ANNOUNCEMENT: This is my 100th blog post. To celebrate, I present you “COMPREHENSIVE Review” of Suzuki Cappuccino.
In this blog entry, I’m covering 1991 to 1997 Suzuki Cappuccino. The car belonged to “KEI-car” category. It’s turbocharged 3 cylinders 660cc, 12v 64hp FMR (Front midship Rear wheel drive. “The vehicle was designed to meet Kei car specifications for lower tax and insurance in Japan. Weighing just 700 kg (1543 lb), its dimensions also conformed to Kei car regulations on length and width, being 3295 mm (129.7 in) long and 1395 mm (54.9 in) wide.
The Cappuccino featured 4-wheel disc brakes, possibly the first production iteration of electric power-assisted steering, aluminium double wishbone suspension and rear wheel drive. Production began in 1991 and ceased in 1997. The Cappuccino's closest competitor of the time were the Autozam AZ-1, Honda Beat and the Daihatsu Leeza Spyder. (The Autozam AZ-1, Honda Beat and Suzuki Cappuccino were together called the Sporty K-Car's ABC.)” – (a)
Why I review this car?
Yesterday, I seen a RED Suzuki Cappuccino driving past me in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia (yes Malaysia). My curiosity prompted me to do research on this car.
Another reason’s I was fired up after watching Initial-D Stage 4, Project-D where the Suzuki Cappuccino raced Takumi’s AE86 in Stage 12 and lost to the latter (in heavy rain). Hence, I’m sharing most of my research here.
Here’s the short video clip:
"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMzC3WjR1SQ"
What to look out for?:
Body: Panels are scarce and expensive, so avoid anything with more than superficial damage. Check that the intricate roof fits well, the rubber hasn't perished and is supplied with the black pouches that protect the sections while they're folded away in the boot. Some cars have started to rust.
Engine/Gearbox: Tiny turbo unit works hard and relies on assiduous servicing.
Other: Check that the air conditioning still works as it should.
As usual, I don’t have a car to test and brag about as the Suzuki Cappuccino’s Freaking RARE in Malaysia. In fact, there’s less than 20 units in Peninsular Malaysia (Don’t know about East Malaysia).
I compiled 2 car reviews from: 1) Evo.co.uk – A long term test by David Yu, 2) www.parkers.co.uk. A detailed specification by “Suzuki-cappuccino.com AND 3) A series of Owner’s review.
Car Review 1: EVO Magazine (UK). Long Term Tests: Suzuki Cappuccino (b)
“It is with considerable shock that I find myself writing this report three-and-a-half years after buying the little K car - I never thought I'd keep it that long."
By David Yu, EVO Magazine UK, October 2003
"It is with considerable shock that I find myself writing this report three-and-a-half years after buying the little K car - I never thought I'd keep it that long.
I needed a small urban runabout and the only one that appealed was the Cappuccino, a car I had first sampled ten years ago. Its main attractions were a sparkling rear-drive chassis, perky turbocharged grunt, hard-top convertible roof, cheekily irresistible styling and a narrow body for unbeatable cross-London agility.
I sourced the Japanese import through a dealer friend, sight unseen. Initial problems were limited to a rattly gearknob (fixed with Blu-Tac) and an over-large steering wheel (fixed with the Demon Tweeks catalogue).
The Suzuki was hilarious, squeezing through gaps only bicycles would consider and baffling the motoring illiterati as the previous owner had removed the Suzuki badges. People were so amused and confused by the sight of the pocket rocket that they didn't seem to mind when I nipped into gaps in front of them.
My Cappuccino didn't have the optional power assistance offered on later models and the steering was a delight with plenty of feedback. The only downside was the effort required at parking speeds. Parking, of course, was laughably easy, and frequently I'd end up finding gaps which would have been denied to normal-sized cars.
The handling amused continuously with well-contained understeer followed by easily catchable power oversteer if sufficiently provoked. Wet grip levels were even more entertaining, but you had to be on your toes, particularly with the original Japanese Dunlops. Eventually, the rears needed to be replaced and the Pirelli P6000s that were available helped tame the wayward rear end, initially much to my disappointment, but I had to admit they allowed the car to travel faster.
The pint-sized triple was plentifully torquey in the mid-range, but notably reluctant to pull smoothly from below 3000rpm and breathless above 5500. After a service, which involved changing very worn spark plugs, the powerband almost doubled in width.
I bought the Cappuccino specifically for urban combat, but when finally let loose on the North Yorks moors during last year's Fast Fleet outing, it surprised and delighted everyone who drove it.
The micro-car never missed a beat for three years, but earlier this year there was a sudden loss in smoothness and power, followed by total power loss as the cambelt broke. The end result was 12 bent valves and a bill for nearly a grand. Predictably the mileage at the time was just short of 60,000 when the cambelt change was due...
