Worked as a maintenance guy at a university and we drove these trucks around campus, but these were automatic and left hand drive. Fell in love with these little trucks and have wanted one ever since. I can drive a manual no problem but afraid with the right hand drive plus the manual shift may cause some problems. Shifting with my left hand instead of right will take some practice. Then there are the pedals, with possibly hitting the gas instead of the break or the clutch. I may tear up some stuff trying to learn right hand drive.
@@crown674 Thanks. I never knew that. Always thought the gas pedal would be under your left foot in a right hand drive. That does make it easier with them staying in the same position.
@@corgidog6756 Not only are the pedals and nearly all the controls the same, minus the radio of course the gears are the same when in a right hand drive manual as well. First is the front left just like it would be in left hand drive. Also, at first it feels really weird for like the first few miles, but after that it's nothing. To be honest I realized that I kind of liked it better in hindsight. I'm right handed and would prefer to keep that hand on the wheel, shifting is a dumb motion, doesn't require high precision most times. Steering though, sometimes you need your smart hand in tight spots. I had the pleasure of driving right hand drive vehicles for about 6 months while deployed. A pair of bongo trucks and my officer's right hand drive Toyota Highlander Asia equivalent which had a freaking turbo in it and the sport shift option on the automatic. I got to take that in for maintenance all the time... The road leading up to the shop was a straight mile and a half long dirt/gravel road. Boy did that fuckin thing tear ass on the way to maintenance, haha.
I've been driving my Subaru Sambar kei truck for about a year now. Shifting with the left hand was a piece of cake from day one. Getting used to the pedals was never an issue, since they are oriented the same way as in American cars. There was a slight problem getting used to the turn signal (mounted on the right side of the steering wheel, instead of the left as in American cars). But I gradually got used to that. What still bothers me is the windshield wiper mounted on left side. Since I don't use it very often, I haven't developed the muscle memory or ingrained the mental habit of using the opposite side. This is especially true since I continue to use my Tacoma as my daily driver. So, I've learned to LOOK for my windshield wiper when driving my Sambar before turning it on.
My friend, after watching your videos including the one with Yoshi, I have contacted him and I'm going to restart my import business after 15 years however no more unimogs, heavy duty diesels portal axles, going all JDM this time. Your videos are inspirational honest and clear. I have found Yoshi to be the same. Maybe we'll cross paths one of these days ...keep up the great content Cb
Well done for talking about having fun when driving. It's just something that drivers of electric cars and automatic cars don't seem to understand, or appreciate.
Back in the 80's my body had one of these vehicles, very reliable, useful and great in gas too. We live in a town 12000 ft over the sea level they can always handle the loads you put on them. In highway they will never go over 60 mph. We were teens always broke but couple bucks in gas was enough for a whole week. Most common back then were the Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Honda was harder to find and much more expensive.
Thank you for a really good video! But I got to say I’m really mad, That American automotive companies like Ford Chevy and GMC and Dodge won’t make what the people want! The Kei trucks! I would love to buy a brand new diesel Kei truck With everything on it for an affordable price from Detroit! Makes me mad we have to buy 25-year-old imports from Japan! Somethings got to change! Great video!
I agree 100%. If one of the big three made trucks like these they would be affordable and hopefully as durable. Maybe one day this will catch on. Thanks for watching👍🏾
Thank you so much for your review. I am in the research phase but I want to use my truck to help me keep my farm land clean. And carrying water to my gardens and to run trash to the dump.
Where do you find your parts? My bro in law just picked up we believe it's a 99-2002 model S210P Daihatsu Hijet for $5 because it doesn't run and the previous owner said it's the injectors and could cost $1200+ to fix. I've been searching like mad for injectors and other parts and most are refurbished and have to wait a month + just to receive the parts from over seas. I'm thinking its best to part it out then keep it. Oem parts from what I've seen are not cheap or even readily available for the Daihatsu.
You've helped me with this video decide that I want a Daihatsu Hijet with a manual transmission and AC. I'm glad I watched your video before buying because I would've gone with Subaru only because it's a familiar name, and would've cooked inside that truck! I'd either like that or to import a Diesel Smart Fortwo with a manual transmission!
Solid video my braddah. Much mahalos for comparing the 3 Kei trucks. Been seeing choke of these in Oahu, and I'm so tempted to get one! I definitely would love to own a Daihatsu Hijet.
Thumbs up, cool and informative. I found that the Hondas bolt pattern is very common being a 4x100…..vw, Mazda, bmw, Audi are some that use it. The difficulty is finding a small enough wheel ie 12-13-14”
I see a lot of people in the US importing the Japanese Kei trucks but never the European variants. I’m in the UK and I have a 2001 Suzuki carry van and it’s got a 1.3 litre engine with 5sp manual gearbox. It will happily cruise at 65-70mph on the motorway. Plus if you got one from mainland Europe they’d be left hand drive, only problem I’d they’re probably not as easy to get hold of I suppose.
Thanks for this side-by-side comparison. I'm looking at getting one of these trucks because I'm turned off by the offerings for trucks here in the US - they're all too large, and too expensive. I only need one of these to drive to work and back when it's raining too hard to ride my bike, I would never need to go over about 40 mph, so one of these would be great. One question I have - are these little engines fuel injected, or carbureted? I haven't had the chance to look at one of the trucks in person yet.
@@livingthislife Thanks for the reply! I had carbed vehicles when I was younger, in fact I still have a motorcycle with a carburetor, so it wouldn't be too strange for me.
