The Toyota Starlet IV 1.3i 16V Turbo, produced between 1989 and 1996, represents a significant evolution in Toyota’s compact car lineage. Part of the fourth generation (1989-1996) of the Starlet, this model was primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM) and European consumers, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and surprisingly potent performance for its class. While not officially sold in the United States, the Starlet IV, particularly the turbocharged variants like the 1.3i 16V, gained a cult following among enthusiasts for its nimble handling and tuning potential. It occupied the subcompact hatchback segment, competing with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Nissan Micra (March), and Peugeot 205.
Toyota Starlet IV: A Performance-Oriented Subcompact
The Starlet IV distinguished itself from its predecessors with a more rounded and aerodynamic design. Toyota focused on improving interior space and comfort while maintaining the Starlet’s reputation for reliability. The 1.3i 16V Turbo model, however, was the performance flagship of the range, offering a significant power upgrade over the naturally aspirated versions. This model appealed to drivers seeking a fun-to-drive, economical vehicle with a sporty edge. The Starlet IV’s success in Europe and Asia stemmed from its ability to deliver a compelling package of features and performance at a competitive price point.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Starlet IV 1.3i 16V Turbo is its 1331cc (81.22 cubic inch) inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, produced 135 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 157 Nm (115.8 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4800 rpm. The turbocharger significantly boosted power output, giving the Starlet a surprisingly quick acceleration for a subcompact car. Power per liter was an impressive 101.4 hp/l. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 8.2:1. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. This configuration allowed for a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 6.1 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.3 kg/Nm contributed to the car’s lively driving experience.
Design & Features
The Starlet IV 1.3i 16V Turbo is a three-door hatchback with seating for five passengers. Its compact dimensions – 3720 mm (146.46 in) in length, 1600 mm (62.99 in) in width, and 1380 mm (54.33 in) in height – made it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The car’s kerb weight of 830 kg (1829.84 lbs) further enhanced its agility. The interior, while simple, was functional and offered adequate space for passengers and cargo. Trunk space ranged from 225 liters (7.95 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 490 liters (17.3 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. Safety features for the era included disc brakes on all four wheels and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power steering for precise control. The vehicle rode on 13-inch wheels with tire size 167/70 R13.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Starlet |
| Generation | Starlet IV |
| Type | 1.3i 16V Turbo (135 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1989 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 101.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 157 Nm @ 4800 rpm (115.8 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1331 cm3 (81.22 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.4 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 830 kg (1829.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 225 l (7.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3720 mm (146.46 in.) |
| Width | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2300 mm (90.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 167/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
The Toyota Starlet IV 1.3i 16V Turbo, while never officially available in the US market, remains a fondly remembered vehicle for its combination of practicality, affordability, and spirited performance. It represents a compelling example of Japanese engineering and design from the late 1980s and early 1990s, and continues to be appreciated by car enthusiasts worldwide.
