1990 Toyota Starlet vs. 1988 Volvo 245
To start off, 1990 Toyota Starlet is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 245 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1990 Toyota Starlet.
Because 1988 Volvo 245 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 1988 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Toyota Starlet, 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, 1988 Volvo 245 (158 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Toyota Starlet | 1988 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Starlet | 245 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2660 mm |
