot-dog-vending vehicles have survived. While it might be difficult to find vintage food-service accessories for the little Suby, eBay offers an extensive supply of 360 parts. The technology was rudimentary and would be fun for hobbyists to maintain.
The paint may lack some shine, and the interior is sparse. But it would be hard to imagine a more appropriate or fun vintage vehicle to show off at your local Cars and Coffee event.
