1983 Toyota Starlet vs. 2012 Toyota iQ
To start off, 2012 Toyota iQ is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota iQ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota iQ (89 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (47 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota iQ should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota iQ weights approximately 110 kg more than 1983 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota iQ, 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 Toyota iQ (190 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (65 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota iQ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Toyota Starlet | 2012 Toyota iQ | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Starlet | iQ |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3051 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 32 L |
