🚗 Daihatsu Copen Restoration – A Quirky Japanese Sports Car We Couldn’t Resist
Daihatsu Copen Restoration with Kinmel Campers, we’re best known for high-quality Japanese campervan imports, professional campervan conversions, and reliable mobile camper services across North Wales and beyond. But now and then, a vehicle comes along that’s too unique to pass up—even if it’s not a camper
Our latest project? A Daihatsu Copen restoration that’s already turning heads in our workshop. This pint-sized convertible coupe came to us as a part-finished project, needing a fresh pair of eyes, skilled hands, and a bit of Kinmel Campers magic to bring it back to life.
🏁 What Is the Daihatsu Copen?
The Daihatsu Copen is a Japanese kei car with a turbocharged engine, distinctive styling, and a surprising amount of personality packed into a compact body. Designed for urban fun with a sporty twist, it’s a convertible that’s light, agile, and perfect for anyone who wants to stand out on the road.
Originally launched in the early 2000s, the Copen quickly gained a cult following, especially among fans of small Japanese performance vehicles. With its lightweight build, retractable hardtop roof, and peppy performance, it delivers a fun driving experience in a tiny package.
📦 How This Project Came to Kinmel Campers
Although our workshop is usually filled with Toyota Alphards, Mazda Bongos, and Nissan Elgrands, this quirky little coupe caught our attention the moment we saw it.
We’ve got a passion for all things Japanese, and when this Copen popped up as a stalled project, we didn’t hesitate. It had great bones—a clean chassis, unique character, and plenty of potential. It just needed some love, some welding, and a lot of professional attention.
🔧 Our Daihatsu Copen Restoration Plan
At Kinmel Campers, we never do things by halves. While this isn’t a full-size campervan, it’s getting the same level of care and attention we give to every van we convert or import.
✅ Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Restoration:
- Welding & Underside Repairs
The underside of the Copen needed attention—typical for imports of this age. Our rust repair team assessed the sills, arches, and structural areas to restore the body to safe, MOT-ready condition. - Bodywork & Paint Prep
Small dings, dents, and faded panels are being addressed in our workshop. The vehicle is undergoing a partial respray to return the silver paintwork to its former glory. - Engine Health Check & Servicing
A full engine inspection, including new filters, fluids, spark plugs, and belts. We’ll also tune the engine and ensure the turbocharger is working efficiently. - Suspension & Brakes
Handling is crucial in a car like this. We’re checking shock absorbers, bushes, and brake components to ensure a sharp, safe ride. - Roof Inspection
The folding hardtop is one of the Copen’s coolest features. We’re making sure all seals and motors are in perfect working order. - Interior Detailing
From deep-cleaning seats and carpets to freshening up plastics and dash trims, we’re ensuring the inside feels as good as the outside looks.
📸 Project Arrival: First Look at the Copen
When the Copen rolled into our yard on the trailer, it instantly sparked curiosity. You might have seen it featured on our social channels or during your visit to the workshop.
We knew straight away this would be a special build. Its compact, sporty shape and retro styling make it one of the most eye-catching vehicles we’ve worked on this year.
🧰 Not Just Campers – We Love All Japanese Imports
While our main business revolves around importing and converting high-quality Japanese campervans, our interest in Japanese vehicles doesn’t stop there.
We understand the value and appeal of JDM imports—vehicles like the Copen, which offer unique designs and experiences unavailable in most UK showrooms. Whether it’s a luxury Alphard or a sporty kei car, if it’s quirky, fun, and made in Japan, we’re interested.
This isn’t the first non-camper vehicle we’ve restored, and it won’t be the last. Our vehicle sales page showcases vans and occasional niche cars we’ve worked on and made road-ready for enthusiasts like you.
🛠️ Experience That Shows in Every Detail
What sets Kinmel Campers apart is our hands-on experience and commitment to quality. Whether we’re building a custom campervan interior or restoring a JDM import like this Daihatsu Copen, we apply the same high standards to:
- Welding and bodywork repairs
- Mechanical diagnostics and upgrades
- Professional finishing and detailing
- MOT prep and road-legal modifications
We’ve built a reputation across North Wales and beyond for being reliable, transparent, and obsessed with quality. Just take a look at our Campervan Conversions and Mobile Services to see how we approach every job with pride.
💬 What’s Next for the Copen?
Once the restoration is complete, we’ll be putting this Daihatsu Copen up for sale—and it’s bound to attract attention.
Whether you’re a Japanese car collector, a first-time buyer looking for something unique, or a weekend driver who wants a convertible with character, this Copen will make an excellent addition to any driveway.
Keep an eye on our Vehicles for Sale page, or better yet, contact us directly if you’d like to express interest in advance.
📍 Located in North Wales – Serving the UK
We’re based near Rhyl, North Wales, and offer nationwide delivery for many of our imports and conversions. Whether you’re local or from further afield, we’re happy to assist with:
- Campervan sourcing
- Vehicle restorations
- JDM vehicle sales
- Bespoke builds and upgrades
If you’d like to view the Copen once it’s ready, or explore other vehicles on offer, get in touch or book a visit.
🚨 Don’t Miss Out!
This Daihatsu Copen restoration is one of the quirkiest and most charming projects we’ve taken on—and it won’t hang around for long. With full restoration, fresh MOT, and expert finishing from the Kinmel Campers team, it’s a rare chance to own a slice of Japanese automotive history.
📣 Ready to Own a One-of-a-Kind Japanese Sports Car?
Check our Vehicles for Sale page regularly or contact us to be the first to know when the Daihatsu Copen is ready for sale.
Or, if you’re dreaming of something bigger—like a full custom campervan—explore our Campervan Conversions and get in touch today.