Hey me too! Trucks these days are too damn big and too expensive and I daily ride a motorcycle, but these little trucks would be perfect here in the USA
Thank you for the informative review. I love the idea of a mini-truck alternative to SUV/ATV for the deer hunting season. Why can't the behemoth American manufacturers (GM & Ford, or Polaris upgrade UTV) take this concept and upgrade it? Agree, an innercity or offroad vehicle not for a cross country road trip. Think Honda Acty would be my first choice or the rare Toyota Townace (diesel).
Thanks for the video. My father owns a Suzuki Carry (not Cherry). A "kei tora" (so called for short in Japan) is almost a must if you live in a rural part of Japan and have some farmland to take care of. Convenient, economical, and reliable!
Thank you for the excellent breakdown. I'm surprised you don't have more subs, I like your style! I stumbled upon this video whilst trying to understand Kei trucks. Unfortunately I live in one of the few states (California) where its neigh impossible to get one street legal. I still want one for my ranch and off-roading though. I'm thinking maybe a Suzuki Carry 93-95 year with a dump bed, diff-lock, and A/C that's not in too rough of shape. Am I dreaming haha? I definitely feel like I'm going down a rabbit hole haha. Anyway thanks again for the great comparison video!
Thank you for watching and i'm glad the video helped. You can find that Suzuki caryy it will just take time, check with some reputable car exporters from Japan and tell them what you want...it will be found but it will take time👍🏾👍🏾
I've been shopping too, and I feel the same way, but a dump bed Carry with diff lock is a pretty realistic dream, I've seen a few around. I've been trying to find one of the ones that's a scissor lift *and* a dump bed, that's turned out to be a lot harder.
I love showing my JP friends how gaijins are obsessed with old-ass work trucks found in every street corner in Japan and all over Asia. These are the most boring and ubiquitous vehicles in Japan 😂
Not just gaijins even Japanese...the kei street scene started in japan..before covid I traveled there often and I would show up car shows with lots of modded keis👍🏾
Considering how absurdly fucking huge all the trucks are in America it’s really fucking cool to own a tiny version of it, I mean I’m 6’2” and it’s devastating knowing I’ll never be able to fit my 外人 ass in a Kei car 🤣 I’d still buy a kei car in the future especially a AZ-1 if I could just because of how fucking cool Kei cars are.
They are rampant in the philippines and we convert the steering wheel to the left cause it looks dumb and dangerous😂😂 We call it "easyride" over there and now there are newer ones called zuzuki transformers 😂😂😂 saves hella gas
Where I live in the USA, AC is mandatory. It gets so dang hot and humid for so long during part of the year that trying to live without AC in a vehicle is torture. I tried it for a few years and nearly had heat strokes every year I tried it. I plan on either getting a kei truck or kei van (or both?) in the future and whatever I get must have working AC or an AC that can be repaired. I'm considering a Honda for either/both.
I have a honda truck with A/C and unfortunately most Kei truck ac systems dont get that cold...compared to modern cars, but definitely worth getting for hotter areas. Now it's all I look for when I buy a kei vehicle👍🏾👌🏾
I live on an Island as well but we do not have the 25 year age restrictions on importation. I like the older design with the front wheels further back. Seems to have more legroom from pictures.
Nice job on your video here. I'm in the states and need to angle with a little bit of freeway driving. To me that would be about 65 mph. I'm pretty sure these would be a handful at that speed. Any of these Kei Trucks more freeway friendly? Sounds like the Honda is at the moment. One thing many people don't realize is that these were everyday trucks in Japan. They weren't babied or pampered. And after 25+ yrs, they are still driving pretty dang solid!
I’m planning to get one for my home maintenance business, I want to get one with a cube at the back and I will modify a ladder rack system on top. This could save a lot of gas and I’m still able to carry 28 feet ladders.
Thx you so much for this view. If you want a Left-control version from the Daihatsu Hijet. in Europe has also exist the Hijet, also License-Build by Piaggio, Named "Piaggio porter"
@@livingthislife I know what its like making content and often people only post neg shit. Best of luck in 2020-2024-2030 Have you seen this mini truck before - Japanese Mini Truck - Zombie Apocalypse Edition ruclips.net/video/eCylSGEZ6pQ/видео.html
I live in Philippines and have the Suzuki. Has plenty of power i was surprised. I put on 14" wheels and a lift kit. Mine is a left hand drive. I also have the half cap on the back with jump seats. I have never seen this option on any in the states.
I feel the hijet is supeior to the rest as they come with 2 diff locks if you look around, and as kei trucks all have very limited wheel articulation if a kei trunk doesent have at least 1 diff lock they are next to useless. we imported about 35 of them over 3 years and lifted them, added turf or tractor tires 8 inch on front and 12 inch wide on back and sold them to farmers some where rego and sold with 2 set of tires. also sold a Honda acty van to a hot pie man cost him 50 dollars per week to run compared to his express van thing that cost 200 dollars per. the Suzuki and hijet we brought showed the hijet to be the better truck didn't bring in the Honda in truck form as they are pretty rare in nargoya. the hi jet just didn't break down as often, and due to 2 diff locks was very hard to stop when the lift kit was installed.
@@SamsMotors the diff lock are the same on all brands that have them e.g Suzuki and Daihatsu, electric switch over vacuum system and switches are manual, are very obvious so if you cant see any you can assume it dont have any diff locks. so if real 4 by 4 is your plan move on. as there useless with out them in medium to hard 4 by 4 ing.