But that was the only blemish on the Suzuki's record and the car was such a joy on every other journey that it is with a real sense of regret that I'm selling it. The reason? There's now a modern replacement. Can you guess what it is yet?”
Evo Statistics
Date acquired: May 2000
Total mileage: 12,500
Duration of test: 41 months
Average consumption: 35.6mpg
Servicing costs: £377
Consumables: £97 (2 x tyres)
Extra costs: £1457 (top-end rebuild, s/s exhaust, Momo steering wheel)
Price new: £5700 (secondhand)
Depreciation: £2200
End of car review 1.
Car review 2: Suzuki Cappuccino (c)
Summary (3/5 stars)
• Fun sportster with classic potential
• Tiny, impractical
The Cappuccino was a highlight in an otherwise plain Suzuki model line-up during the mid-1990s. Because of limited numbers, retro looks - inspired by classic British Roadsters like the Austin Healy Sprite and MG Midget - and a peppy 657cc engine, it's picked up something of a cult following. Prices remain remarkably high - something that may surprise you if you've never considered a Cappuccino before. All-in-all, it's a fun second car, but with a small fuel tank and limited boot capacity, it's not really one that's suitable for everyday use.
Performance (3 ½ / 5 stars)
The rev-happy 64bhp 657cc engine is peppy, willing and even sounds characterful - especially when the turbo kicks-in. Acceleration is quick: Cappuccino gets to 60mph in around eight seconds (although, due, to the driving position, it feels much quicker). However, the top speed is limited to 87mph. Work the five-speed gearbox and you'll be rewarded with the feel of a proper sportscar. Best keep it on A-roads, as it's outclassed on the motorway: progress at these speeds is restricted.
Handling (4/5 stars)
Cappuccino doesn't make for a relaxed motorway drive. If the noise of the engine and road isn't uncomfortable enough, there's always the worry that the Cappuccino's tiny body is a lorry driver's blind spot. It's a different story on twisty cross-country roads, where it's grippy, fast and lots of fun. The steering is sharp and there's remarkably little bodyroll. However, as it's rear-wheel drive, it can, in the wet, be a bit of a handful. And down-right frightening to the inexperienced.
Comfort (2/5 stars)
Built for two, but better with one. Leg, shoulder and headroom (with the roof up) are all limited and Cappuccino is very narrow. Engine noise is a problem at higher speeds and on longer journeys as the buzzy unit can get quite tiring. Air conditioning is a real bonus on a car of this age and helps keep misting-up under control in the winter months. But check that it works correctly.
Practicality (½ / 5 stars)
Very little boot space. The roof panels fit, layered (almost origami-like), into the boot; when this is the case, there is no luggage space. Inside there are a couple of lockable cubbies, but only useful for very small items. The roof panels are removed in three sections and there are three roof options: T-bar (just the middle section in place), Targa (all roof panels removed, but the rear glass in place) and fully convertible (all panels removed, rear glass lowered). Fuel tank is just 30 litres, which means it has a limited range.
Equipment (3 / 5 stars)
Standard equipment on every Cappuccino was alloy wheels, electric windows, air conditioning, three-spoke steering wheel, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, three panel aluminium hard top, tinted glass, side impact protection beams, lockable glovebox and centrebox and reclining and sliding sport seats.
Behind the wheel (3 / 5 stars)
The interior's snug and the driver sits incredibly close to the ground. All the controls are easily reached and, because of its narrow shape, the pedals are extremely close together, which could be a problem for drivers with larger feet. Visibility is poor with the roof up, due to the low driving position and the shape of the rear screen.
Safety (1 / 5 stars)
The list of standard safety equipment is sparse and reflects a time when safety wasn't quite as high up car buyers' agendas as it is today. In addition, Cappuccinos are lower than the windows of most big 4x4s. All cars have side impact protection beams. If it does not already have an alarm fitted, it's a good idea to fit a Thatcham Category One alarm; it may reduce your insurance too.
Reliability (4/5 stars)
Like all Suzukis, the Cappuccino is generally very reliable; however, the little engine has to work very hard, so check for service history.
Buying used (4 ½ / 5 stars)
Only 1100 Cappuccinos made it to the UK, so finding one can be difficult and prices are remarkably high, considering the car cost around £12,000 when it was new. About two-thirds of these are in Cordoba Red metallic, with the remainder in Mercury Silver metallic. Beware of Japanese-spec models. Though they look like official UK cars, there were 23 changes made to make it conform to UK vehicle rules. All official UK cars were registered by 30 September 1995, when stricter engine emissions laws were introduced. Not sure if it's a grey import of not? Look at the indicator light casings: if the casing is flush with the wing, it's an import; if it bulges out (see gallery), it's a UK car.
