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Daihatsu Applause: a compact liftback and what to know when buying used
The Daihatsu Applause is a compact five-door liftback produced from 1989 to 2000. In this article, we'll look at its features, engine, and things to check before buying.
Applause in brief
The Applause stood out with its body style—a sedan-like car with a lift-up tailgate (liftback). This gave it a spacious boot, and its appearance was more akin to a classic sedan than a hatchback.
The model is considered a simple, affordable, and reliable city and family car. Now it's a classic, so condition is more important than the trim level.
The facelift
The Applause was produced in one generation, but the model was refreshed in 1997—with changes to the front and rear styling. The updated version is often referred to as the A101S.
So when buying, you can choose between the early version (1989–1997) and the later version (1997–2000); technically, they are very similar.
Engine and transmission
In Europe, the most common engine is the 1.6-litre 16-valve petrol unit, with around 105 hp. There were no diesel versions.
The transmission is either manual or automatic, and the drive is to the front wheels.
What to check when buying a used Applause
The main risk is corrosion, so check the sills, wheel arches, floor, and boot lid. Also, check for signs of repairs and ensure the body is straight.
Check that the engine runs smoothly, that there are no oil or coolant leaks, and that the timing belt has been replaced according to the manufacturer's intervals. The automatic gearbox should shift smoothly.
Since the model is old and wasn't widely available, finding certain body and interior parts might take time; it's worth verifying their availability.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Applause (ankstyva)
1989–1997The first version before the facelift.
- 1.6-litre petrol engine, around 105 hp
- Five-door liftback body style
- Often — electric windows and air conditioning
Applause (atnaujinta)
1997–2000Facelifted version with revised styling.
- Updated front and rear
- The same 1.6-litre engine
- Often — a bit more equipment
Comparing versions
| Ankstyva | Atnaujinta | |
|---|---|---|
| Who's it for? | Everyday driving | Everyday driving with a fresher look |
| Engine | 1.6 L, around 105 HP | 1.6 L, around 105 HP |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € |
The tech is similar in both versions, so the key factors are the car's condition and service history, not the update.
Pros
- Spacious boot
- Simple and affordable tech
- Four-cylinder, 16-valve engine
- Low running costs
Cons
- Risk of corrosion due to age
- Finding parts might take time
- Older safety and comfort features
Frequently asked questions
What engine does the Daihatsu Applause have?
In Europe, the most common is the 1.6-litre 16-valve petrol engine with around 105hp.
What body style is the Applause?
It's a five-door liftback — a sedan body style with a tailgate that opens upwards.
Is the Applause suitable for daily driving?
Yes, if the car is well-maintained, but due to its age, expect some rust and parts hunting.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