@@peterhatton7558 thanks Peter. So the Honda and Subaru didn't get diff locks then? It's not totally necessary for what I want to do but nice to have the capability. I've heard that the Daihatsu are the more solid and well built than the other makes too - is that true?
and of cause you can just look at rear diff it will have vacuum chamber on it its got diff lock all will have one on back diff some,.... the holy grails will have one on front diff their for truck will proudly display stickers saying double diff lock. rare as hens theeh but. we Youse to sell them with 8 inch wide front and 12 wide grass tires or tractor tread to farmers. would make a spacer to fit under the top of the front struts and cut rear spring shackles in half and weld in about 2 inch's to raise the little trucks up. i am out the great barrier reef at the moment and boat keeps swinging on the anchor dropping internet out driving me crazy so if you do buy one. and want to ask any more things I will ancer them when back on land.
How would you find, buy or order one of these? What's an average cost? I've seen these when visiting other countries and for me, this type of truck would fit my needs perfectly.. Thank you, Steve
Would die to have one the places I go fishing are way out in the sticks those can get there no more dragging gear out to the spot by hand and making 3 trips before I can cast out plus I can drive it there from home awesome
Starting to see K20 and K24 swaps being done on the ACTY. I’m sure you could put the Honda K motor in any of them, but I would always go with Honda and put the best possible motor that fits. Even a budget B20 swap would make for a stout power plant in those little trucks.
I like the engine placement on the Honda not only because of heat and it would seem better front to rear weight distribution. Do any share engines with motorcycles
Very well done! The information you gave is pretty hard to find. One improvement would be get a lapel mic, maybe bluetooth, it would keep your audio even. Great job!
Hafa Adai! Thank you for the good video review. I’m just curious, as you mentioned in the video, why does it’s better to have no air-con on kei trucks? I’m thinking to get one kei truck as well. Thank you.
Thanks for the great comparison video. Very useful for people in the market for one of these utilitarian vehicles. Will four foot wide plywood or drywall fit in the bed without folding down the sides?
@@livingthislife - Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my question. I'm close to dreaming about a kei truck enough to make that dream a reality. :-)
You may have gone over this in another video, but what do you know about adding AC to a Kei truck? I live in Georgia and it gets really hot and humid for most of the year. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Take care and I also like seeing the beautiful views of Guam! Peace
It can be done however it may cost alot. Im sure in your area you can find a shop to provide something aftermarket...again at a price. You may want to consider buying a truck with ac.
th Thanks for making the video. I was trying to decide on wether to get the Suzuki or the Daihatsu. After watching I decided on the Suzuki. Have you noticed any problems with rust? How many miles on the Suzuki you own? They are going for anywhere between 6k to 8k where I live......I guess that's reasonable? Thoughts?
I've owned a few Suzukis with mileage ranging from 10000 to over 100000 miles. They're very reliable and easy to work on and have a great aftermarket options. Great choice🤙🏾🤙🏾regarding rust if you come across any take care of it quickly but I really never had issues....keep in mind they're 25 years old.
@@livingthislife I ended up with a 95 Daihatsu Hijet 13,600 miles. I'm curious, have you bought any tires? 145R12's? Also, was told to run 5w30 full synthetic. sound right to you? Any advice is helpful. Thanks man.
@@markstaley6757 5w or 10w 30 is good just depends really on your weather conditions if it's colder 5w30. I prefer synthetic oil too better for older vehicles and vehicles with EFI. I recommend using a gas treatment for your gas and efi system, I'm assuming your hijet has efi...use it every 4 months or so. I'll get back to you on the tires that I'm using now, but I'm sure I matched the stocks.
Hey pare, I'm also from Guam. Great comparison video. Planning on purchasing a KEI truck so this video answered a ton of questions that I had. I do have one to ask though. Did you buy your truck on island or did you did you purchase yours online? If so which website did you go to? Thanks brother!
If your interested send me a DM or email...I have a Honda 4X4 with new paint that you may want👍🏾🤙🏾go to my channel hit about and my instagram is there its 1erskin.
I don't know if you are a Fil-Am but you look like one. If ever you are, you sure haven't been in the Philippines! Japanese Kei trucks are so common in the Visayas and Mindanao, Luzon now has these too. The right hand drive as they arrive are converted to left hand drive, so too are the dash boards! You can watch RUclips blogs of Surplus TV.
Thank you so very much. I like the Honda. How would it do on sand ? I live Kauai. Mostly road hauling of soup kitchen supplies. To get down the beach once in a while would be a nice. Thanks again. Good Video. ALOHA.
Basic maintenance, oil change etc are fast and easy on these trucks. The hardest thing I had to do so far is change an alternator belt, which wasn't difficult. They made a tons of these trucks and they are still produced to this day, parts a readily available online.
Didn't one of the brands have a larger, taller cab? Also do the manual 4wd's ever have a locker or limited slip in the front? I know some have one in the rear with a dash switch to engage but how about the front? Useful in snow country or mud. Thanks. Doug
I know Subaru has a taller cab truck the sambar...ill make a video with that model which Francis now owns and its 4 cylinder. Yes some models have a locking diff.
@@livingthislife I know some have it in the rear but I haven't yet seen one in both front and rear. This would mean when running a manual 4wd even with a rear locker the front would be an open axle I.e., the tire with the least traction gets all the power. The acty with awd is a better setup for snow especially if it has a low range. Something to consider here in snow country. Thanks. Doug
@@douglasthompson2740 Now I see why the honda acty has advantages for the snow compared to the others 👍🏾👍🏾Im getting a 1995 daihatsu super deluxe...which is an auto 5 speed..ill make vid for that when it arrives.
