The Toyota Starlet V 1.3i 16V Automatic, 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 generation, the Starlet V, offered a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and a relatively modern design for its time, appealing to a broad range of buyers seeking a compact city car. The “V” designation typically indicated a higher trim level with added features compared to base models.
Toyota Starlet V: A Detailed Overview
The Starlet, throughout its history, was known for its simplicity and dependability. The fifth generation continued this tradition, focusing on providing a no-frills transportation solution. The 1.3i 16V variant, equipped with a 1.3-liter engine and an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use and fuel economy. It served as a competitor to other small hatchbacks like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Peugeot 206 in its target markets.
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 not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving. The multi-port fuel injection system and double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain contribute to reasonable efficiency and responsiveness. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio of 12.1 kg/Hp allows for a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 10.6 to 11.2 seconds, and a top speed of 105.63 mph (170 km/h). The three-speed automatic transmission offers smooth gear changes, making it a comfortable option for urban commutes. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (36.2 US mpg), making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Design & Features
The Starlet V is a compact hatchback available in both three-door and five-door configurations, offering flexibility to suit different needs. Its design, while not groundbreaking, was considered modern for the late 1990s, featuring rounded edges and a relatively spacious interior for its size. The interior prioritizes functionality over luxury, with durable materials and a straightforward layout. Safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was becoming increasingly common on vehicles of this class. The Starlet V offers seating for five passengers and a trunk capacity of 214 liters (7.56 cu. ft.), sufficient for everyday groceries or luggage. Hydraulic power steering provides ease of maneuverability, particularly in tight urban environments. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 905 kg (1995.18 lbs) contributes to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Starlet |
| Generation | Starlet V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3i 16V (75 Hp) Automatic |
| 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 (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 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 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic 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 Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represents a solid and dependable choice in the compact hatchback segment. Its focus on fuel efficiency, reliability, and ease of use made it a popular option for drivers in Europe and Asia during its production run. It remains a testament to Toyota’s commitment to building practical and long-lasting vehicles.
