Daihatsu Copen

First impressions

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According to some, it seems all the little Daihatsu Copen’s got going for it is the ability to make big blokes looks daft. Despite an enthusiastic chassis and a turbocharger, the original version of this miniature coupé-convertible – which arrived in the UK in 2004 – has been consigned to status as a second-rate fashion accessory for the girl about town. I say second-rate guardedly but let’s face it, the Daihatsu badge doesn’t have the strongest image appeal. The 660cc capacity of its original engine wasn’t exactly macho, either – if in keeping with the diddy dimensions that make it an authentic micro-sized ‘Kei-car’ in its Japanese homeland.
Pricing and spec for the Daihatsu Copen

Kei-car rules govern the external dimensions, engine size and power output. However, for 2007 Daihatsu has said to hell with the restrictions and shoehorned a 1.3-litre engine under the Copen’s tiny bonnet. Featuring Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT), this not only considerably improves performance, but also ups the fuel economy and refinement as well. Suddenly this modern day Midget seems a far more intriguing driving proposition; Daihatsu has even stuck on a boot spoiler to beef up the visuals. Enough to overcome the image ‘issues’ facing occupants (especially if they are male…)? Here’s where we find out.
Performance

It may well have a new 1.3-litre engine – stolen from the Daihatsu Sirion supermini, incidentally – but in most circumstances 86bhp wouldn’t sound like anywhere even approaching enough. But as with all things Copen, you need to recalibrate your sense of perspective. Even with the bigger motor, it still only weighs 850kg – which is less than a basic Ford Ka. Top speed is up to 112mph and 0-62mph takes 9.5 seconds. 2.2 seconds quicker than before – despite longer gearing for added motorway refinement – this matches junior fun hatches including the Fiat Panda 100hp, and betters Ford’s SportKa.