What year is the EP82 Starlet?
The EP82 Starlet is the Toyota Starlet GT Turbo produced in the mid-1990s, typically the 1994–1995 model years (with some markets extending to 1996).
Understanding the EP82 designation
The EP82 is the chassis code used by Toyota for the Starlet's turbocharged GT Turbo variant. It identifies a specific generation and trim that sits within the third generation of Starlets, built mainly for performance-focused buyers in Japan and selected export markets during the mid-1990s.
Meaning of the letters and numbers
In Toyota’s coding scheme, "EP" denotes the platform family for the Starlet, while the "82" pinpoints the specific variant (the two-door GT Turbo). This distinguishes EP82 from contemporaries like EP91 (a later 5-door variant) and from non-turbo variants within the same generation.
Production years and market availability
How long the EP82 was sold varied by market, but the widely recognized window is the mid-1990s, with the initial introduction in 1994 and production continuing through 1995, and in some markets into 1996 before the model line transitioned to later generations.
- Introduced in 1994 as Toyota Starlet GT Turbo (EP82) in Japan
- Sold in select export markets (including Europe and the UK) through the mid-1990s
- Often succeeded by later Starlet iterations (notably EP91) around 1996–1999 depending on market
The EP82 remains notable for its lightweight, three-door hatch design and turbocharged engine, which gave the Starlet a performance edge among its peers in the era.
Key features of the EP82 GT Turbo
Below are the core attributes that defined the EP82 GT Turbo variant.
- Engine: 1.3-liter turbocharged 4E-FTE
- Body style: 3-door hatchback
- Power output: around 133 PS (approximately 98 kW) in stock form
- Transmission: typically 5-speed manual; some markets offered optional automatic transmissions
- Performance notes: lightweight chassis with responsive handling and turbo boost characteristic
These characteristics helped the EP82 earn a place in the history of affordable hot hatchbacks during the 1990s.
How to identify an EP82 Starlet today
If you’re trying to verify an EP82, look for specific identifiers that tie it to the GT Turbo variant of the Starlet's early 1990s lineup.
- Chassis code plate and documentation indicating EP82
- GT Turbo badges on the exterior and engine bay labeling
- Engine code 4E-FTE and related turbocharged setup
Because the EP82 is relatively rare outside of Japan and some markets, provenance and a clean VIN/E-series plate are valuable for collectors and enthusiasts.
Summary
The EP82 Starlet refers to the Toyota Starlet GT Turbo variant produced in the mid-1990s, most commonly identified with model years around 1994–1995 (with some markets extending to 1996). It is distinguished by its turbocharged 1.3L engine, lightweight 3-door chassis, and dedicated GT Turbo branding, making it a sought-after classic among hot-hatch enthusiasts.
