1983 Daihatsu F20 4WD review from UK and Ireland

Engine suffered high oil consumption, transfer box leaked oil.

Tyres fell to bits before the tread was worn out due to the heat.

I owned this car when I worked in the Middle East, where it was used only for off-road trips.

The high oil consumption was caused by wear, due to the ingress of fine sand past the air filter. Despite changing the oil every 1500 miles it was always black. I suspect the piston rings were worn.

Offroad the weedy 1600cc Toyota engine lacked the power to tackle deep sand, but its light weight and small size allowed it to get to places big 4WDs couldn't.

The styling reminded me of Postman Pats van. Hardly ever seen in the UK now due to rust, the last one I saw looked suitable only for straining vegetables!

Mine was rust free, I did think about driving it back to the UK when I finished work, but when I was offered the same money I paid for it I decided against it. A 4WD with air-con, but no heater fitted? Ideal for North-country winters!