Selling (4 / 5 stars)
Limited numbers, cute looks and strong reliability keeps demand high. This end of the Cabriolet market remains buoyant, with plenty of buyers wiling to pay a few thousand pounds to enjoy drop-top motoring.
Running costs (2 ½ / 5 stars
Costs are generally quite high for what is actually quite a small car. Despite being turbo-charged, the tiny three-cylinder 657cc engine gives acceptable - though not outstanding - fuel economy (around 40mpg ).
Here’s the FULL Specifications of the Suzuki Cappuccino.
FULL SPECIFICATIONS. (d )
Source:
http://www.suzuki-cappuccino.com/a_information/a_cappuccino/tech_spec.php
Engine
Type 3-cylinder, DOHC, 12-valve, turbo-charged/intercooled with 3-way catalytic converter
Piston displacement 657 cc (40 cu in)
Bore and stroke 65 x 66 mm (2.55 x 2.59 in)
Compression ratio 8.3:1
Fuel distribution Multi point injection
Maximum output 64 PS (63.1 bhp) @ 6,500rpm
Maximum torque 8.7 kgm (62.9 lb ft) @ 4,000rpm JDM-1
Fuel tank 30 litres (6.6 gallons)
Dimensions and Weight
Overall length 3,295 mm (129.8 in)
Overall width 1,395 mm ( 55.0 in)
Overall height 1,185 mm ( 46.7 in)
Wheelbase 2,060 mm ( 81.2 in)
Track - front 1,210 mm ( 47.6 in)
Track - rear 1,210 mm ( 47.6 in)
Ground clearance 135 mm ( 5.3 in)
Gross vehicle weight 895 kg (1,973 lbs)
Kerb weight 725 kg (1,599 lbs)
Min turning radius 4.4 m ( 14.4 ft)
Seating capacity 2
Transmission
Type 5-forward all synchromesh, 1 reverse JDM-2
Gear Ratio MPH per 1000 RPM (approx)
1st 3.478 3.6
2nd 2.021 6.3
3rd 1.352 9.4
4th 1.000 12.6
5th 0.790 16.0
Reverse -3.260 -3.9
MPH per 1000 RPM is calculated for
standard wheels & tyres (165/65R14)
Final Drive Ratio 5.125 JDM-3
Chassis
Suspension
Front Double wishbone
Rear Wishbone/multi-link
Brakes JDM-4
Front Ventilated disc
Rear Disc
Steering Rack and pinion
Fuel Consumption
Urban cycle 39.2 mpg (7.2 L/100km)
At a constant 56 mph 52.3 mpg (5.4 L/100km)
At a constant 75 mph 36.7 mpg (7.7 L/100km)
Colour Availability
Cordoba Red non metallic
Mercury Silver metallic
JDM-9
Notes on Japanese Domestic Market Cappuccinos
JDM-1 EA21R model (1995-on) has a different engine with higher torque.
JDM-2 EA21R can have manual or automatic transmission.
JDM-3 JDM models can have a Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
JDM-4 JDM models have a different brake arrangement.
JDM-5 JDM models do not have dim-dip headlamps.
JDM-6 JDM models do not have rear foglamps as standard, but are fitted with aftermarket rear foglamps for use in UK.
JDM-7 JDM models can have a driver's airbag fitted in a 4-spoke steering wheel.
JDM-8 Some JDM models have electric power steering but no tilt/telescopic adjustment.
JDM-9 JDM cars also come in the following additional colours:
* Satellite Silver
* Dark Green
* Dark Blue
* Saturn Black
* Darker Red
* Turquoise Green
* Bright Red
* Pearl Green.
Performance
Source What Car Magazine-February 1994
Maximum speed 85 mph (electronically restricted)
Acceleration 0-62 mph 8.0 seconds
Equipment Level
The following features were fitted as standard on the UK Type Approved Cappuccino during the 1993-1995 availability period.
- Alloy wheels
- Electric windows
- Air conditioning
- Tachometer and Tripmeter
- Ignition key in' reminder
- 'Lights on' reminder
- 3 position interior courtesy light-
- 2 speed intermittent windscreen wiper
- Halogen headlights with dim-dip adjustment JDM-5
- Rear fog and reversing lights JDM-6
- 3 spoke steering wheel JDM-7
- Tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment JDM-8
- Collapsible steering column
- 3 panel aluminium hard top
- Tinted glass
- Laminated front windscreen
- Sliding rear windscreen with heated elements
- Side impact protection beams
- Lockable glovebox and centrebox
- PVC seat and door trim
- Reclining and sliding sport seats
END OF SOURCE.
