Rocky is one of Daihatsu’s products that has a long history. The classic 1992 Daihatsu Rocky car also has a value for historical and aesthetical. Curious about the journey of this classic Rocky car that will bring you nostalgia back to ‘92? Let’s enrich your insights about this vehicle through the following explanation.
The History of the 1992 Daihatsu Rocky
Between 1987 and 1998, the Japanese automaker Daihatsu manufactured a mini SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle). The car is well-known for its small size. With its small size, Rocky was agile in off-road. The car could easily cut through a shortcut like a forest, where the larger vehicle could get stuck.
This vehicle is known as Daihatsu Rocky in Japan and the USA. Meanwhile, in Australia and European countries, they called this car the Daihatsu Feroza.
This car was the following product after the success of the Daihatsu Taft GT. Both of the cars are 4WD vehicles. It means the engine powers all four wheels evenly. Therefore, the driver could gain more control in driving. Moreover, this type of engine is suitable for driving off-road.
In 1988, Daihatsu Rocky debuted in the USA auto market. Daihatsu distributed two vehicles to the USA, including Rocky, while the other one was Daihatsu Charade. However, Daihatsu struggled in marketing their products in that country. Eventually, the manufacturer stopped the distribution in 1992.
On the other hand, this vehicle was well-received in Indonesia. Daihatsu Rocky got famous from the late ’80s until the late ’90s. At the time, this car was using a DL42 diesel engine with a capacity of 2,765 cc. It also produces a power of 76 hp and a torque of 245 Nm.
The Generation of the Daihatsu Rocky
Since the 1980s, the Daihatsu Rocky has developed quite well. The development of the vehicle created a few generations of this model car. Let’s inspect each generation of Daihatsu Rocky and their characteristics in detail!
1. The First Generation
The Daihatsu automaker sold the first generation of the Rocky between 1887 and 1992. This generation’s engine was a SOHC 1.6L four-cylinder engine. As a result, Daihatsu Rocky can emit a maximum power of 76 hp/3,600 RPM and a maximum torque of 245 Nm/2,200 RPM.
The 1992 Daihatsu Rocky is also part of the first generation where all vehicle has a manual transmission type with 5-gear ratios. Additionally, this vehicle used a timing belt that is essential to synchronize the movement of camshafts and crankshafts. As a result, the automobile would run correctly.
Furthermore, the Daihatsu Rocky car also uses in-line pump injection as its component. Hence, the car can produce a higher maximum torque. However, this vehicle’s engines can be loud.
2. The Second Generation
The second generation of the Daihatsu Rocky was released after 1992. This generation gained a better improvement compared to the previous generation.
The exterior design of the second generation was not firm like the previous generation. Additionally, the fender and the bumper are big. Thus, it looks more casual and modern.
The second generation of the Daihatsu Rocky is considered a complete version of the SUV. It is because the vehicle improves many things from the first generation. The improvements include independent suspension, a four-wheel drive system, and front-facing rear seats. Therefore, it’s more comfortable to drive using this car.
The Daihatsu Rocky’s second generation also remained popular in certain countries, like Indonesia. Unfortunately, the production of this vehicle has stopped since 2007.
The Specifications of the 1992 Daihatsu Rocky
As the first generation, the Rocky car from 1992 also has similar specifications to other cars from the same generation. Let’s examine the ‘92 Daihatsu Rocky 1.6 SX’s specifications!
1. Dimension
The list below is the basic information about the ‘92 Daihatsu Rocky 1.6 SX:
- Dimension (l x w x h): 3705 mm x 1635 mm x 1725 mm,
- Internal dimension (l x w x h): 1690 mm x 1300 mm x 1175 mm,
- Wheelbase: 2175 mm,
- Weight: 1250 kg,
- Body type: SUV,
- Number of riding capacity: 4 seats,
- Number of doors: 3 doors,
- Fuel type: regular gasoline,
- Fuel tank equipment: 60L.
2. Engine Performance
The engine model of the 1992 Daihatsu Rocky 1,6 SX is HD-E. It also uses the engine type of a water-cooling 4-cylinder vertical OHC. Thus, with this engine, the vehicle can emit a power of around 105 hp/6000 RPM and a torque of 140 Nm/3500 RPM.
This Rocky car has a manual transmission with 5-gear ratios. Additionally, the fuel consumption of this car for 60km/h is 6.0L/100km.
However, like other first-generation cars, the engine commonly has difficulties in its performance due to poor air induction. The driver can solve this problem by removing the air filtration system and applying a more free-flowing air filter.
3. Exterior Design
The exterior design of the ‘92 Daihatsu Rocky SX featured a small rectangular shape compared to other cars. The car has big headlights with angular-shaped car arches. Additionally, the car grill is flat and taller than other car models.
This design gives off a sense of bravery and masculinity as if you are ready for adventure. In fact, its exterior design is adaptable to any environment. Therefore, you can drive the car on-road or off-road.
4. Interior Design
The 1992 Daihatsu Rocky SX’s interior has a boxy design with straight angles and flat areas. It also provides a binocular-style instrument cluster in front of the driver seat with an additional set of gauges.
Furthermore, there is a raised roof in the back. Thus, it gives more headroom for rear passengers. However, there is still a limited space for the legroom.
5. Price
Unfortunately, the price of this car can be expensive since it’s rare to find the vehicle. The cost can depend on the current condition, qualified licenses, and taxes. Commonly, it costs around $2,640 to $4,070. However, the fixed cost is the seller’s to determine. Thus, you may negotiate it with the sellers.
Where is the 1992 Daihatsu Rocky Today?
Since Daihatsu automaker stopped production in the early 2000s, the 1992 Daihatsu Rocky is difficult to find. However, the charm of being an adventure car will encourage the collectors to find this car.
Moreover, its historical value will make the car even more valuable. Thus, while it’s quite hard to find one, you may check with other collectors to get one.