The Daihatsu Copen (2003-2009) is another kei car that was sold in the UK officially. This one has an electrically retractable hard top – but watch out for rot. The Mazda MX-5 is another model to shortlist, because it’s much more readily available, great fun to drive and even relatively practical.
What to look for
Rust in peace
The Cappuccino was poorly rustproofed, so corrosion is common. Look for rot in the floorpans, sills and wheelarches, although it’s often hidden by the plastic lower panels, which are purely cosmetic.
Panel work
The roof panels, boot lid and bonnet are made of aluminium, which keeps the weight down, but they get dented easily. Replacements are hard to find and when they do crop up, they’re expensive.
All the gears?
Most Cappuccinos (including all UK-supplied cars) come with a five-speed manual gearbox. The synchromesh wears, especially on second gear, so see if it crunches as you swap cogs. Repairs are expensive.
Belt up
Pre-facelift Cappuccinos had a cambelt that should be replaced every five years or 60,000 miles. Later cars had a chain-driven cam, so no belt. Engines and turbochargers are durable.
Interior
The dash may be dated, but it’s easy to get on with, and everything you need is there. This is also a brilliantly adaptable car, because it easily converts between fully open and fully closed, or there’s a half-way targa-style option. But it’s strictly a two-seater, and the boot is small; it’s only just big enough to stow the removable roof panels.
Prices
There is rarely a significant number of Cappuccinos for sale at any given time, so you’re unlikely to be spoiled for choice, while there are also a few in Japan, offered by specialist import companies.
