1978 Toyota Starlet vs. 2004 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 is newer by 26 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo C70 (197 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo C70 weights approximately 801 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, 2004 Volvo C70, 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, 2004 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Toyota Starlet | 2004 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Starlet | C70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
