Rines Tsuru II 1991: A Classic Reborn

The Rines TS-1991, introduced in 1991, was a groundbreaking compact car that left an indelible mark on the Japanese automotive industry.

At its launch, the TS-1991 was acclaimed for its innovative design and exceptional performance, embodying Daihatsu's commitment to creating reliable and fun-to-drive vehicles.

The Design Revolution

The TS-1991's design was nothing short of revolutionary. Daihatsu introduced a new concept of a 'keijidōsha' or 'light automobile', targeting urban drivers who sought a compact, agile vehicle for daily commuting.

many different types of wheels and rims are shown in this collage with the same color

a black car driving down the road with yellow rims on it's tires

The car's compact dimensions, measuring just 3,395 mm in length, 1,475 mm in width, and 1,590 mm in height, made it an ideal city companion. Its curb weight of only 775 kg ensured excellent maneuverability and fuel efficiency.

Aerodynamic Styling

The Rines TS-1991 featured a sleek, aerodynamic design with minimal frontal area, boasting a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.33. This not only improved fuel efficiency but also contributed to exceptional stability at high speeds.

a red car parked in front of a building next to a pile of tires and tools

a silver car parked in front of a brick building

The car's ‘flush surface’ design, pioneered by Daihatsu, employed minimal character lines, enhancing the TS-1991's modern, futuristic appeal.

Interior Comfort and Tech

The TS-1991's interior was a sanctuary of comfort and style, with ample headroom and legroom for its respective classes. The dashboard echoed the exterior's clean design, with user-centric controls and a well-organized, clutter-free layout.

For its time, the TS-1991 was laden with innovative technology. Its optional ‘Audio Cyber’ system featured a CD player, further emphasizing Daihatsu's commitment to offering advanced features in compact vehicles.

the rear end of a white sports car parked in front of a tall building on a city street

a purple car parked in front of a building

many different types of wheels and rims are shown in this collage, including one with

an old car parked in front of a fenced off area with trees and bushes

Performance and Innovation

Beneath the bonnet, the Rines TS-1991 housed Daihatsu's robust and reliable 1.0-litre K10B inline-three engine, generating 52 PS and 78 N·m of torque.

This engine, paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, delivered an impressive fuel efficiency of 24.4 km/L (JC08 mode).

Dual-Cam Engine Technology

The K10B engine was a testament to Daihatsu's engineering prowess, featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, a first in the Kei car segment. This technology ensured optimal combustion efficiency and lower emissions.

a silver car parked in a parking lot next to other cars

a red car parked in front of a yellow building

the rear end of a car parked in a parking lot with its lights on and it's tail light turned red

a white car parked in front of a group of people

Moreover, the engine incorporated Daihatsu's patented ‘Lean Burn Control’ system, allowing the engine to run efficiently on a lean fuel-air mixture, further enhancing fuel economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Suspension and Handling

The Rines TS-1991's MacPherson strut front and rear torsion beam suspension provided precise and agile handling, making light work of urban streets and tight corners.

Its rack-and-pinion steering system offered sharp turning, ensuring responsive driver input. This, coupled with the TS-1991's light weight and low centre of gravity, resulted in a dynamic and engaging driving experience.

The Rines TS-1991's legacy stretched far beyond its production run. It marked a turning point in Japanese automobile design, pushing the boundaries of compact car innovation. Daihatsu continues to draw inspiration from this iconic model, adorning its modern vehicles with echoes of the TS-1991's groundbreaking design and engineering.