Daihatsu Charade (1987) – Enthusiast Wanted

In the 1970s we had to deal with a major Japanese ‘invasion’ in the car field here in the west. One of the brands that wanted to try it here was the very Japanese-sounding Daihatsu. The Charade was one of the first models to be sold here and that was a direct hit in the Netherlands because of its size. It was a relatively large car for a Daihatsu, but it fit perfectly here between cars such as the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta. The primal Charade, the G10 with its (as three-door) striking ‘porthole’ in the C-pillar is really a rarity these days, but you don’t often find its successor either.

The Charade G11 appeared in 1983 and shook off some of the Japanese extravagance of its predecessor. It actually even became a completely safe model, with a nice European appearance. What was still nice and extravagant was the 1.0 three-cylinder that Daihatsu delivered in it. A three-cylinder was highly unusual at the time and Daihatsu already showed itself to be a true pioneer here with the G10. The G11 had it again, in different flavors. The most important thing was of course whether or not there was a turbo. In the case of this 1987 white, we may have to disappoint you: it has the naturally aspirated version that generates 52 horsepower. So a modest block, which was well put together and made the Charade nice and economical. Those were the two biggest plus points of the Charade.

Here at the editorial office we have a thing for Charades. The Daihatsu Charade G11, like this white one, was the first car the undersigned ever sat in. Or lay, rather. Colleague Jan Lemkes once started his car adventure with a Charade G100 and has had one again a few years ago. Colleague Lars Krijgsman likes almost anything called Daihatsu, especially if it dates from the last century.

So nice to come across one for sale again, even if it is not the freshest copy. That is to say: the exterior could use some love. He looks good eighties in white, but there is a brown edge here and there. Not unusual for Daihatsu’s from that time, by the way. The dent on the right rear is also a pity. It looks a lot neater on the inside and the limited mileage of only 111,905 km is more apparent. If you are purely looking for a cheap daily use car, you better look a little further or don’t expect too much and drive up this Charade. The latter would be a shame, so we hope that an enthusiast can be found who will fix it up. €1,250 is requested.