How many miles per gallon does a 1998 Toyota Starlet get?
The 1998 Toyota Starlet, a compact hatchback produced for several markets, was designed with efficiency in mind. Fuel economy varies by market, engine option, and transmission, so figures can differ widely.
Typically, combined fuel economy for a 1998 Starlet sits in the mid-30s to around 40 miles per gallon (US). Highway mileage often lands in the low-to-mid 40s, while city driving can dip into the 20s to mid-30s depending on conditions and drivetrain.
What influences the Starlet’s fuel economy
Several factors determine how efficiently a 1998 Starlet uses fuel. The following list outlines the main variables you’ll encounter across markets.
- Engine displacement and design (smaller engines generally use less fuel).
- Transmission type (manual transmissions typically achieve better economy than automatics in this era).
- Vehicle condition and maintenance (proper tire pressure, clean air filters, and timely tune-ups matter).
- Driving style and conditions (steady speeds, gentle acceleration, and occasional cruising can improve efficiency).
- Load and aero drag (roof racks, roof boxes, and added weight reduce mpg).
- Fuel quality and ambient temperature (cold weather and substandard fuel can lower efficiency).
These factors help explain why real-world figures vary by region and driver.
Representative ranges by configuration
Below are typical ranges reported for common setups in 1998 Starlet models. Figures are approximate and based on owner reports and regional tests.
- Manual transmission: combined around 38–44 mpg US; highway around 40–46 mpg; city roughly 30–34 mpg.
- Automatic transmission: combined around 34–40 mpg US; highway around 38–42 mpg; city around 28–32 mpg.
Note: The Starlet’s exact numbers depend on the specific market and engine variant used. For precise figures, consult period brochures or a regional fuel economy database for the exact trim and year.
Regional testing and conversions
In Europe and other markets that report fuel economy in liters per 100 kilometers (L/100km), mixed driving for a 1998 Starlet typically falls in the 5.0–6.0 L/100km range. This translates to roughly 39–47 mpg in US terms, depending on the test cycle and driving conditions. Always reference the local standard when interpreting the figures.
Summary
The 1998 Toyota Starlet generally delivers mid-30s to around 40 mpg in mixed driving, with manual versions tending to be more economical than automatics. Real-world results depend on engine choice, maintenance, driving habits, and regional testing standards. For the most accurate figure, check the exact market brochure or a country-specific fuel economy database for the trim and year in question.
