Description

The Daihatsu Midget II was a unique and compact micro-truck introduced in the 1990s as a modern reinterpretation of the original Daihatsu Midget from the 1950s and 60s. It was developed to meet the needs of small business owners and urban drivers who required a highly maneuverable, economical vehicle with a small footprint. The Midget II combined practicality with an unmistakably quirky design that made it stand out from other vehicles in its class.

Unlike its three-wheeled predecessor, the Midget II featured a more stable four-wheeled layout. It remained true to its kei car classification, powered by a 660 cc three-cylinder engine. The engine was air-cooled in early models and later water-cooled in more advanced versions. Available transmissions included a 4-speed manual and a 3-speed automatic, and some variants offered part-time 4WD for better traction in more challenging conditions.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Midget II was its seating arrangement. In the original configuration, it featured a single centrally positioned seat for the driver, giving it a unique feel and better visibility in tight spaces. Some later models introduced a second, narrower passenger seat beside the driver, making it slightly more practical for personal or light-duty commercial use.

The design of the Midget II was whimsical and functional. It had a compact, upright cab with large round headlights and a short nose, making it easy to park and maneuver in dense urban environments. The back portion was configured either as a small open pickup bed or, in the Cargo variant, as an enclosed box for transporting goods. Despite its small size, the vehicle was engineered to carry surprisingly heavy loads for its class.

Its simplicity made the Midget II cheap to run and maintain, and it became popular in Japan with small business owners, local delivery services, and even for use on large industrial or theme park sites. The vehicle’s distinctiveness also led to a niche following among car enthusiasts who appreciated its charm, especially when customized or modified.

Though it was never officially sold in large numbers outside Japan, some examples were exported or imported privately to other markets, where they became novelties at car shows or used in creative business marketing.

Today, the Daihatsu Midget II enjoys cult status. Its unusual styling, efficient engineering, and endearing character have made it a beloved example of Japanese kei car innovation. It remains a symbol of practical urban mobility with a big personality in a very small package.