Toyota Starlet IV 1.45 D (55 Hp)

The Toyota Starlet IV 1.45 D (55 Hp), produced between 1989 and 1996, represents a significant iteration in Toyota’s long-running Starlet series. This fourth-generation Starlet, while not officially sold in the United States, was a popular subcompact hatchback primarily marketed in Europe, Japan, and other international markets. It occupied a crucial segment as an affordable, economical, and reliable vehicle, appealing to first-time car buyers and those seeking efficient urban transportation. The 1.45 D variant, powered by a diesel engine, was particularly favored in European markets due to its fuel efficiency and lower running costs.

Toyota Starlet IV: A Global Subcompact

The Starlet, throughout its various generations, consistently aimed to provide practical and dependable motoring. The fourth generation, launched in 1989, saw a refinement of the formula, with improvements in styling, interior space, and mechanical components. While the gasoline-powered versions were more common globally, the diesel-powered 1.45 D model carved a niche for itself, especially in regions where diesel fuel was readily available and economically advantageous. The Starlet IV was available in both 3-door and 5-door body styles, offering flexibility to suit different customer needs.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Starlet IV 1.45 D is a 1.5-liter (1453 cm³) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produced 55 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 91 Nm (67.12 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the diesel engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, particularly in urban environments. The engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common technology for diesel engines of that era, to improve combustion efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 14.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph was achieved in around 13.8 seconds. The top speed was recorded at 155 km/h (96.31 mph). A key characteristic of this model was its impressive fuel economy, achieving approximately 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers (50 US mpg or 60.1 UK mpg) on a combined cycle. This made it a very economical choice for drivers covering significant distances.

Design & Features

The Toyota Starlet IV 1.45 D is a compact, three or five-door hatchback. Its design was functional and understated, prioritizing practicality over flamboyant styling. The body lines were rounded and aerodynamic for the time, contributing to its fuel efficiency. Inside, the Starlet offered a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, comfortably accommodating five passengers. The interior was designed with durability and ease of use in mind, featuring simple controls and hard-wearing materials. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the early 1990s, included a steering rack and pinion system with hydraulic power steering, disc brakes on the front wheels, and drum brakes on the rear. The inclusion of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a notable feature for a vehicle in this class, enhancing braking performance and safety. Trunk space ranged from 225 liters (7.95 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 490 liters (17.3 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down, providing reasonable cargo capacity.

Technical Specifications

The Toyota Starlet IV 1.45 D, while a relatively simple vehicle by modern standards, represented a compelling package of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Its success in various international markets underscored Toyota’s ability to cater to diverse consumer needs and establish a strong reputation for building dependable automobiles.