2009 Toyota 4Runner vs. 1984 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 4,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (260 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1984 Toyota Starlet. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1984 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 285 kg more than 1984 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Toyota Starlet. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Toyota Starlet. (75 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Toyota Starlet. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 1984 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1984 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota 4Runner | 1984 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | 4Runner | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4664 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 415 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2310 mm |
