Flashback: D-MAX DNA in the Isuzu Wasp

1965: Before the D-MAX, came the Wasp; the first one-tonne Isuzu sold in Australia under the original Isuzu Name Badge

Based on the earlier released Bellett, the Wasp was Isuzu’s first one-tonne light commercial vehicle, built in Japan from 1963 to 1971. Two years after the model was released to the Japanese domestic market, Australia received its first and only shipment. All 122 units were painted Wasp Blue; two-thirds were cab chassis and the rest were utes.

The 1325cc in-line four-cylinder, water-cooled petrol engine generated 58hp (43kW) at 5,000rpm with a maximum torque of 70.9ft/lb (96Nm) at 1,800rpm and a top speed of 116kph. While the front axle had independent, torsion-bar suspension, the rear axle was semi-floating with a Hotchkiss drive. Clutch control on the four-gear Wasp was a dry single plate with damper. The KR20 retailed in Australia for £848, or £946 – which included a £98 premium for a factory-fitted tray built by coachbuilders in Australia.