A family friend has a Suzuki that was used on a deer lease that I’m looking into buying off of him. It’d be a fun project car, only thing is it has a diy camo paint job. 😂
![Which Is The Best JDM Kei Truck? Sambar? Acty? HiJet? Carry? Minicab? [Collector Car Guru's RANKED!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cdBN6R1KAvI/mqdefault.jpg)
![Which Is The Best JDM Kei Truck? Sambar? Acty? HiJet? Carry? Minicab? [Collector Car Guru's RANKED!]](/img/tr.png)
Worked as a maintenance guy at a university and we drove these trucks around campus, but these were automatic and left hand drive. Fell in love with these little trucks and have wanted one ever since. I can drive a manual no problem but afraid with the right hand drive plus the manual shift may cause some problems. Shifting with my left hand instead of right will take some practice. Then there are the pedals, with possibly hitting the gas instead of the break or the clutch. I may tear up some stuff trying to learn right hand drive.
Pedals remain in the same order (from left to right: clutch, brake, gas) regardless of whether the vehicle is right or left hand drive.
@@crown674 Thanks. I never knew that. Always thought the gas pedal would be under your left foot in a right hand drive. That does make it easier with them staying in the same position.
@@corgidog6756 Not only are the pedals and nearly all the controls the same, minus the radio of course the gears are the same when in a right hand drive manual as well. First is the front left just like it would be in left hand drive.
Also, at first it feels really weird for like the first few miles, but after that it's nothing. To be honest I realized that I kind of liked it better in hindsight. I'm right handed and would prefer to keep that hand on the wheel, shifting is a dumb motion, doesn't require high precision most times. Steering though, sometimes you need your smart hand in tight spots.
I had the pleasure of driving right hand drive vehicles for about 6 months while deployed. A pair of bongo trucks and my officer's right hand drive Toyota Highlander Asia equivalent which had a freaking turbo in it and the sport shift option on the automatic. I got to take that in for maintenance all the time... The road leading up to the shop was a straight mile and a half long dirt/gravel road. Boy did that fuckin thing tear ass on the way to maintenance, haha.
I've been driving my Subaru Sambar kei truck for about a year now. Shifting with the left hand was a piece of cake from day one. Getting used to the pedals was never an issue, since they are oriented the same way as in American cars.
There was a slight problem getting used to the turn signal (mounted on the right side of the steering wheel, instead of the left as in American cars). But I gradually got used to that.
What still bothers me is the windshield wiper mounted on left side. Since I don't use it very often, I haven't developed the muscle memory or ingrained the mental habit of using the opposite side. This is especially true since I continue to use my Tacoma as my daily driver. So, I've learned to LOOK for my windshield wiper when driving my Sambar before turning it on.
My friend, after watching your videos including the one with Yoshi, I have contacted him and I'm going to restart my import business after 15 years however no more unimogs, heavy duty diesels portal axles, going all JDM this time. Your videos are inspirational honest and clear. I have found Yoshi to be the same. Maybe we'll cross paths one of these days ...keep up the great content Cb
This is great to hear👍🏾and thank you for watching. Yes one day we will meet and perhaps I will patronize your future business👍🏾🤙🏾
Which video has this information? Can you give me a video title or link.. thanks in advance
Witch1can i put a rotary in 😇🤔🤔😎
@Chris, did you get that import business up and running? Id be very interested in talking to you.
I so want a kei truck. I hate the 25 year rule. I also think they'd be so fun to customize.
I have watched a ton of Mini Truck videos, yours is absolutely the best I’ve seen! You know your stuff and present it so very well! Thank You!!!
I'm glad you enjoyed the vid...keep on keiTruckin🤙🏾
Well done for talking about having fun when driving. It's just something that drivers of electric cars and automatic cars don't seem to understand, or appreciate.
Like you I love to drive and don't mind long distances👍🏾
Back in the 80's my body had one of these vehicles, very reliable, useful and great in gas too. We live in a town 12000 ft over the sea level they can always handle the loads you put on them. In highway they will never go over 60 mph. We were teens always broke but couple bucks in gas was enough for a whole week. Most common back then were the Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Honda was harder to find and much more expensive.
This was perfect. I needed this exact explanation.
Thank you Sir🤙🏾🤙🏾Get that truck👍🏾
@@livingthislife When i get a house. Soon. Thanks!
Thank you for a really good video! But I got to say I’m really mad, That American automotive companies like Ford Chevy and GMC and Dodge won’t make what the people want! The Kei trucks! I would love to buy a brand new diesel Kei truck With everything on it for an affordable price from Detroit! Makes me mad we have to buy 25-year-old imports from Japan! Somethings got to change! Great video!
I agree 100%. If one of the big three made trucks like these they would be affordable and hopefully as durable. Maybe one day this will catch on. Thanks for watching👍🏾
Just because they are the BIG 3 doesnot make them Smart.. Maybe a Very Good seller!!
You meant the 3 Bigots Chrysler,Ford and GM
Thank you so much for your review. I am in the research phase but I want to use my truck to help me keep my farm land clean. And carrying water to my gardens and to run trash to the dump.
I would love to own any of these they are one of the most interesting vehicles that I have seen
Daihatsu is number 1.low spare part price.long live with hard work
Where do you find your parts? My bro in law just picked up we believe it's a 99-2002 model S210P Daihatsu Hijet for $5 because it doesn't run and the previous owner said it's the injectors and could cost $1200+ to fix. I've been searching like mad for injectors and other parts and most are refurbished and have to wait a month + just to receive the parts from over seas. I'm thinking its best to part it out then keep it. Oem parts from what I've seen are not cheap or even readily available for the Daihatsu.
@@Muffmiester79 daihatsu is cheap, cheaper than toyota parts and equal to suzuki parts here.
