1999 Toyota Prius vs. 1981 Toyota Celica
To start off, 1999 Toyota Prius is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Celica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Prius (127 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Celica. (107 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Prius weights approximately 505 kg more than 1981 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Celica 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 1981 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius, 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, 1981 Toyota Celica (147 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 1981 Toyota Celica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota Prius | 1981 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Prius | Celica |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
