The Perodua Nippa 0.7, equipped with a 31 horsepower engine and an automatic transmission, was a significant entry-level vehicle in the Malaysian automotive market from 1994 to 2009. Positioned as an affordable and practical city car, the Nippa played a crucial role in Perodua’s early success and the broader democratization of car ownership in Malaysia. It was based on the Daihatsu Mira, reflecting the close collaboration between the two manufacturers. This particular variant, the 0.7L automatic, represented the base model of the Nippa range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Perodua |
| Model | Nippa |
| Generation | Nippa |
| Type (Engine) | 0.7 (31 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 21 kg/Hp, 47.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 13.3 kg/Nm, 75.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 31 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47 Hp/l |
| Torque | 49 Nm @ 4000 rpm (36.14 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EF-EL |
| Engine displacement | 659 cm3 (40.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 68 mm (2.68 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 60.5 mm (2.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.48 l (2.62 US qt | 2.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 190 l (6.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 32 l (8.45 US gal | 7.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 3395 mm (133.66 in.) |
| Width | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Height | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2280 mm (89.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1215 mm (47.83 in.) |
| Rear track | 1205 mm (47.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 8.8 m (28.87 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 145/70 R12 |
| Wheel rims size | 12 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Nippa 0.7 was powered by the EF-EL engine, a 659cc inline three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine, derived from Daihatsu designs, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Notably, it utilized a carburettor fuel injection system, a relatively simple and cost-effective technology for the time, but less efficient and precise than modern fuel injection systems. The engine produced a modest 31 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 49 Nm (36.14 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s small displacement and carbureted fuel delivery contributed to its fuel efficiency, but also limited its overall performance. The three-speed automatic transmission was a key feature for this variant, aimed at providing ease of driving in urban environments. It was a relatively basic automatic, prioritizing simplicity and reliability over sophisticated features.
Driving Characteristics
The Nippa 0.7 automatic was not designed for spirited driving. Acceleration was slow, and overtaking required careful planning. The three-speed automatic transmission had relatively wide gear ratios, meaning the engine often operated at higher rpm during cruising, impacting refinement. However, the automatic transmission made it exceptionally easy to drive in congested city traffic. The light weight of the vehicle (650 kg / 1433 lbs) helped to mitigate the lack of power to some extent. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic offered less driver engagement and slightly reduced fuel economy, but significantly improved convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Nippa 0.7 automatic was the entry-level trim, and as such, it came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, manual windows, and a basic AM/FM radio. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. The interior was designed for practicality and durability rather than luxury. The focus was on providing a functional and affordable transportation solution. Higher trim levels of the Nippa offered features like power windows, upgraded audio systems, and more comfortable seating.
Chassis & Braking
The Nippa featured an independent McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing reasonable handling for a vehicle in its class. The rear suspension utilized an independent coil spring setup. Braking was comprised of front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included, a notable safety feature for a car in this segment. The relatively small tires (145/70 R12) and modest braking system were adequate for the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Perodua Nippa 0.7 automatic was generally well-received in Malaysia as an affordable and reliable city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of power and basic interior. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Proton Saga, the Nippa offered better fuel economy and a more refined driving experience, but at a slightly higher price point. The automatic transmission variant was particularly popular with drivers who prioritized convenience over performance.
Legacy
The Perodua Nippa, and particularly the 0.7 automatic variant, holds a significant place in Malaysian automotive history. It helped establish Perodua as a major player in the domestic market and demonstrated the viability of affordable, locally-assembled cars. While the EF-EL engine is not known for exceptional longevity, it proved to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Today, the Nippa 0.7 automatic is a relatively rare sight on Malaysian roads, but it remains a fondly remembered vehicle for many first-time car owners. Its simplicity and affordability continue to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a classic and economical city car.
