🚗 Suzuki Cappuccino Review — Tiny Kei-Car with Big Fun
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 27, 2025
The Suzuki Cappuccino is a pocket-sized Japanese sports car that proves you don’t need huge horsepower to have a huge smile. With its lightweight design, clever convertible roof, and engaging rear-wheel-drive setup, this quirky JDM roadster delivers pure driving joy. But is it the right classic for you? Let’s dive in. 😄
🚗 Suzuki Cappuccino — Quick, Quirky, and Seriously Fun
Meet the Suzuki Cappuccino: a featherweight, two-seat sports kei-car built from 1991 to 1998. It follows Japan’s kei rules—tiny turbo engine, compact size, and low weight—which all add up to big smiles per kilometer. 😄
🔎 What It Is
The Cappuccino pairs a front-mid engine with rear-wheel drive and a balanced chassis. Thanks to its clever three-piece hardtop, it morphs between coupe, targa, T-top, and full convertible. It’s a pocket-rocket with personality! ✨
📊 Key Specs
- Engine: 657 cc turbocharged inline-three (F6A, later K6A), about 64 PS (63 bhp)
- Layout: Front-mid engine, rear-wheel drive, near 50/50 weight balance
- Chassis: Aluminum double-wishbone front; lightweight multi-link rear
- Weight & Size: ~725 kg; ~3.3 m long; ~1.4 m wide
- Roof: Three-piece hardtop — coupe, targa, T-top, or full cabrio in minutes 🧩
🏁 Performance
- 0–62 mph: ~8 seconds
- Top speed: ~85 mph (138 km/h)
- Fuel economy: around 42 mpg (UK) ⛽
👍 Pros — What Makes It Special
🎯 Ultra-Fun Driving Experience
Light, nimble, and engaging. The RWD setup and tidy weight make it feel lively at any speed—like a miniature driver’s car that begs to be hustled along twisty roads.
🧠 Clever Convertible Flexibility
The multi-panel hardtop is a party trick you’ll actually use. Swap between roof modes to match your mood or the weather. 🌤️
🏆 Classic Charm & Collectibility
With relatively low production numbers and rising interest, the Cappuccino has strong cult appeal and growing classic status.
🌱 Lightweight & Efficient
Extensive use of aluminum keeps weight down, so even modest power feels zippy while sipping fuel.
🏙️ City-Friendly Size
Thread through traffic, snag tiny parking spots, and enjoy a car that fits modern city life.
👎 Cons — Practical Drawbacks
📏 Tiny Cabin & Limited Comfort
- Very tight for taller drivers; legroom can be a squeeze.
- Luggage space is minimal—especially when roof panels are stored.
🧲 Rust & Fragility Concerns
- Body and underbody can suffer from corrosion (floorpans, sills, arches, even engine bay).
- Aluminum panels dent easily and can be pricey to repair or replace.
🔧 Mechanical Quirks & Maintenance
- Manual gearboxes often develop weak synchros (notably 2nd gear).
- Prefers frequent oil changes (roughly every 3,000–6,000 miles).
- Brake calipers may leak or seize if neglected.
📦 Parts Rarity & Upkeep Cost
- Trim and body panels can be hard to source and may need importing.
- Expect some wait times and added shipping costs for specialty items.
🛡️ Low Practicality & Safety
- Best as a weekend car; low ground clearance and small fuel tank limit long-trip comfort.
- Lacks many modern safety features; its tiny footprint can feel vulnerable.
🤔 Why Buy a Suzuki Cappuccino?
This is a passion pick—and that’s the magic. Choose the Cappuccino if you:
- Crave compact, analog driving thrills 🎮
- Love quirky engineering and retro JDM charm 🧸
- Want a fun weekend toy or light project with classic appeal 🧰
- Value uniqueness and collector potential 💎
If daily comfort, cargo space, and low maintenance are your top priorities, it may not be the right everyday companion. Treat it as a cherished second car for maximum enjoyment.
🗣️ Real Owner Insights
- “I’m 6'2" and could barely fit—had to fold myself into the seat.”
- “Expect to spend a bit on parts and shipping… but it’s an absolute blast to drive.”
✅ Final Verdict
The Suzuki Cappuccino is a tiny gem that punches way above its size. With a playful chassis, modular roof, and heaps of character, it delivers pure, old-school fun. If you’re in it for smiles, nostalgia, and something genuinely different—and you can live with its quirks and parts-hunting adventures—it’s a delightful classic to own. 🌟