You've helped me with this video decide that I want a Daihatsu Hijet with a manual transmission and AC. I'm glad I watched your video before buying because I would've gone with Subaru only because it's a familiar name, and would've cooked inside that truck! I'd either like that or to import a Diesel Smart Fortwo with a manual transmission!
Love the video. I saw the plate, hello to my favorite place in the world. I was stationed on Anderson in 1990.
Hafa Adai🤙🏾🤙🏾Come back to us👍🏽
Subaru Sambar FTW!
Solid video my braddah. Much mahalos for comparing the 3 Kei trucks. Been seeing choke of these in Oahu, and I'm so tempted to get one! I definitely would love to own a Daihatsu Hijet.
Mahalo🤙🏾🤙🏾
Thumbs up, cool and informative. I found that the Hondas bolt pattern is very common being a 4x100…..vw, Mazda, bmw, Audi are some that use it. The difficulty is finding a small enough wheel ie 12-13-14”
Suzuki Kei trucks owner here. Cool on the streets and very useful on all types of occasion for me.
Great Truck🤙🏾🤙🏾
I see a lot of people in the US importing the Japanese Kei trucks but never the European variants. I’m in the UK and I have a 2001 Suzuki carry van and it’s got a 1.3 litre engine with 5sp manual gearbox. It will happily cruise at 65-70mph on the motorway. Plus if you got one from mainland Europe they’d be left hand drive, only problem I’d they’re probably not as easy to get hold of I suppose.
It may be higher in price to import one from the UK...but I would like to have one.
Send me link we want to buy
Ya I had the same idea recently. I live in the US and have been looking for a 25year old piaggio porter lhd 4x4 truck
The suzuki carry pick up is very rare in the UK and non-existent in Ireland.
My HiJet headliner was falling down also 😆. Cool video, I always wondered about the other models. Thanks!
I had two trucks with liners that were sagging so I used 3m spray adhesive to keep it up.
I'd happily pay $5000 for one that has the full bed lift. Just discovered these cool trucks.
Thanks for this side-by-side comparison. I'm looking at getting one of these trucks because I'm turned off by the offerings for trucks here in the US - they're all too large, and too expensive. I only need one of these to drive to work and back when it's raining too hard to ride my bike, I would never need to go over about 40 mph, so one of these would be great.
One question I have - are these little engines fuel injected, or carbureted? I haven't had the chance to look at one of the trucks in person yet.
Some are EFI but most older than 25 yrs have carbs. My current Hijet is EFI.
@@livingthislife Thanks for the reply! I had carbed vehicles when I was younger, in fact I still have a motorcycle with a carburetor, so it wouldn't be too strange for me.
Hey me too! Trucks these days are too damn big and too expensive and I daily ride a motorcycle, but these little trucks would be perfect here in the USA
@@Oddman1980 we have had turbo and compressor or supercharger
Only Fuel injection we had Subaru Sambar truck
I have a ‘93 Suzuki Carry. Really enjoy it. Rides nice. Just use it around town. Thanks for sharing this. Nice to hear about the other trucks.
It's a great in town ride👍🏾
This in depth review answered all my questions. Well made 👍🏼
🤙🏾🤙🏾👍🏾
Thank you for the informative review. I love the idea of a mini-truck alternative to SUV/ATV for the deer hunting season. Why can't the behemoth American manufacturers (GM & Ford, or Polaris upgrade UTV) take this concept and upgrade it? Agree, an innercity or offroad vehicle not for a cross country road trip. Think Honda Acty would be my first choice or the rare Toyota Townace (diesel).
I agree 100%..an american kei truck would be amazing.
Toyota Townace or Liteace not a rare diesel
american safety and crash regulations killed small trucks i think
Thanks for the video. My father owns a Suzuki Carry (not Cherry). A "kei tora" (so called for short in Japan) is almost a must if you live in a rural part of Japan and have some farmland to take care of. Convenient, economical, and reliable!
Thanks for Watching!!
Cherry was the name of Suzuki Carry. All the trucks had names given to them by their owners.
Hiroyuki Niigata we have in stock over 180 cars jdm rhd
Hafa Adai all the way from Las Vegas! Cherry trucks makes me wanna get one so bad. Honda is my pick btw lol
Hafa Adai Vegas👌🏾👌🏾Yes I like the Honda too....ill be test driving a Subaru later and another Daihatsu👍🏾👍🏾
Really enjoyed watching your video!
Thank you for the excellent breakdown. I'm surprised you don't have more subs, I like your style! I stumbled upon this video whilst trying to understand Kei trucks. Unfortunately I live in one of the few states (California) where its neigh impossible to get one street legal. I still want one for my ranch and off-roading though. I'm thinking maybe a Suzuki Carry 93-95 year with a dump bed, diff-lock, and A/C that's not in too rough of shape. Am I dreaming haha? I definitely feel like I'm going down a rabbit hole haha. Anyway thanks again for the great comparison video!
Thank you for watching and i'm glad the video helped. You can find that Suzuki caryy it will just take time, check with some reputable car exporters from Japan and tell them what you want...it will be found but it will take time👍🏾👍🏾
@@livingthislife Thanks for the reply and advice!
@@Gupadodo i made a video regarding using a Japanese exporter...check it out👍🏾
@@livingthislife Will do, right after I finish your Sambar review. Might have to consider one of those too haha!
I've been shopping too, and I feel the same way, but a dump bed Carry with diff lock is a pretty realistic dream, I've seen a few around.
I've been trying to find one of the ones that's a scissor lift *and* a dump bed, that's turned out to be a lot harder.
Thanks man, I really appreciated showing you in it with your height, too. I'm taller and was curious.
Get one...ez to work on👍🏾👍🏾
Would Susuki be ok for 6’2” drivers?
