1971 Buick GS vs. 1990 Toyota Starlet

To start off, 1990 Toyota Starlet is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1990 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick GS weights approximately 822 kg more than 1990 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Buick GS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Toyota Starlet, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (101 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1971 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Toyota Starlet.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Buick GS 1990 Toyota Starlet
Make Buick Toyota
Model GS Starlet
Year Released 1971 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 1295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 394 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1632 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 5180 mm 3730 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2310 mm