Hi I am looking at a few over the next week or so and would be grateful for any tips on what to look out for.. and also opinions on the 0.66 over the 1.3. For background, I love tiny sports cars.. my last baby was a Smart Roadster that leaked like a sieve but gave me immense happiness. Traded it in for a Toyota Aygo automatic in the hope that my youngest son could learn to drive (he's disabled) . So now I have a car that drives like a snail on valium... nothing wrong with that of course, but after a 700cc turbo before, it's a tad boring..and certainly doesn't have the smile factor. I have lusted after a Copen for quite a long time and there are a couple within 70 miles of me (Oxfordshire) to look at. I gather rusting is an issue. What else do I need to be aware of? This will be my middle age 'I AM going to pass my Taekwondo black belt on sunday' reward to myself and I cannot wait!!! (Can't wait for Sunday to be over either.. gulp!) JUles
Welcome to Copenworld! I have a 1.3 which I love but there will people who love there turbo copens. The main difference is that 1.3s are newer (and more expensive) but need less servicing as they have a Toyota engine rather than needing an oil change every 3000 miles. It all depends on what is available, your budget and which you prefer! This buyers guide should help. Daihatsu Copen Buyers Guide
Check the service history very carefully - if you go for a turbo version those 3000 mile oil changes are really important.
660 turbo engine is pretty reliable and good fuel economy. Check the roof mech and make sure it fold up and down properly. Mine doent I do oil change on wife's copen about every 10k km.
The little 660 engine needs an oil change every 5000km or half a year. Otherwise you risk turbo charger damage. Use synthetic oils (5W30, 5W40, 0W40). If the previous owner cannot give you documentation about service/oil changes, it is a good argument to lower the price or to walk away. Otherwise, check for rust (everywhere, under the boot, under the boot seal, engine bay, underneath, tank filler) and for oil leaks.