I think around the year 2000, the front wheels were moved forward and should result in a smoother ride. Fuel injection was added.
Thanks a bunch for this review. I'm shopping now and your video has helped me a lot.
Thanks for watching🤙🏾🤙🏾Which truck are you considering?
I love showing my JP friends how gaijins are obsessed with old-ass work trucks found in every street corner in Japan and all over Asia. These are the most boring and ubiquitous vehicles in Japan 😂
Not just gaijins even Japanese...the kei street scene started in japan..before covid I traveled there often and I would show up car shows with lots of modded keis👍🏾
Considering how absurdly fucking huge all the trucks are in America it’s really fucking cool to own a tiny version of it, I mean I’m 6’2” and it’s devastating knowing I’ll never be able to fit my 外人 ass in a Kei car 🤣 I’d still buy a kei car in the future especially a AZ-1 if I could just because of how fucking cool Kei cars are.
They are rampant in the philippines and we convert the steering wheel to the left cause it looks dumb and dangerous😂😂 We call it "easyride" over there and now there are newer ones called zuzuki transformers 😂😂😂 saves hella gas
Zuzuki🤙🏾🤙🏾
My pal here said that suzuki is prone to differentia slip on uneven road
Where I live in the USA, AC is mandatory. It gets so dang hot and humid for so long during part of the year that trying to live without AC in a vehicle is torture. I tried it for a few years and nearly had heat strokes every year I tried it. I plan on either getting a kei truck or kei van (or both?) in the future and whatever I get must have working AC or an AC that can be repaired. I'm considering a Honda for either/both.
I have a honda truck with A/C and unfortunately most Kei truck ac systems dont get that cold...compared to modern cars, but definitely worth getting for hotter areas. Now it's all I look for when I buy a kei vehicle👍🏾👌🏾
@@livingthislife are kei truck a/c system are cold as other vehicles?
@@karlanthonybarraca1641 its been my experience that they are not as cold, however if you get dark tint it stays cool inside.
@@livingthislifeok. So suzuki carry a/c also on par w/ older vehicles like 1990s vehicle with right?
Living This Life I'm working on importing a kei truck... are you happy with your Acty? Any issues? Thanks
Subaru Samber K-truck is always the best in Japanese K car history.
OK but why?
in the 🇵🇭 the suzuki carry is everywhere
Suzuki makes the most Kei Trucks👍🏾
SCHWEET write up. Thanks, man!
Thank you🤙🏾🤙🏾
Im living in the Philippines and these are the workhorse vehicles here
They're also converted to Left Hand Drive in the Philippines
I live on an Island as well but we do not have the 25 year age restrictions on importation.
I like the older design with the front wheels further back. Seems to have more legroom from pictures.
Also they turn tighter that way, thats why I wanted the older ones - I have lots of trees to dodge. Or to Daihatsu, as the case may be...
Excellent comparison Information. Many Thanks
Thank you for the feedback👍🏾👍🏾
Great comparison! Thx! I plan to buy one soon.
Let me know what you get🤙🏾🤙🏾
Thank you!! Most informative & useful video!!
Good stuff brotha... great stuff! wait until the big brothers of the kei truks turn 25, they're much more comfortable and versatile!
I hear you...there are some models I'm eyeing🤙🏾🤙🏾
Nice job on your video here. I'm in the states and need to angle with a little bit of freeway driving. To me that would be about 65 mph. I'm pretty sure these would be a handful at that speed. Any of these Kei Trucks more freeway friendly? Sounds like the Honda is at the moment.
One thing many people don't realize is that these were everyday trucks in Japan. They weren't babied or pampered. And after 25+ yrs, they are still driving pretty dang solid!
Honda is your worst option by a country mile. Their rated top speed is 60 and most of them struggle over 50 55
I’m planning to get one for my home maintenance business, I want to get one with a cube at the back and I will modify a ladder rack system on top. This could save a lot of gas and I’m still able to carry 28 feet ladders.
Great video very helpful. I think I'm going to order the 1998 suzuki carry.
Awesome comparison. Thanks for the video - looking at getting a mini truck in the spring. Cheers!
Once you get one you'll realize how much fun and useful they are.
own f6a suzuki surplus its very good even at his age and rust u cant go wrong with this unit
Thx you so much for this view. If you want a Left-control version from the Daihatsu Hijet. in Europe has also exist the Hijet, also License-Build by Piaggio, Named "Piaggio porter"
Really good review, thanks for posting.
Thanks for your hard work and video content!
Appreciated🤙🏾🤙🏾
@@livingthislife I know what its like making content and often people only post neg shit. Best of luck in 2020-2024-2030
Have you seen this mini truck before - Japanese Mini Truck - Zombie Apocalypse Edition ruclips.net/video/eCylSGEZ6pQ/видео.html
I’m really love HONDA ACTY!
I live in Philippines and have the Suzuki. Has plenty of power i was surprised. I put on 14" wheels and a lift kit. Mine is a left hand drive. I also have the half cap on the back with jump seats. I have never seen this option on any in the states.
Great video. Clear and to the point.
Thanks for watching👍🏾👍🏾🤙🏾
Super helpful video. Thanks!
Would wanna get a Subaru sambar, fire truck version. Going to save up
Those are very cool trucks🤙🏾
This was very informative. Thank you
Thank you, great video!
