Daihatsu Esse
A minimalist kei car icon celebrated for its lightweight purity and retro-modern charm.
- Power
- 58 bhp
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$7k
About the Daihatsu Esse
Launched in December 2005, the Daihatsu Esse was designed as a return to the 'essence' of the kei car, prioritising simplicity and affordability. Its trapezoidal silhouette and minimalist interior, featuring a central instrument cluster, drew comparisons to European city cars like the Renault 4. Despite its budget positioning, the Esse gained a cult following in the Japanese tuning scene due to its exceptionally low kerb weight and the rev-happy KF-VE engine. It remains a popular choice for grassroots motorsport and 'eco-racing' in Japan, valued for its mechanical honesty and engaging driving dynamics.
Daihatsu Esse specs
The Daihatsu Esse produces 58 bhp (43 kW) and 65 Nm (48 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Daihatsu |
|---|---|
| Model | Esse |
| Trim | 660 |
| Years | 2005–2011 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 0.66-litre 3-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 658 cc (0.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 58 bhp (43 kW) at 7,200 rpm |
| Torque | 65 Nm (48 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 700 kg (1,543 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 83 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 Esse worth?
A typical Daihatsu Esse is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $6,500 (about £2,200 – £4,800).
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 Esse rarity in CarSpot
The Daihatsu Esse is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 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.
Daihatsu Esse fun facts
- The name 'Esse' is a backronym for 'Eco, Simple, Smart, and Easy', though it also refers to the Latin word for 'to be'.
- At its 2005 launch, the Esse was the cheapest new car available in Japan, with a starting price of just 682,500 yen.
- The Esse was the first Daihatsu model to feature the KF-VE engine, a long-stroke three-cylinder unit that became a staple of the brand's line-up for over a decade.