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Daihatsu V series: 1958–1970 cab-over trucks
Daihatsu V series — trucks built by the Japanese company Daihatsu from 1958 to 1970. These were medium-sized cab-over trucks. This article briefly covers their history, engines, and what collectors should know.
V series briefly
The V series were Daihatsu's first four-wheel-drive trucks since the 1937 Hatsudoki FA model. They competed with the Toyota Dyna, Nissan Caball, Isuzu Elf, Prince Homer, and Mazda D series trucks.
The series was produced from 1958 to 1970, and in October 1970, it was replaced by the Daihatsu Delta, based on the Toyota Dyna. These vehicles are practically unheard of in Lithuania, so they mainly appeal to classic truck enthusiasts.
Generations and names
The first V series truck was called the Daihatsu Vesta — a two-tonne class model introduced in 1958. In 1960, it was renamed to V200, and later the series expanded: V100 (1.25-tonne class, 1964), V300 (three-tonne), and diesel models D200 and D300.
In 1968, new versions for one and one-and-a-half tonne classes appeared, including the V100 (1 tonne) and V150. Due to naming overlaps, there was sometimes confusion in the market. Additionally, a medium-sized bus, the Daihatsu Light Bus, was also built on this chassis.
Engines
The original Vesta had a 1.5-litre V2 engine with around 53 PS. In 1960, it was replaced by a 1.5-litre inline-four FA with around 68 PS, and in 1962 by a 1.9-litre FB with around 80 PS.
Diesel versions came with a 2.3-litre DE (around 63 PS), while the three-tonne V300 was offered with a 2.4-litre FD petrol engine (around 95 PS). The diesel D300 had a 2.5-litre DG engine (around 72 PS).
What to check when buying a V series
The most important things are authenticity, body and chassis condition, as these trucks were often heavily used. Inspect the cab and cargo box for rust, and check the chassis and engine.
Parts are very rare, so before buying, find out if they can be sourced from Japan or classic truck collectors. A specialist inspection is essential.
Trim levels
The V series is divided by payload; below are the main variants.
V100 / V150
1964–1970Light-duty trucks.
- 1.25 t, later 1 t and 1.5 t classes
- 1.5-litre FA petrol engine
- Cab-over-engine design
V200
1960–1970The main model in the two-tonne class.
- FA (later FB) petrol engine
- Often — the diesel D200 version
- Cab-over-engine design
V300 / D300
1964–1970Three-tonne class truck.
- 2.4-litre FD petrol engine
- Often — 2.5-litre DG diesel engine (D300)
- Cab-over-engine design
Comparison of V series variants
| V100 / V150 | V200 | V300 / D300 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For lighter loads | For medium-duty loads | For heavier loads |
| Engine | 1.5-litre petrol | 1.5–1.9-litre petrol, diesel D200 | 2.4-litre petrol, 2.5-litre diesel |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | € |
V series trucks are only for collectors and enthusiasts of classic commercial vehicles. The key is not the specific version, but the condition and paperwork.
Pros
- A key part of Daihatsu's history
- Simple mechanics
- The cab-over-engine design makes the most of space
- A rare collector's item
Cons
- Very limited supply
- Parts are almost impossible to find
- An old model with a high risk of rust
Frequently asked questions
When was the Daihatsu V series produced?
1958–1970
What replaced the V series?
In October 1970, it was replaced by the Daihatsu Delta, based on the Toyota Dyna.
Which engines were used?
Petrol engines from 1.5–2.4 litres and diesels from 2.3–2.5 litres, depending on the model.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
