1978 Toyota Starlet vs. 2003 Scion xB
To start off, 2003 Scion xB is newer by 25 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Scion xB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Scion xB (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Scion xB should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Scion xB weights approximately 335 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Scion xB, 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, 2003 Scion xB (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Scion xB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet. 2003 Scion xB 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. 2003 Scion xB will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Toyota Starlet | 2003 Scion xB | |
| Make | Toyota | Scion |
| Model | Starlet | xB |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
