| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1980 |
| Production Years: | 1980 - 1985 discontinued in 1985 |
The Daihatsu Cuore (L55,L60), produced between 1980 and 1985, represents a classic compact hatchback of the early 1980s. Designed primarily for efficient city driving and economical use, this generation of the Cuore embraced small size and practicality. Typically classified as a supermini or kei car in certain markets, its compact dimensions made it ideal for urban environments where parking space and maneuverability are crucial. Although exact measurements may slightly vary between the L55 and L60 variants, the Daihatsu Cuore generally offered a length in the range of approximately 3,200 to 3,350 millimeters (126 to 132 inches), with a width around 1,400 to 1,440 millimeters (55 to 57 inches), and a height near 1,350 millimeters (53 inches). These dimensions reinforced its status as a small, easy-to-handle vehicle, lightweight and economical in fuel consumption. The hatchback configuration provided practical access to the cargo area, enhancing its utility despite its compact size. Weighing roughly between 700 to 800 kilograms (1,540 to 1,760 pounds), the Cuore L55/L60 was powered by efficient small displacement engines, emphasizing economy over outright power. This generation of Daihatsu Cuore appeals to enthusiasts of classic Japanese mini cars and those interested in early economical hatchbacks, maintaining a niche presence in the used and collector vehicle markets. Overall, the Daihatsu Cuore (L55,L60) remains an iconic example of early 1980s compact hatchback design focused on functionality, efficiency, and space optimization within a minimalist footprint.
Discover the standout features that make the 1980 Daihatsu Cuore a leader in its class
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The Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) produced from 1980 to 1985 is a compact hatchback with dimensions that reflect its kei car heritage. The length typically measures around 3,195 mm (125.8 inches), the width about 1,395 mm (54.9 inches), and the height approximately 1,360 mm (53.5 inches). These compact dimensions allow the Cuore to be very maneuverable and practical for urban driving. It strikes a balance between maximized passenger space and its small footprint ideal for city environments.
The Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) features a wheelbase of approximately 2,200 mm (86.6 inches). This relatively short wheelbase contributes to the car's nimble handling and ease of parking in tight spaces, underlining its nature as an urban hatchback. While the shorter wheelbase limits the interior space somewhat compared to larger cars, it is efficiently designed to offer adequate comfort for up to four passengers in a compact footprint.
The curb weight of the 1980-1985 Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) ranges around 650 to 700 kg (1,433 to 1,543 lbs), depending on specific trim and equipment. This lightweight construction benefits fuel economy significantly, enabling efficient city driving with minimal fuel consumption. Additionally, the lighter weight improves handling and responsiveness, making it easier to navigate congested urban streets and enhancing the overall driving experience of this compact hatchback.
Yes, the Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) easily fits into a standard garage. Given its compact dimensions of approximately 3,195 mm (125.8 inches) in length, 1,395 mm (54.9 inches) in width, and 1,360 mm (53.5 inches) in height, it requires minimal parking space compared to many larger vehicles. Most standard American or European garages, which typically measure about 6 meters (19.7 feet) in length and 3 meters (9.8 feet) in width, offer ample room for this car with plenty of clearance for doors to open and maneuver around.
The Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) hatchback is designed to comfortably seat four passengers, making it suitable for small families or urban commuters. The rear cargo space is modest but practical for its class, offering around 150 to 200 liters (5.3 to 7.1 cubic feet) of luggage capacity behind the rear seats. Folding the rear seats down expands cargo volume significantly, allowing for the transport of larger items while retaining the car's compact dimensions.
Compared to the previous generation of the Daihatsu Cuore, the L55/L60 generation introduced in 1980 features slightly more modern and aerodynamic styling while maintaining very similar compact dimensions. The length and width remain close to its predecessor's, with only minor increases in length for improved interior space and comfort. This evolution points to the focus on retaining the Cuore's kei car appeal by prioritizing maneuverability and economy while refining practical usability.
Within the kei car and small hatchback segment of the early 1980s, the Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) was quite competitive in terms of size. Its length of roughly 3.2 meters (10.5 feet) and narrow width make it similar in footprint to rivals like the Suzuki Alto and Honda Today. However, the Cuore was often praised for its efficient interior layout, making good use of its compact size. Compared to slightly larger subcompact hatchbacks such as the Toyota Starlet, the Cuore is more petite, favoring urban utility over cargo capacity.
The Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) was typically equipped with a small displacement engine, frequently a 547 cc two-cylinder or a slightly larger 659 cc three-cylinder engine, depending on market specifications and regulations. These small engines offered moderate power figures suitable for efficient city driving, typically delivering between 28 to 36 horsepower. The lightweight design combined with this modest power output allowed for excellent fuel economy, making the Cuore a very economical choice during the 1980-1985 production run.
The 1980-1985 Daihatsu Cuore (L55, L60) utilizes a front independent suspension system with MacPherson struts and a rear live axle with leaf springs or coil springs depending on market versions. This setup focuses on balancing cost and simplicity with ride quality. The front MacPherson struts provide decent handling and road feel, whereas the rear live axle is robust but less refined. Overall, the Cuore offers a comfortable and stable ride for city driving, with predictable handling suitable for its compact size and lightweight design.
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