1978 Toyota Starlet vs. 2012 Renault Symbol
To start off, 2012 Renault Symbol is newer by 34 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Renault Symbol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Renault Symbol (104 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Symbol should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Renault Symbol weights approximately 225 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, 2012 Renault Symbol, 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, 2012 Renault Symbol (148 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm). This means 2012 Renault Symbol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet. 2012 Renault Symbol 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. 2012 Renault Symbol will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Toyota Starlet | 2012 Renault Symbol | |
| Make | Toyota | Renault |
| Model | Starlet | Symbol |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4261 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1639 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1439 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2473 mm |
