Daihatsu Opti

Daihatsu Opti
Overview
Also called	Daihatsu Opti Classic
Production	1992-2002
Powertrain
Engine	659 cc petrol
Chronology
Predecessor	Daihatsu Leeza
Successor	Daihatsu Esse

The Daihatsu Opti is a kei car produced by Japanese automaker Daihatsu from 1992 to 2002. It is available with a 659 cc petrol engine and either front- or four-wheel drive. It is a better equipped variant of the Daihatsu Mira. The Opti name refers to both "optimistic" and "optimum."^[1]

First generation

Daihatsu Opti (first generation) L300S
Overview
Production	1992-1998
Body and chassis
Body style	3-door and 5-door hatchback
Related	Daihatsu Mira L200
Powertrain
Engine	659 cc EF-KL I3 659 cc EF-EL 12v I3 659 cc EF-ZL DOHC 12v I3
Transmission	3- or 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,280 mm (89.8 in)
Length	3,295 mm (129.7 in)
Width	1,395 mm (54.9 in)
Height	1,395 mm (54.9 in)
Curb weight	660 kg (1,455 lb)

Daihatsu Opti Parco three-door, rear view

Daihatsu Opti Classic five-door

The first generation Daihatsu Opti code named L300S was launched in Japan in January 1992, after having been previewed at the 1991 Tokyo Motor Show as the "Daihatsu X-409".^[2] The round appearance was conceived around a "ultra lovely" theme and was aimed at female buyers. Specifications were also higher than usual in the Kei class, with ample sound insulation and additional rust protection. All models originally came with a fuel injected, single-cam, four-valve straight-three with 55 PS (40 kW). The Opti was built on the L200 chassis of the Daihatsu Mira. It was available as a three-door hatchback and replaced the Daihatsu Leeza; an electrically operated Canvas Top was also available. A 4WD model (Aℓ-4) was also available (L310). In September 1992 the Ox, Ax, and Aℓ-4 trim levels were joined by the low-priced Ad, the somewhat sportier Ad-S, and the luxurious Ad-I which also has a driver's side airbag.^[3] The Ad model got a two-valve version of the EF engine with 42 PS (31 kW).

In December 1992 the Opti Club Sport arrived, a version with 13-inch aluminium wheels, sports suspension, and a MOMO steering wheel, only available in metallic black. The Club Sport was also featured in Gran Turismo 2. In August 1993 a five-door variant arrived, as well as the lower-priced Pico model. In May 1994 the Pico S was introduced; this version combined the Pico specifications with the sporting additions of the Club Sport. Three-door automatics were upgraded to a four-speed unit. In February 1995 the Opti sticker on the right side of the bonnet was replaced with a centrally placed shield logo. At the same time the Parco special edition, equipped with a roof spoiler, was introduced. In October the SOHC 12-valve EF-EL engine was replaced with a DOHC version (EF-ZL), which also equipped the new Pico Limited. The Canvas Top option was discontinued. In May 1996 the retro Opti Classic model was introduced, featuring an eye-catching chrome grille and various other detail touches including leather trim pieces inside. A driver's side airbag also became standard across the range, reflecting new regulations. In May 1997 the front bumper and taillights were changed, with the rectangular grille replaced by an opening shaped like a sad mouth. The Classic was also changed cosmetically and the chromed Classic emblem was no longer mounted on the bonnet. In August 1997 the Club Sport model was reintroduced as a permanent member of the lineup (FF or 4WD) - still a sporty three-door with MOMO touches, it was now based on the Classic model. In December 1997 the Parco Classic limited edition was introduced. In November 1998, as kei car regulations were changed, the Opti L300 was replaced by the second generation.

Second generation

Daihatsu Opti (second generation)
Overview
Production	1998-2002
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Related	Daihatsu Mira L500
Powertrain
Transmission	3- or 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,360 mm (92.9 in)
Length	3,395 mm (133.7 in)
Width	1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Height	1,405 mm (55.3 in)
Curb weight	740 kg (1,631 lb)

Daihatsu Opti rear

The second-generation Daihatsu Opti was launched in Japan in November 1998. It was based on the modified L500 chassis from Daihatsu Mira. It was available as a four-door saloon in two different styles - Opti and Opti Classic (launched in 2000). It was discontinued in 2002, but was not replaced until 2005, by the Daihatsu Esse. The high-performance model, called the Opti Aerodown Beex, was only sold in Japan.

References

External links

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