1985 Daihatsu Rocky EX Short Wheel Base review from Australia and New Zealand
"Thirsty, uncomfortable, but totally bullet-proof"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
1st Petrol tank rusted (poor fuel quality suspected)
Automatic choke replaced by 2nd hand part twice.
Drivers seat cloth tore early.
Radiator reconditioned twice.
Rust beginning to appear in roof gutters.
General comments?
This car war purchased new in our family and has been serviced every 5,000 kms.
Original engine still runs extremely well, although fuel consumption is poor, and the small tank allows for a max range of around 330kms. Slow acceleration, but very acceptable torque for off-road situations. Uses approx 500ml of oil every 5,000kms.
The most noticeable shortcoming since new was the standard suspension and this has not been changed. A very bumpy and firm ride, but on-road handling is good. Power steering. Excellent brakes.
Off-road ability is good, limited only by ramp-over angle in very challenging terrain. Manual front-locking hubs. Low range transfer case.
Uncomplicated design and good visibility.
Well suited to tight mountain tracks. Less suited to open desert tracks.
A good, if thirsty, city car.
Recommended reviews
| Basic, unbreakable,unstoppable |
|
| Noisy, slow, harsh-riding but incredibly faithful, reliable and surprisingly economical |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 1986 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 petrol (Toyota 3YC) Manual |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 265000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 12th August, 2002 |