Remember Daihatsu? They’re the oldest car company in Japan, but only sold vehicles here in the US from about 1987 to 1992. Since 1988, Toyota has owned a majority stake in Daihatsu and they are very much alive today. In the US, only two models were offered – the Charade shitbox and this, the Rocky mini-SUV. Most significantly, this model was called the Rugger in Japan. I guess Daihatsu didn’t want to fight the children’s clothing company over naming rights here.
The seller claims this one has lots of new parts, as it was out of commission for about a year and was refreshed. Mileage of 148K shouldn’t be a problem for this little Japanese four cylinder, but I confess I’m not sure about parts on these. I quick scan of Rock Auto shows the basics are available – that’s good news. The seller claims no rust
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Brinnon, WA
$3,500 BIN with offers considered
While the Rocky has likely been forgotten by 93.4% of the US population, it’s a perfectly attractive alternative to a Suzuki 4×4 and much more manly than a first-gen RAV4. It does not, however, have the 6-cylinder power necessary to compete with the Amigo/Rodeo Sport.
Outside spare means there’s some cargo capacity and, yes, that top is removable. A soft top might be available and might be desirable, given this one does not have air conditioning.
The interior is pretty much standard issue late 80s/early 90s. Yes, this one has a clutch pedal!
Engine isn’t much to look at, but it’s all there.
Ad text:
A very desirable Daihatsu ROCKY ! As it had not been driven in over 1 year, it’s been properly gone over and has the following NEW parts ! New Clutch, brakes and alternator. It looks good, drives well and the body is in good condition for it’s age & the tires look to have many miles to go. The engine has not been steam cleaned, but if you choose to do so, even the engine will look great. As you can view, there is a hardtop and the color is the most wanted on a Rocky.
I just had a question asking about rust. My assistant went and checked it over and finds NO RUST. Also the rocky does not have air conditioning.