| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 2003 |
| Production Years: | 2003 - 2012 discontinued in 2012 |
Precise measurements of the 2003 Daihatsu Copen, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3395 mm133.7 in11.1 ft |
| Width: | 1475 mm58.1 in4.8 ft |
| Height: | 1245 mm49.0 in4.1 ft |
| Trunk Capacity: | 14 liter0.5 cu ft |
| Trunk Capacity (Max): | 210 liter7.4 cu ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 840 - 850 kg1852 - 1874 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 1040 kg2293 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Size: | 4.5Jx15 |
| Tire Sizes: | 165/50 R15 (W:165 | H:50 | D:15) 165/50R15 (W:165 | H:50 | D:15) |
The Daihatsu Copen (L8), produced from 2003 to 2012, is a compact cabriolet that combines sporty styling with practical urban dimensions. Measuring 3395 mm (133.5 inches) in length, 1475 mm (58.1 inches) in width, and standing 1245 mm (49 inches) tall, the Copen offers a nimble footprint ideal for city driving and easy parking. Its lightweight construction results in a curb weight ranging between 840 and 850 kg (1852 to 1874 lbs), allowing for agile handling and efficient performance. The vehicle supports a maximum weight of 1040 kg (2293 lbs), ensuring a well-balanced ratio between chassis and payload capacity. Despite its compact size, the Copen features a modest luggage capacity of 14 liters (0.5 cubic feet) with the top up or seats in place, which expands significantly to 210 liters (7.4 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded to maximize storage space. It rides on 15-inch rims sized 4.5Jx15 paired with 165/50 R15 tires, providing a sporty stance and responsive grip. This Daihatsu cabriolet remains a distinctive choice for enthusiasts seeking a small, stylish convertible that excels in urban environments while offering sufficient practicality for weekend adventures. Its compact size and lightweight build contribute to fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability, making the Copen a famous feature in the small vehicle segment.
Discover the standout features that make the 2003 Daihatsu Copen a leader in its class
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The Daihatsu Copen (L8) has compact dimensions designed specifically for urban agility and sporty driving. Its length measures 3395 mm (133.5 inches), width is 1475 mm (58.1 inches), and height is 1245 mm (49 inches). These dimensions give the Copen a low and sleek profile typical of cabriolet sports cars, making it easy to maneuver and park in tight city spaces while maintaining a sporty stance.
The curb weight of the Daihatsu Copen (L8) ranges between 840 kg to 850 kg (approximately 1852 to 1874 lbs), making it a lightweight vehicle ideal for spirited driving and fuel efficiency. Its maximum permissible weight, which includes passengers and load, is 1040 kg (2293 lbs). This lightweight characteristic contributes to its nimble handling and overall performance as a compact cabriolet.
The Daihatsu Copen (L8) offers a modest luggage capacity of 14 liters (0.49 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place, which is typical for a two-seater cabriolet focused on sporty driving rather than cargo. However, when the rear seats are folded down, the luggage space increases significantly to 210 liters (7.42 cubic feet), providing much more room for larger items or extra luggage, enhancing practicality for short trips.
Yes, the Daihatsu Copen (L8) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its compact size—3395 mm (133.5 inches) in length and 1475 mm (58.1 inches) in width—it's narrower and shorter than most modern vehicles. Its low height of 1245 mm (49 inches) also ensures that it clears standard garage doors with ease. The compact footprint makes it an excellent choice for urban dwellers or those with limited garage space.
The 2003 Daihatsu Copen (L8) was the first generation of the model, so there was no predecessor model. Therefore, size comparison to a prior generation does not exist. However, the L8 set the benchmark for small, agile, and stylish kei-class cabriolets when introduced, influencing future Japanese small sports cars with its compact dimensions and light weight.
The Daihatsu Copen (L8) is notably smaller than many other cabriolets from the early 2000s, thanks to its classification as a kei car in Japan. While many European or American convertibles like the Mazda MX-5 or the BMW Z3 are longer and wider—often over 4 meters (157 inches) long and 1.7 meters (67 inches) wide—the Copen's length of 3395 mm (133.5 inches) and width of 1475 mm (58.1 inches) make it one of the smallest convertible sports cars available. This compact size enhances urban usability but limits interior and cargo space compared to larger roadsters.
The Daihatsu Copen (L8) comes equipped with 15-inch rims sized at 4.5Jx15, paired with tires sized 165/50 R15. These tires feature a narrow width of 165 mm and a low profile sidewall of 50% aspect ratio, which complements the car's lightweight design and contributes to agile handling and responsive steering, characteristic of small, sporty cabriolet cars.
The Daihatsu Copen (L8) stands 1245 mm (49 inches) tall, giving it a low profile that enhances aerodynamic efficiency and stability at higher speeds. This low height contributes to a sporty, ground-hugging feel and helps lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, which improves cornering and handling dynamics. The low height may also create a more immersive driving experience typical of cabriolets, allowing occupants to feel closer to the road.
With a curb weight between 840 and 850 kg (1852 to 1874 lbs), the Daihatsu Copen (L8) is exceptionally light for a modern convertible. This lightweight design translates directly into improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and enhanced performance characteristics such as brisk acceleration and responsive handling. The low mass also helps reduce the strain on the engine and suspension components, which can prolong durability and reduce maintenance costs over time.
Produced from 2003 to 2012, the Daihatsu Copen (L8) marked Daihatsu's entry into the sporty kei car segment with its stylish and fun two-door cabriolet design. This generation featured a small but efficient engine tailored to Japanese kei car regulations, delivering spirited performance within a lightweight chassis. Throughout its production, it gained popularity for its unique blend of compact dimensions, open-top driving enjoyment, and innovative design features such as a retractable hardtop roof. Its long production run of nearly a decade reflected its success among enthusiasts looking for an affordable, nimble convertible ideal for city driving.
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