1978 Toyota Starlet vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1979 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 159 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Because 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 1978 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra, 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. 1979 Vauxhall Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1978 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Vauxhall Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Toyota Starlet | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Toyota | Vauxhall |
| Model | Starlet | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 74 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
