Used 2012 Daihatsu Copen Convertible Coupe Review & Ratings

The Copen Convertible Coupe is a classic two door roadster in the mode of the Lotus ?lan of days gone by, The Copen was first presented by Daihatsu way back in 1999 at the Tokyo Motor Show, originally designed as a concept car. Daihatsu went on to launch the car commercially two years later and the hard topped Copen Convertible Coupe, based on Daihatsu's tried and tested front wheel drive platform, has gone on to build a cult following over the years across the World.

When it was first launched the Daihatsu Copen Convertible Coupe was even described as underpowered in many motor reviews. Surprising for such a small and light car till you discover that until 2007, the Copen was powered by a 0.7 liter engine, albeit a turbo.

From 2007 onwards the Daihatsu Copen Convertible Coupe has drawn its power from a 1.5 liter four cylinder, 16 valve electronic fuel injection dual overhead camshaft engine producing 86 horsepower and a torque level of 95 pounds. A lot of engine power for such a small and lightweight vehicle that comes paired with a five speed short stroke manual transmission. Suspension for the Copen has to be sharp as the vehicle sits so low on the ground and every bump will be felt. That's the reason why Daihatsu went for Macpherson struts, large diameter front and rear stabilizers, and front and rear gas shock absorbers for the car's suspension.

It goes without saying that driving the Daihatsu Copen Convertible Coupe on a less than even surface will add nothing to the car or its driver's health, although driving it on the open road can be a treat with the Copen's lightweight body and low center of gravity making for high engine power-to-weight ratio that truly enhances its road holding abilities for a focused sports driving experience.

People who actually buy a Daihatsu Copen Convertible Coupe know exactly what they are doing. The ultimate town car for the single person , it is a truly an eye-catcher more because of its diminutive proportions than anything else, At just 120 inches long and just 42 inches high you need to be extra supple just to get into it.

However once in the car, there is a surprising aura of spaciousness about it, and there is no real shortage of leg and head room, unless for the very tall. Carrying luggage will never be the Copen's strong suit, especially when the retracting roof is nestling in the trunk. Driving the Copen with the roof down is always worth doing, especially when you know that if the weather suddenly take a turn for the worst, you can always raise the roof literarily and automatically - and it only takes twenty seconds.