1996 Toyota Starlet vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Starlet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1996 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Starlet. (101 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota Starlet | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Starlet | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1332 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