Without further ado, let’s proceed to Owner’s review (e)
Owner 1:
1995 Suzuki Cappuccino Convertible review from UK and Ireland
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Seized rear brake caliper.
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Seized rear brake caliper.
General comments?
If I hadn't had this car I would have missed out on lots and lots of fun.
Not many people know what a Cappuccino is, but loads of them are curious when they see it. The looks are cute, the performance is spectacular, considering the fuel consumption (40MPG+) and it's a real hoot to drive - even at 'sensible' speeds.
For those who appreciate automotive design, check out some of the features:
4 roof configurations, light-weight aluminium panels, double wishbone suspension, rear wheel drive and an 8500rpm red line on its 3-cylinder engine.
I wouldn't recommend a Cappuccino though to the following groups of people:
1) Large ones
2) Shy ones
3) Those who need boot space
4) Those who think of car as phalic symbols
To everyone else, you (probably) don't know what you're missing.
Owner 1a: Comments 1)
24th Oct 2004, 15:39
These are quirky, but wonderful cars. They look amazing, are really well equipped - and are phenomenal fun to drive. If you are the sort of person who doesn't mind being a bit different from everyone else BUY ONE! Otherwise stick with a bog standard car like everyone else has.
Ken
Cappuccino Owner
Gloucester
UK
2004.
Owner 1b: Comments 2:
11th Dec 2006, 18:13 (From Brunei Darussalam)
I bought my Cappuccino in 1996 after 3 previous owners. I thought it would be another nice addition to my collection, but ended up using it everyday!.
A wonderful pocket rocket that does about 30++mpg. It is a car I will never let go. Since ten years of ownership, the only problem I got was a seized handbrake cable and embarassing admiring glances.
Living in Brunei Darussalam there are only 7 surviving Cappuccinos, but I am still on the lookout for anyone in Brunei who is willing to part with their Cappucinnos. I had Porsches and Mercedes, but none can beat this car on its functional simplicity and willingness to zoom about town.
It it definitely not a car for men who:
1) considers their car as a phallic symbol,
2) who intends have any children at all,
3) needs lots of boot space,
4) is shy.
Last words: Buy the car if you got the chance!
Owner review 2:
1994 Suzuki Cappuccino review from UK and Ireland
"A thrill a minute sports car bargain: get one!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
IAC valve is giving a ticking noise, but that can be sorted with a injector cleaner (See www.suzuki-cappuccino.com)
General comments?
This is a superb little car that you have to drive.
The handling is unbelievable, but don't get cocky. I did and was very lucky. Make sure you respect this car. The rear wheel drive configuration means the back end is light and in the wet you will need very quick reflexes!
The best bit though is the roof. 5 arrangements are possible. Very ingenious and you will get attention. Do not buy if you are a shrinking violet. I have already had people shouting and staring!
Practicality is not a strong point. 4 Bags of shopping, but if you can keep the passenger seat free, the foot-well can take quite a large bag. You will learn to pack with bags, forget suitcases.
Watch insurance. Although it has a 660cc engine, it is insurance group 13 and very expensive for anyone under 21. Plus there were only ever 1110 English spec cars made so very rare. Make sure the one you get is English.
Parts are expensive. Turbo = 2000, headlight unit = 400 (pounds). You get the idea.
Owner’s review 3:
1994 Suzuki Cappuccino review from UK and Ireland
"Faster than an MG Midget, but not as good overall"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Fuel consumption very good, but servicing and parts costs are VERY High.
Some parts cost more than my Range Rover and need to be shipped from Japan as they are never in stock).
Significant rust after 5 years.
Engine needed rebuild at 100,000miles, and still burning oil.
General comments?
Owned from new, and despite size, my only car for six years.
Great fun for whizzing around London, very rapid acceleration up to 40mph.
Lack of leg room and small fuel tank makes long distance motoring a pain.
Handling is very good, but not exceptional in the dry.
In the wet, the car becomes almost uncontrollable on sharp bends over 50mph and would be dangerous for a novice driver.
Tail very prone to drift on wet roads.
Once spun it on a wet supermarket car park at around 25mph.
END OF Owner’s review.
REFERENCES:
1) www.evo.co.uk/.../41324/suzuki_cappuccino.html - Long Term test By David Yu, EVO Magazine (UK) October 2003. (b)
2) http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/suzuki/cappuccino-1993.aspx (c)
3) http://www.suzuki-cappuccino.com/ - For FULL Specifications (d)
4) www.carsurvey.org – For owner’s review (e)
5) http://www .youtube.com/watch?v=PMzC3WjR1SQ
6) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki_Cappuccino (a)
END OF A LONG REVIEW. Thanks for having the patience to read this blog entry.
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