The Daihatsu Rocky 2.8 TD with a Vanmaster Ovation 480 ET with an actual weight of 1480 kg is a match suitable for most journeys, sometimes with some limitations.
The motor preformance of the Daihatsu is in general sufficient. And also the weight of the Vanmaster with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is not too heavy, if the caravan is well loaded.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
165
163
Mountains
Risk of snaking
127
147
Weight ratio: 77% (86% of kerbweight)
1480 kg
1925 kg
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Daihatsu Rocky 2.8 TD Vanmaster Ovation 480 ET
Actual Weights
Vanmaster Ovation 480 ET: 1480 kg.
Daihatsu Rocky 2.8 TD: 1925 kg.
Noseweight: 80 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 77%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 165 points).
Speeds of 67 mph (108 km/h) to 73 mph (118 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 163 points).
Slightly higher revs (1900 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 32.2 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally sufficient (score to compare 127 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads but the performance is not that great. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 10%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines the speed drops despite high revs.
A speed of 51 mph (83 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Daihatsu is more than sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, you will need a B+E (or B96) driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 77%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 86%.
There is a small chance of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are great at high speed. For drivers with knowledge of, and experience in driving a caravan it is safe to drive, but proper and careful loading is still important! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is worth considering.
Recommended noseweight is 80 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 147 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is sufficient.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a good match, sometimes with some limitations.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.