Market Position:
The Suzuki Sierra (and its Holden Drover rebadge) was a compact, rugged, and highly capable off-road vehicle. It competed in a segment of small 4x4 utility vehicles, often favored for its affordability, simplicity, and off-road prowess. It was popular for recreational use, light commercial applications, and as a base for custom builds.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the early Suzuki Samurai (same platform), Daihatsu Feroza, and Jeep CJ-series in some markets. Its key differentiators were its compact size, lightweight construction, and robust ladder-frame chassis.
Key Features:
Lightweight construction, ladder-frame chassis, selectable 4WD system, compact dimensions ideal for off-road maneuverability and tight spaces, relatively simple mechanicals for ease of maintenance.
Coverage Areas:
Suzuki Sierra, Holden Drover QB (1985-1987)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual, Owner's/User Manual
Page Count Estimate:
Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era, actual count not specified in product data)
Systems Covered:
Engine (G13A), Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, Interior Components, Emissions Control, HVAC (if equipped)
Procedures Included:
General Maintenance, Periodic Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Adjustments, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and fluid changes to detailed engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and chassis repairs. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Primary Engine:
1.3L G13A Watercooled I4
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 75.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 60-65 HP @ 5500-6000 RPM (engine specific tuning and market variations may apply)
Torque Est:
Approx. 90-95 Nm @ 3000-3500 RPM (engine specific tuning and market variations may apply)
Fuel System:
Carbureted (likely a 2-barrel carburetor, e.g., Aisan or similar)
Cooling System:
Watercooled
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system (points or electronic ignition depending on specific model year/market)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, availability may vary)
Drivetrain:
Selectable 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) with High/Low range transfer case
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate, diaphragm spring type (for manual transmission)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2030 mm (80 inches) for the SWB model
Length:
Varies by body style (Short Wheelbase, Long Wheelbase, etc.). SWB approx. 3200 mm.
Width:
Varies by body style. Approx. 1500-1600 mm.
Height:
Varies by body style. Approx. 1670-1700 mm.
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 800-950 kg, depending on body style and equipment
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 205/70R15, 215/75R15, or similar all-terrain tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x139.7 mm (5x5.5 inch)
Wheel Offset:
Typically ET0 to ET-10
Crash Test Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings commonly available from modern agencies for this era/model; designed to basic safety standards of the time.
Active Features:
Four-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum brakes (depending on market/spec). Low range gearing for engine braking.
Passive Features:
Seat belts (likely lap and shoulder belts for front occupants), basic metal body structure.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 40,000 miles) or 2-3 years
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 40,000 miles) or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact recommendation, especially for ambient temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 - 3.5 Liters (3.4 - 3.7 US Quarts) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Manual: GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90; Automatic: Dexron II or equivalent
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issues:
Rust (especially on chassis, body mounts, and suspension components), differential breather tube clogging leading to seal failure, carburetor tuning issues, worn clutch components, noisy wheel bearings, potential for steering wander due to suspension wear.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 51372, Fram PH3593A (verify with manual for exact fitment)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 42320, Fram CA8423 (verify with manual for exact fitment)
Brand Heritage:
Suzuki has a long history of producing small, robust, and capable off-road vehicles, starting with models like the LJ series. The Sierra/Samurai lineage is a direct continuation of this expertise.
Model Evolution:
The Sierra (known as Samurai in many markets) was introduced globally in the early 1980s as a successor to the SJ series. It represented a significant evolution in terms of refinement and capability for Suzuki's mini-off-roader line. The Holden Drover was a rebadged version of the Suzuki Sierra/Samurai, sold in Australia to expand Holden's light vehicle offerings.
Production Years Global:
1981-2004 (various generations and names globally)
Production Location:
Japan (for Suzuki models), Australia (for Holden Drover)
