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Daihatsu Midget: three-wheeled pickup, versions and what to know
The Daihatsu Midget is a small three-wheeled commercial vehicle, produced in Japan from 1957 to 1972, and later revived as the Midget II from 1996 to 2001. In this article, we'll look at its versions, technology, and what you need to know to buy this rare vehicle.
Midget in brief
The Midget was designed as an affordable and practical commercial vehicle for small businesses, especially narrow city streets. Three wheels, a small body, and a simple design allowed it to be produced and maintained cheaply.
Today, the Midget is a collector's item and museum exhibit. It rarely appears outside Japan, so buying one often feels like hunting for a unique, hard-to-find classic car.
Original Midget and Midget II
The first Midget debuted in 1957 and was produced in several versions until the early 1970s. It had a simple cabin, cargo bed, and a small engine.
The Midget II (1996–2001) is a later, more modern revival of the same idea with an enclosed cabin and improved construction. In 2023, Daihatsu unveiled the Midget X concept car—a modern interpretation of this idea.
Engine and handling
The Midget is powered by a small single-cylinder engine. Speed and power are modest, as the vehicle is designed for short distances and cargo hauling in the city, not for highways.
The three-wheeled design means the vehicle is more prone to tipping in corners and isn't suited to high speeds. Drivers need to get used to this.
What to know before buying
The Midget is rare, so the most important thing is provenance, documentation, and authenticity. Find out if the car can be registered in your country and what its classification is — three-wheelers often have separate requirements.
Check the body and chassis for rust, inspect the engine, gearbox, and transmission. Parts are often sourced from Japan, so before buying, check if they can be found.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Midget (DS, DK)
The beginning of the 1957–1960 rangeThe first production versions.
- Three-wheeled construction
- A small single-cylinder engine
- A simple open or semi-enclosed cabin
Midget MP
1959–1972Later, more widespread versions.
- Often — a closed cabin
- A cargo box
- Often — an improved construction
Midget II
1996–2001Refreshed Midget with a more modern cabin.
- Enclosed cabin
- A small single-cylinder engine
- Three-wheeled construction
Version comparison
| Midget (DS) | Midget (MP) | Midget II | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For collectors | For collectors | For collectors and enthusiasts |
| Cabin | Basic | Often enclosed | Enclosed |
| Construction | Three-wheeled | Three-wheeled | Three-wheeled |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€ |
The Midget is perfect for collectors and those who appreciate unusual classic cars. The key is its provenance and the ability to register it.
Pros
- A rare and unique car
- Simple construction
- Interesting history
- A standout collectible
Cons
- Very hard to find and acquire
- Three-wheeler design limited for speed and stability
- Registration and parts issues
Frequently asked questions
How many wheels does the Daihatsu Midget have?
Three — two at the back and one at the front.
How does the Midget II differ from the original Midget?
The Midget II (1996–2001) is a later, more modern revival of the same idea with an enclosed cabin.
Can the Midget be used in Lithuania?
It depends on the specific car and its registration possibilities. Before buying, consult with the registration authority.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