The suburu sambar is better for long distance driving won't overheat like some of the other kei trucks
I feel the hijet is supeior to the rest as they come with 2 diff locks if you look around, and as kei trucks all have very limited wheel articulation if a kei trunk doesent have at least 1 diff lock they are next to useless.
we imported about 35 of them over 3 years and lifted them, added turf or tractor tires 8 inch on front and 12 inch wide on back and sold them to farmers
some where rego and sold with 2 set of tires.
also sold a Honda acty van to a hot pie man cost him 50 dollars per week to run compared to his express van thing that cost 200 dollars per.
the Suzuki and hijet we brought showed the hijet to be the better truck didn't bring in the Honda in truck form as they are pretty rare in nargoya.
the hi jet just didn't break down as often, and due to 2 diff locks was very hard to stop when the lift kit was installed.
I still have my Hijet aka Dreams.....and it's a great truck sp110 1995👍🏾👍🏾
How can you tell if one of these things has diff locks? Are they electronic or is there a lever somewhere?
@@SamsMotors the diff lock are the same on all brands that have them e.g Suzuki and Daihatsu, electric switch over vacuum system and switches are manual, are very obvious so if you cant see any you can assume it dont have any diff locks.
so if real 4 by 4 is your plan move on.
as there useless with out them in medium to hard 4 by 4 ing.
@@peterhatton7558 thanks Peter. So the Honda and Subaru didn't get diff locks then?
It's not totally necessary for what I want to do but nice to have the capability. I've heard that the Daihatsu are the more solid and well built than the other makes too - is that true?
and of cause you can just look at rear diff it will have vacuum chamber on it its got diff lock all will have one on back diff some,.... the holy grails will have one on front diff their for truck will proudly display stickers saying double diff lock.
rare as hens theeh but.
we Youse to sell them with 8 inch wide front and 12 wide grass tires or tractor tread to farmers.
would make a spacer to fit under the top of the front struts and cut rear spring shackles in half and weld in about 2 inch's to raise the little trucks up.
i am out the great barrier reef at the moment and boat keeps swinging on the anchor dropping internet out driving me crazy so if you do buy one.
and want to ask any more things I will ancer them when back on land.
Hafa adai E!
Enjoyed your video! looking on getting one of those kei Truck....
Hafa Adai👌🏾👌🏾get one my friend...you'll have fun👍🏾
The import laws have changed a bit, you can import brand new mini trucks now, twin cities has 2022 models available right now
Whoa...that's interesting news
What!?! Where to? Import new Kei trucks, to the USA?
Awesomeness
Good video. Thanks for the info
How would you find, buy or order one of these?
What's an average cost?
I've seen these when visiting other countries and for me, this type of truck would fit my needs perfectly..
Thank you,
Steve
I made a video on my channel about a Japanese Exporter...check it out..it may answer some of your questions👍🏾
In WA they go from 6k-12k (pandemic was a max of abt 10k)
Would die to have one the places I go fishing are way out in the sticks those can get there no more dragging gear out to the spot by hand and making 3 trips before I can cast out plus I can drive it there from home awesome
And they're easy to work on too, get one🤙🏾🤙🏾
Starting to see K20 and K24 swaps being done on the ACTY. I’m sure you could put the Honda K motor in any of them, but I would always go with Honda and put the best possible motor that fits. Even a budget B20 swap would make for a stout power plant in those little trucks.
Donuts everywhere with that motor!
I like the engine placement on the Honda not only because of heat and it would seem better front to rear weight distribution. Do any share engines with motorcycles
I'm not sure
Nie to know K truck also being used in Guam. Is mini truck still on the rise ? Are they mainly used for agricultural use and theme park ?
Love carry suzuki
Very well done! The information you gave is pretty hard to find. One improvement would be get a lapel mic, maybe bluetooth, it would keep your audio even. Great job!
You're right i've been thinking about adding bluetooth mic when I do reviews or walkarounds. Thanks for the input, always appreciated👍🏾👍🏾👌🏾
Very good video
Hafa Adai! Thank you for the good video review. I’m just curious, as you mentioned in the video, why does it’s better to have no air-con on kei trucks? I’m thinking to get one kei truck as well. Thank you.
Ac is ok but usually not as cold and the cabin is small so don't really need it.
@@livingthislife I see. Thank you, sir!
Suzi is cuter than the others too :)
Thanks for the great comparison video. Very useful for people in the market for one of these utilitarian vehicles. Will four foot wide plywood or drywall fit in the bed without folding down the sides?
The bed is a little over 4ft wide by 6ft long. So you would only need to put down the rear bed rails/tailgate.
@@livingthislife - Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my question.
I'm close to dreaming about a kei truck enough to make that dream a reality. :-)
@@Liberty4Ever let me know what you get🤙🏾
Hafa adai! Had a feeling you were in Guam. It’s beautiful. Should be the same rules to drive in Saipan? Thinking about bring them in.
It should be the same requirements but to be on the safe side contact the local Customs office.
Roger. Much appreciated!
You may have gone over this in another video, but what do you know about adding AC to a Kei truck? I live in Georgia and it gets really hot and humid for most of the year. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Take care and I also like seeing the beautiful views of Guam! Peace
It can be done however it may cost alot. Im sure in your area you can find a shop to provide something aftermarket...again at a price. You may want to consider buying a truck with ac.
@@livingthislife Thank you for the advice! Take care and thanks for the videos. Peace
NICE REVIEW THANKS
Thank you..peace👍🏾
th
Thanks for making the video. I was trying to decide on wether to get the Suzuki or the Daihatsu. After watching I decided on the Suzuki. Have you noticed any problems with rust? How many miles on the Suzuki you own? They are going for anywhere between 6k to 8k where I live......I guess that's reasonable? Thoughts?
