Daihatsu Copen (2007) CAR review

But this looks just like the last Copen? What's new about it?

The latest incarnation of the cheap 'n' cheerful little roadster from Daihatsu hasn't changed at all on the outside apart from an '80's-style 911 rear spoiler; what's important is under the quirky skin of this, the cheapest proper roadster on sale today. Out goes the old 660cc screamer, and in its place comes the 1.3 twin-cam from the Sirion supermini. This transplant means the Copen loses its genuine K-car status (lenient tax laws in Japan for micro cars under a certain length and with titchy engines under 660cc), but it should provide more performance - and for less cash. Don't forget the Copen is now £1500 cheaper than it was in 2004. But is it any good?

What’s so fun about it?

Fans of traditional British sports car should look favourably on the Copen, because it serves up the same thrills as MGs and Austin Healeys of the 1960s: small car, small engine but nippy and charismatic to boot. Only this one has a folding metal roof to convert it between a proper coupe and an open-air roadster at the flick of a switch. The Copen is far from the most macho car around, but it’s quite capable of slapping a grin across the face with its emphasis on no-nonsense simplicity at a bargain price. If only there were more sporty cars with a similar attitude...