Japan vs Japan — 2002 vs 1957
| Copen L880K | Midget MP | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 64 hp | 12 hp |
| Torque | 81 lb-ft | 14 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 305 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 40 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,830 lbs | 672 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,230 mm | 1,855 mm |
| Length | 3,395 mm | 2,990 mm |
| Units Produced | 70,000 | 338,000 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $20,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2002 Daihatsu Copen L880K brings more power, higher top speed, greater rarity to the table, and the 1957 Daihatsu Midget MP answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Daihatsu has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2002 Daihatsu Copen L880K with the 1957 Daihatsu Midget MP highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2002 Daihatsu Copen L880K holds a clear advantage in raw power with 64 hp compared to 12 hp, a 52-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Daihatsu Copen uses a Inline-4 DOHC Turbo displacing 659 cc, while the Daihatsu Midget relies on a Single-Cylinder OHV with 305 cc. The 2002 Daihatsu Copen L880K claims a higher top speed at 100 mph compared to 40 mph. The Daihatsu Midget carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1158 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 70,000 units built, the 2002 Daihatsu Copen L880K is considerably scarcer than the Daihatsu Midget's 338,000 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.