Stylish convertible from long-forgotten brand that no longer sells cars in the UK can be yours for less than £3k
A STYLISH convertible from a long-forgotten car brand can be yours for less than £3,000.
The manufacturer is seldom seen on UK roads in 2024 with new cars no longer sold overseas.
The very cute Daihatsu Copen is a two-door convertible ‘kei’ car sold by the Japanese marque from 2002 until 2012 – although it still appears to be available to buy in its homeland.
Daihatsu is one of Japan’s oldest surviving car makers, although they currently only sell their motors in Japan and Indonesia, as well as in Malaysia under the Perodua brand.
Following the financial crisis in 2008, the firm pulled out of the European market by 2013, meaning the only Daihatsu currently on UK roads are second-hand or specially imported.
Daihatsu are best known for their small SUVs such as the Sportrak and Terios, as well as the tiny Sirion hatchback.
The Copen, known for its cute looks and great economy, was reportedly inspired by the Nissan Figaro and Audi TT.
Top Gear legend James May is a fan of the little motor, after driving one in an episode of the show in 2003.
What is a 'kei' car?
A kei car is a small, lightweight motor that’s very popular in Japan – known for combining compact design with functionality.
These cars are limited in size, engine capacity, and power output, making them very fuel-efficient and easy to park in crowded areas. Kei cars are usually affordable to buy and run, and often feature clever designs to maximise interior space despite their compact size.
They are well-suited for city driving and are known for their practicality and economy.
He said: “It’s a sort of Sony Ferrari; same sort of thing, but smaller.”
Despite its relative rarity, with just 1,253 on UK roads with an active MOT according to How Rare Is My Car, the Copen can be bought for a bargain price.
Indeed, we found a model from 2006 on the AutoTrader website for just £2,199.
This example boasts 95,000 miles on the clock and is described by the seller as “a great buy for any car collector.”
Meanwhile, a high-class sports car with 186mph top speed can be yours for less than the cost of Britain’s cheapest new motor.
And a group of car experts has picked out five motors brilliant for the school run – including a bargain hatchback with plenty of space inside.