I've owned a few Suzukis with mileage ranging from 10000 to over 100000 miles. They're very reliable and easy to work on and have a great aftermarket options. Great choice🤙🏾🤙🏾regarding rust if you come across any take care of it quickly but I really never had issues....keep in mind they're 25 years old.
@@livingthislife I ended up with a 95 Daihatsu Hijet 13,600 miles. I'm curious, have you bought any tires? 145R12's? Also, was told to run 5w30 full synthetic. sound right to you? Any advice is helpful. Thanks man.
@@markstaley6757 5w or 10w 30 is good just depends really on your weather conditions if it's colder 5w30. I prefer synthetic oil too better for older vehicles and vehicles with EFI. I recommend using a gas treatment for your gas and efi system, I'm assuming your hijet has efi...use it every 4 months or so. I'll get back to you on the tires that I'm using now, but I'm sure I matched the stocks.
@@livingthislife jo
Hafa Adai from Georgia. A Kei would be fun in Guam.
Hafa Adai🤙🏾🤙🏾
Tx for the comparison. what about the sanbar? and with AWD you said the Honda comes with a 5 speed? Rich
I made a vid on the sambar...yes Honda has 5 speed🤙🏾
I' ve also noticed that the name of the back also called wagon
Awesome video, thanks. What size tires did you mount on those rims?
Awesome video👍
Thank you 🤙🏾🤙🏾let me know which you get👍🏾
@@livingthislife
Hi!! Im not even sure if those are allowed in Canada
Being 4wd would you consider them beach viable? I’ve been looking for a cute beach toy lol.
Yes...I've used my truck for the beach and hiking...just don't drive it on soft sand the narrow tires will get you stuck.
Hey pare, I'm also from Guam. Great comparison video. Planning on purchasing a KEI truck so this video answered a ton of questions that I had. I do have one to ask though. Did you buy your truck on island or did you did you purchase yours online? If so which website did you go to? Thanks brother!
If your interested send me a DM or email...I have a Honda 4X4 with new paint that you may want👍🏾🤙🏾go to my channel hit about and my instagram is there its 1erskin.
@@livingthislife Ok will do
I don't know if you are a Fil-Am but you look like one. If ever you are, you sure haven't been in the Philippines! Japanese Kei trucks are so common in the Visayas and Mindanao, Luzon now has these too. The right hand drive as they arrive are converted to left hand drive, so too are the dash boards! You can watch RUclips blogs of Surplus TV.
I'll check out Surplus TV. I need to visit the Philippines again....it's been long time sine I've been there. Great food and people in the PI👍🏾🤙🏾
Thank you so very much. I like the Honda. How would it do on sand ? I live Kauai. Mostly road hauling of soup kitchen supplies. To get down the beach once in a while would be a nice. Thanks again. Good Video. ALOHA.
The stock tires are thin. You might want to use a wider tire on 4x4...ive driven on loose soil similiar to sand without issues. Aloha👍🏾
I've seen people running UTV rims on them without too much trouble, maybe look into that, that gives you a lot more options.
Damn I really miss Guam
I have suzuki carry da16t and subaru sambar❤❤❤
Daihatsu are the best. Believe me they are unbreakable.
They are heavy duty trucks👌🏾👌🏾
@@livingthislife Their cars are amazing, if you look after them they can last 30 plus years.
Great ViD
How come no Subaru Sambar? I would like to know how it compares to the other Kei trucks.
I made a video on the sambar...check out my channel🤙🏾
Hafa adai, par! How are the maintenance on these trucks. Are you able to source parts for them?
Basic maintenance, oil change etc are fast and easy on these trucks. The hardest thing I had to do so far is change an alternator belt, which wasn't difficult. They made a tons of these trucks and they are still produced to this day, parts a readily available online.
Ever do a review on the Subaru Sambar? Wondering how that compares to the 3 in this video. 🤔
Yes it's on my channel...titled 'sambar the demon of kei trucks'
Thanks 🛻 👍
I saw one suzuki kei truck got stuck on a paved city road because of differential slip after tried to cross over uneven asphalt road at stop point
Didn't one of the brands have a larger, taller cab? Also do the manual 4wd's ever have a locker or limited slip in the front? I know some have one in the rear with a dash switch to engage but how about the front? Useful in snow country or mud. Thanks. Doug
I know Subaru has a taller cab truck the sambar...ill make a video with that model which Francis now owns and its 4 cylinder. Yes some models have a locking diff.
@@livingthislife I know some have it in the rear but I haven't yet seen one in both front and rear. This would mean when running a manual 4wd even with a rear locker the front would be an open axle I.e., the tire with the least traction gets all the power. The acty with awd is a better setup for snow especially if it has a low range. Something to consider here in snow country. Thanks. Doug
@@douglasthompson2740 Now I see why the honda acty has advantages for the snow compared to the others 👍🏾👍🏾Im getting a 1995 daihatsu super deluxe...which is an auto 5 speed..ill make vid for that when it arrives.
@@livingthislife cost
@@pieluvr7362 Around 3 to 5k shipped to your location and depending on vehicle condition because they are over 25 yrs old.
All Has Good Engines.. But Pick the Daihatsu.. Or the Honda.... For Chassis abd Body Durability..
Daihatsu parts apeare costly, hard to find and mostly available from overseas. Not many US provider's and they are proud of their parts.
A family friend has a Suzuki that was used on a deer lease that I’m looking into buying off of him. It’d be a fun project car, only thing is it has a diy camo paint job. 😂
Thanks for the comparison review.
A question about the locking gas caps.
Do they all use the same key as for the doors and ignition?
Its been my experience that it will turn and open with almost any key.
Ah. Alright. Thank you.
Yes one key all jdm rhd cars only one