2003 Saturn L vs. 1978 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 25 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 545 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, 2003 Saturn L, 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet. 2003 Saturn L 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. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saturn L | 1978 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Saturn | Toyota |
| Model | L | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
