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Daihatsu Consorte: 1969–1977 small car based on the Toyota Publica
The Daihatsu Consorte was a small Daihatsu car produced from 1969 to 1977, based on the Toyota Publica. In this article, we'll explore its origins, body styles, engines, and what you need to know if you're hunting for one of these classic Japanese cars in Lithuania.
The Consorte in brief
The Consorte was a small Daihatsu car sold from April 1969 to 1977. It was essentially the Toyota Publica P30 model with Daihatsu badging: after Daihatsu merged with Toyota, it became a larger-than-kei car sold through the Toyota Corolla Store network.
The name Consorte means 'spouse, partner' in Italian, reflecting Daihatsu's new partnership with Toyota and continuing the previously used 'Compagno' ('friend') theme. Such a car is very rare in Lithuania — it's a vintage Japanese machine that appeals to collectors.
How the versions differ
Initially, the Consorte was offered only as a two-door sedan, the Consorte Berlina, with Standard and Deluxe trims. In September 1970, it received a minor update (new grille, dashboard, top-spec Super Deluxe version with front disc brakes), and again in June 1971.
In January 1972, a fastback body arrived, roughly 50 mm longer; the 'Berlina' name was dropped, and the sporty version was renamed to 'GS', with a 'PS' version added featuring a 1.0-litre engine. In May 1973, the 'Toyota Starlet' P40 coupe joined the lineup, and in September 1973, a four-door sedan variant was introduced, which was produced only until November 1974. The two-door sedan received its final update in December 1975.
The Consorte was discontinued in November 1977; it was replaced by the 'Charade' G10 hatchback.
Engines and transmissions
The main engine is the 'Daihatsu' 1.0-litre 'FE', carried over from the 'Compagno' — unlike the 'Toyota Publica', which had 0.8–1.1-litre 'Toyota' engines. The transmission is a 4-speed manual.
From June 1971, the sporty 'S' version was offered with the 'Toyota' 1.2-litre '3K' engine. In the coupe version, 1.2-litre variants were also available with a 5-speed manual or 2-speed automatic transmission. Between 1976 and 1977, due to stricter emission standards, the 1.2-litre engine was switched to the '3K-U', and the 1.0-litre 'FE' was discontinued.
What to check when buying a Daihatsu Consorte
As with any classic Japanese car, corrosion is the primary concern. Inspect the sills, wings, floors, boot, and suspension mounts. Pay attention to any previous body repairs.
The engine and transmission should operate without excessive noise or fluid leaks. Since this is a very rare model, some parts may no longer be available; certain components might be shared with the 'Toyota Publica' or 'Starlet', so it's worth considering their spares as well.
Documents and provenance: ensure the car was legally imported and that the chassis numbers match the documents. Before buying, consult with a classic Japanese car club or specialist.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Consorte Berlina
1969–1971The first two-door sedan version.
- Standard and Deluxe trim levels
- 1.0-litre "FE" engine, 4-speed manual gearbox
- In 1970, the Super Deluxe arrived with front disc brakes
Consorte S / GS
From 1971A sportier version with a 1.2-litre engine.
- "Toyota" 1.2-litre "3K" engine
- Sportier looks
- From 1972, it was called the GS
Consorte fastback
From 1972Updated fastback body.
- Around 50 mm longer
- The name "Berlina" was dropped
- A sporty PS version with a 1.0-litre engine appeared
Consorte kupė
1973–1977Coupe based on the "Toyota Starlet" P40.
- 1.0-litre versions HL and TL, 1.2-litre — GL and GHL
- Five-speed manual and automatic gearboxes for 1.2-litre versions
- The HL coupe was discontinued in 1977.
Consorte keturdurė
1973–1974Four-door sedan version.
- Sold from October 1973 to November 1974
- Standard, Deluxe and Super Deluxe trim levels
- Replaced the "Charmant"
Comparing the versions
| Berlina (dviejų durų) | Fastback (nuo 1972 m.) | Kupė (nuo 1973 m.) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For classic style enthusiasts | For those who prefer a slightly more modern body | For those who like a sporty look |
| Engine | 1.0 l „FE“ | 1.0 l „FE“ or 1.2 l „3K“ | 1.0 l or 1.2 l |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual | 4-speed manual | 4 or 5-speed manual or 2-speed automatic |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€ |
If you want the original classic look, go for an early Berlina. If modern styling is more important — a fastback or coupé, but only with a documented history.
Pros
- A rare Japanese classic car
- Simple, straightforward technology
- Technically akin to the Toyota Publica
- An intriguing history of the Daihatsu–Toyota partnership
Cons
- A very limited supply
- Some parts are hard to come by
- An old car means a risk of corrosion
Frequently asked questions
Is the Consorte a Toyota Publica?
Essentially, yes — it's a Publica with a Daihatsu badge and engine.
How many years was the Daihatsu Consorte produced?
From April 1969 to November 1977.
What replaced the Consorte?
The G10 hatchback Daihatsu Charade took its place.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
