Daihatsu Compagno
The historic first Japanese car officially exported to the United Kingdom.
- Power
- 55 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 23.9 s
- Top speed
- 81 mph
- Est. value
- $11k–$22k
About the Daihatsu Compagno
The Daihatsu Compagno holds a significant place in automotive history as the first Japanese passenger car officially imported to the UK, arriving in May 1965. Designed by the Italian coachbuilder Vignale, it featured a stylish body mounted on a traditional ladder-frame chassis, a technical choice that was already becoming dated compared to monocoque rivals. The 1.0-litre 'FE' engine, introduced in 1965, provided a necessary power boost over the original 800cc unit, though performance remained modest. Despite its high standard equipment including a radio and whitewall tyres, only six units were sold in the UK during its initial five-year run due to high import duties and a lack of established dealer support.
Daihatsu Compagno specs
The Daihatsu Compagno produces 55 bhp (41 kW) and 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 23.9 seconds and has a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h).
| Make | Daihatsu |
|---|---|
| Model | Compagno |
| Trim | 1.0 Berlina |
| Years | 1963–1970 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 1.0-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 958 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 55 bhp (41 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 23.9 s |
| Top speed | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 755 kg (1,664 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 73 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Daihatsu Compagno worth?
A typical Daihatsu Compagno is estimated to be worth $11,000 – $22,000 (about £8,200 – £16,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Daihatsu Compagno rarity in CarSpot
The Daihatsu Compagno is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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.
Daihatsu Compagno fun facts
- The Compagno was the first Daihatsu to wear the brand's now-famous 'D' logo.
- To promote the car's durability, Daihatsu drove two Compagnos 11,000 miles from Olympia, Greece, to Tokyo for the 1964 Olympic Games.
- The name 'Compagno' is derived from the Italian word for 'partner' or 'companion'.