Vehicle Segment:
Kei car (Japanese domestic market), compact city car
Key Competitors:
Suzuki Alto, Honda Life, Mitsubishi Minica, Subaru Vivio
Vehicle Appeal:
Fuel efficiency, maneuverability, compact size, affordability, reliability
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Clutch, Drive Shafts, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear Brakes, Parking Brake), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper and Washer System, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Windows/Locks (if equipped), SRS Airbag System
Body:
Body Exterior (Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid), Body Interior (Trim, Seats), Glass and Mirrors, HVAC System (Air Conditioning and Heating)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major components and subsystems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for repairing or rebuilding engine components, transmissions, suspension parts, etc.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts for electrical systems
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls)
Engine Code:
EF-SE (for L500S/L510S)
Engine Type:
659cc, 3-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, naturally aspirated or turbocharged (depending on variant)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 50-64 PS (naturally aspirated) / 64+ PS (turbocharged)
Torque Range:
Approx. 5.8-7.5 kg-m (naturally aspirated) / 7.7-8.5 kg-m (turbocharged)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (refer to manual for specific Daihatsu approved type, typically 50/50 mix)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 Liters (3.2 US Quarts) with filter (verify with manual)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (verify viscosity based on climate from manual)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (for automatic transmission, verify with manual)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Varies by transmission type (refer to manual)
Length:
Approx. 3,395 mm (Kei car regulations)
Width:
Approx. 1,475 mm (Kei car regulations)
Height:
Approx. 1,375 mm (varies with model)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 650-750 kg (depending on specification)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies (refer to vehicle compliance plate and manual)
Crash Test Results:
Limited data available for older Kei cars in international standards; primarily designed to Japanese regulations.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard on most models). ABS may be optional on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver airbag often standard, passenger airbag optional or standard on higher trims. SRS system coverage detailed in manual.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts (front and rear), pre-tensioners may be present.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player (CD players were rare options in this era)
ABS:
Optional on higher trim levels, not standard on all models
Connectivity Options:
Basic; primarily focused on vehicle operation, no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 km (4,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era, confirm with manual)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) or 24 months (typical, check manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) or 36 months (typical, check manual for specific plug type and gap)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) (verify with manual)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (verify with manual)
Common Wear Items:
Timing belt wear (critical, requires periodic replacement per manual), worn engine mounts, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion, clutch wear (manual transmission)
Electrical Quirks:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, potential issues with intermittent sensor failures
Engine Performance:
Loss of power, rough idle may indicate ignition system issues, fuel delivery problems, or vacuum leaks
Daihatsu Heritage:
Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., established in 1907, is Japan's oldest automobile manufacturer, known for producing small, efficient, and reliable vehicles, particularly Kei cars.
Cuore Evolution:
The Cuore nameplate dates back to 1977. The L500 series, introduced in 1994, was the fifth generation, succeeding the L200 series. It featured updated styling and improved engineering, remaining in production until 1998.
Production Period:
1994-1998
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Market Recognition:
Praised for its compact size and fuel economy in its home market, a staple of urban transportation in Japan.
Fuel Efficiency Ratings:
Excellent fuel economy for its era, typically exceeding 20 km/L (approx. 47 MPG) in favorable conditions.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with Japanese emission standards of the time.
