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How much horsepower does a Toyota Starlet 1.3 have?

The Toyota Starlet 1.3 typically delivers around 90 horsepower, with real-world output commonly cited in the mid‑80s to low‑90s horsepower depending on market and model year. Exact figures vary by emissions tuning and regional specifications.


Engine and power basics


Most Starlet 1.3 models use the 1.3-liter inline-four engine commonly referred to by Toyota as the 4E-FE. This 1.3L DOHC, 16‑valve setup is tuned for compact-car efficiency, with peak power commonly reported around the 6,000 rpm mark and torque peaking in the mid-range. It is important to note that a turbocharged variant exists in the Starlet lineup (the GT Turbo), but that model is separate from the standard 1.3‑litre configuration and delivers substantially higher horsepower.


Power figures by market


The following figures illustrate typical horsepower ratings for common Starlet 1.3 configurations across markets.



  • Europe/UK: around 95 PS (about 70 kW) at roughly 6,000 rpm, with torque near 118–120 Nm.

  • Japan/Asia: around 90 PS (about 66 kW) at similar RPM, with torque typically in the 110–120 Nm range.

  • Other markets (Australia, Latin America, etc.): commonly reported in the mid‑80s to low‑90s PS (roughly 63–66 kW), depending on local emissions tuning.


Note: These figures refer to the non‑turbo 1.3‑liter Starlet. The turbocharged GT Turbo variant uses a different engine setup and yields substantially higher output.


What can cause variation?


Power can vary due to emission standards, tuning for a particular market, engine wear, and maintenance. Even within the same engine family, minor differences in ECU mapping or exhaust regulations can produce small shifts in peak horsepower. For precise figures, check the specific model year and market documentation or the vehicle’s VIN‑level specifications.


Summary


In practical terms, a Toyota Starlet 1.3 typically delivers around 85–95 horsepower, with most common specifications hovering near 90 hp (about 66 kW). Market and year influence the exact number, and turbo versions are not representative of the standard 1.3‑liter output.

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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.