1988 Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top (F7,F8) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1988 Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top ranges from 1380 kg to 1620 kg (3042 to 3571 lbs), depending on specific configurations. Its maximum allowable weight ranges from 2125 kg to 2510 kg (4685 to 5538 lbs), ensuring it can safely carry passengers, cargo, and equipment needed for off-road adventures.

The Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top offers a standard luggage capacity of 520 liters (approximately 18.4 cubic feet) with rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands significantly to 1240 liters (about 43.8 cubic feet), providing ample room for transporting large or bulky items during trips or outdoor activities.

Standard garages usually have door widths starting around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) and heights of roughly 2100-2200 mm (82.7-86.6 inches). Given the Rocky Hard Top's width of 1690 mm (66.5 inches) and height of 1850 mm (72.8 inches), it fits comfortably in most standard garages with room to spare on all sides, making it convenient for everyday storage.

The Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top is equipped with tire sizes 215/85 R15 and 255/70 R15, both designed for rugged terrain. The 215/85 R15 tires provide a taller sidewall allowing more cushion and better absorption of rough terrain impacts, improving comfort and traction. The 255/70 R15 tires, being wider, offer enhanced grip and stability on off-road surfaces but might slightly compromise fuel efficiency and on-road ride smoothness.

With a height of 1850 mm (72.8 inches), the Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top stands relatively tall for a compact off-road vehicle. While this height provides excellent ground clearance and a commanding driving position, it also raises the center of gravity compared to lower vehicles. As a result, the vehicle may experience more body roll in sharp turns or uneven terrain. However, this tradeoff is expected and balanced by its off-road suspension tuning and chassis design.

Compared to the predecessor (often the earlier first-generation Rocky or its equivalent), the Rocky Hard Top (F7,F8) introduced in 1987-1988 presents compact but taller dimensions—measuring 3840 mm in length and 1850 mm in height. While earlier versions might have been slightly shorter or narrower, this generation focused on a more aggressive off-road stance with increased height for better ground clearance and enhanced cargo capacity, reflecting an evolution prioritizing utility and rugged capability.

The Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top competes closely with other compact off-road vehicles like the Suzuki Jimny and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. Measuring 3840 mm in length and offering up to 1240 liters of cargo space with folded seats, it is slightly shorter but taller than many rivals, providing excellent ground clearance. In cargo capacity, the Rocky is competitive, allowing versatile use between urban driving and rugged outdoor adventures, though it generally offers less interior space than larger SUVs.

Produced between 1987 and 1998, the Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top (F7,F8) was designed as a capable off-road compact SUV tailored for both casual users and outdoor enthusiasts. It featured a tough, utilitarian body-on-frame construction, modest dimensions allowing urban practicality, and sufficient ground clearance for rough terrain. Known for durability, versatility, and relatively light weight between 1380 and 1620 kg, it could be equipped with simple, reliable drivetrain components that appealed to those needing a rugged yet manageable vehicle.

Considering its curb weight ranging from 1380 to 1620 kg (3042 to 3571 lbs) combined with compact length and substantial height, the Daihatsu Rocky Hard Top offers an efficient balance of ruggedness and manageable size. Its relatively low weight for an off-roader enhances fuel efficiency and agility on rough trails, while its dimensions allow it to navigate tight off-road paths better than bulkier SUVs. This efficiency makes it a practical choice for those seeking capable off-road performance without excessive size or fuel consumption.