Daewoo Espero
A Bertone-styled Korean saloon built on proven General Motors foundations.
- Power
- 95 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.8 s
- Top speed
- 112 mph
About the Daewoo Espero
The Daewoo Espero was a pivotal model for the South Korean manufacturer, marking its aggressive entry into the European market in the mid-1990s. While its mechanicals were derived from the ageing GM J-platform (shared with the Vauxhall Cavalier), its body was designed by the renowned Italian house Bertone. The 1.8 CD trim offered a competitive equipment list for its price point, including electric windows and air conditioning as standard. Today, it is a rare sight on UK roads, remembered more for its distinctive wedge-shaped styling and value proposition than its driving dynamics.
Daewoo Espero specs
The Daewoo Espero produces 95 bhp (71 kW) and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.8 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
| Make | Daewoo |
|---|---|
| Model | Espero |
| Trim | 1.8 CD |
| Years | 1990–1999 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | South Korea |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 95 bhp (71 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.8 s |
| Top speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,126 kg (2,482 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 84 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Daewoo Espero rarity in CarSpot
The Daewoo Espero is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 7 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Daewoo Espero fun facts
- The Espero's sleek Bertone design was originally proposed to Citroën as a potential successor to the BX before being rejected and sold to Daewoo.
- Despite its budget branding, the Espero boasted a remarkably low drag coefficient of 0.29, aiding its fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.
- In the UK, Daewoo famously bypassed traditional dealerships, selling cars through 'Daewoo Motor Showrooms' located in Halfords stores and shopping centres.

