The Toyota Starlet V 1.3i 16V, produced between 1996 and 1999, represents the fifth generation of Toyota’s long-running Starlet supermini. While not officially sold in the United States, the Starlet held a significant position in the European and Asian markets as an affordable, reliable, and economical hatchback. This particular iteration, the ‘V’ trim with the 1.3-liter 16-valve engine, aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency and respectable performance for its class. The Starlet competed with vehicles like the Peugeot 205, Renault Clio, and Volkswagen Polo, offering a practical and dependable option for urban commuters and first-time car buyers.
Toyota Starlet V: A Detailed Overview
The Starlet’s appeal lay in its simplicity and Toyota’s renowned build quality. The fifth generation, introduced in 1996, featured a more rounded and modern design compared to its predecessors. The ‘V’ trim level typically included features aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience, though it remained a relatively basic vehicle focused on functionality. The 1.3i 16V engine was a key component, offering a modest power output but proving to be durable and fuel-efficient. The Starlet was available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, catering to different lifestyle needs.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Starlet V 1.3i 16V is a 1.3-liter (1332 cc) inline-four cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 75 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 115 Nm (84.82 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4300 rpm. While these figures aren’t substantial by modern standards, they were adequate for the vehicle’s weight and intended purpose. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The Starlet V could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 11.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 12.1 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.9 kg/Nm indicate a reasonably balanced chassis. The engine’s power per liter is 56.3 Hp/l, demonstrating a focus on extracting usable power from a small displacement.
Design & Features
The Toyota Starlet V is a compact hatchback, measuring 3740 mm (147.24 in) in length, 1635 mm (64.37 in) in width, and 1400 mm (55.12 in) in height. It offers seating for five passengers and a trunk space of 214 liters (7.56 cu. ft.). The body style prioritizes practicality and ease of maneuverability in urban environments. Features were relatively basic for this era, focusing on essential comfort and safety. The Starlet V included a 5-speed manual transmission as standard. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the 1990s, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) which was becoming increasingly common. The suspension system consists of wishbone front suspension and coil springs in the rear, providing a comfortable ride. Hydraulic power steering was also standard, making the vehicle easier to handle. The vehicle’s curb weight of 905 kg (1995.18 lbs) contributed to its fuel efficiency and nimble handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Starlet |
| Generation | Starlet V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3i 16V (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 36.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 43.5 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 15.4 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 4300 rpm (84.82 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 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 | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 905 kg (1995.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1345 kg (2965.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 214 l (7.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3740 mm (147.24 in.) |
| Width | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2300 mm (90.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
The Toyota Starlet V 1.3i 16V, while a relatively simple vehicle, offered a compelling package of reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Its enduring appeal in markets outside of North America is a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess and its ability to create vehicles that meet the needs of everyday drivers.
