Toyota Starlet for Sale in South Africa: Everything You Should Know

The Toyota Starlet, a compact and fuel-efficient hatchback, carved a niche for itself in the South African market for decades. Its production began in 1978 and spanned five generations, ending in 1999.

Initially a subcompact, it grew slightly with each iteration, eventually competing in the compact car segment. South Africans appreciated the Starlets reliability, affordability, and spirited driving dynamics. So, let us take a look at the Toyota Starlet for sale in South Africa in detail, which can help you decide whether you should opt for it or not.

Generations of the Toyota Starlet

First Generation (1978-1981): The original Starlet (KP30) was a lightweight two-door hatchback known for its nimble handling. It came with a 1.2-liter or 1.3-liter engine, offering decent fuel economy.

Second Generation (1981-1986): The second-generation Starlet (KP60) adopted a boxier design and offered a wider range of body styles, including a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback. Engine options included a 1.3-liter and a 1.5-liter unit.

Third Generation (1986-1990): The third-generation Starlet (AL20) received a significant redesign, boasting a more modern and aerodynamic look. It introduced a 1.6-liter engine option, further enhancing performance.

Fourth Generation (1990-1996): The fourth-generation Starlet (NP80) saw a refinement in style and incorporated fuel injection technology for improved efficiency. It retained the 1.3-liter and 1.6-liter engines, along with the introduction of a sporty GT model.

Fifth Generation (1996-1999): The final generation Starlet (NCP90) offered a more spacious and comfortable interior. However, engine options remained the same, with a focus on fuel economy and practicality.

Trims and Features of the Toyota Starlet

The Starlets trim levels vary slightly across generations but generally include base, mid-range, and sporty options. Here is a glimpse into some common trims:

Base: This trim offers essential features like manual transmission, AM radio, and cloth upholstery.

Mid-Range: These trims add amenities like power windows, air conditioning, and a sunroof (depending on generation).

Sporty: The GT trim, available in later generations, boasts sportier suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive appearance.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

The Toyota Starlet for sale engine lineup consists primarily of four-cylinder units, known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. Here is a breakdown of the commonly available engines:

1.2-liter: This engine, found in the first generation, offers good fuel economy but limited power.

1.3-liter: The most common engine throughout the Starlets lifespan, it provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

1.5-liter: Introduced in the second generation, this engine offers more power for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.

1.6-liter: The largest engine option, available from the third generation onwards, delivers strong performance without sacrificing too much fuel efficiency.

Interior and Exterior Design

The Toyota Starlets design evolved significantly over its five generations, reflecting changing automotive trends and consumer preferences. Here is a closer look at the exterior and interior design elements across the Starlets lifespan:

Exterior Design:

Early Generations (KP30 & KP60): The first two generations embraced a boxy, utilitarian aesthetic. The KP30, a two-door hatchback, offers a sporty look with its sloping roofline. The KP60 introduced a four-door sedan option alongside the five-door hatchback, catering to a wider audience. However, both generations feature prominent rectangular headlights and a simple, clean grille design.

Third Generation (AL20): This generation marks a significant shift towards a more modern and aerodynamic look. The boxy lines are softened and replaced by curves and a more integrated design language. The headlights are sleeker, and the overall silhouette conveys a more dynamic feel.

Fourth Generation (NP80): Refined further, the NP80 adopts a smoother, more rounded exterior. The headlights are angled for a sharper appearance, and the taillights are restyled for a more contemporary look. The introduction of the sporty GT model adds distinct features like alloy wheels, a lower ride height, and a more aggressive front bumper.

Fifth Generation (NCP90): The final generation retains the overall rounded design but offers a slightly taller profile, suggesting a more spacious interior. The headlights are redesigned yet again, featuring a more oval shape, and the taillights are more integrated into the bodywork.

Interior Design:

Focus on Functionality: Throughout its generations, the Starlet prioritizes functionality within its compact cabin. The dashboard layout is simple and driver-oriented, with essential controls readily accessible. The instrument cluster offers basic information like speed, fuel level, and engine temperature.

Seating and Cargo Space: The Starlet can comfortably accommodate four passengers, with decent legroom and headroom for its size. The rear seats typically fold down to expand cargo capacity, making it suitable for everyday errands or weekend getaways.

Material Quality: You will find the material quality to be durable. The interior primarily consists of hard plastics, with basic cloth upholstery for the seats. Moreover, higher trims might offer upgraded features like plusher fabric or leather-wrapped steering wheels.

Evolution of Features:

While the core design principles remain consistent, later generations offer some interior upgrades:

Later Models: Some later models incorporate features like digital clocks, tachometers for the sporty trims, and more sophisticated audio systems.

Storage Solutions: Cupholders and cubbyholes for storage become more common in later generations, improving practicality and convenience.

Overall, the Toyota Starlets design reflects its focus on affordability and practicality. While not boasting luxury materials or cutting-edge technology, the Starlet offers a comfortable and functional driving experience that resonates with South African car buyers to date.

Technology and Safety Features

You will find quite basic technology features in the Starlet compared to modern cars. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect:

Comfort and Convenience:

Manual or Automatic Climate Control: Standard features include manual ventilation, while higher trims offer manual air conditioning for a more comfortable driving experience.

Audio System: AM/FM radio and cassette players are standard, with some later models featuring CD players or rudimentary built-in radios with rudimentary cassette functionality. Higher trims might also boast features like multi-speakers or a graphic equalizer.

Power Accessories: Power windows and power locks are not standard but became available on higher trims or later generations. Occasionally, you could also find sunroofs.

Safety:

Passive Safety: Standard safety equipment typically includes lap belts for all occupants and a collapsible steering column to minimize injury in a frontal collision.

Active Safety (Later Generations): Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are introduced as an option on higher trim levels in later generations. ABS helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, maintaining steering control and improving stopping distances.

Security: Most Starlets come equipped with an immobilizer and an alarm system to deter theft. However, remote keyless entry is a feature reserved for the top trims in the final generation.

While safety features may seem limited by todays standards, the Starlets robust chassis construction and focus on driver control contribute to its reputation as a safe and reliable car.

Important Considerations When Buying a Used Toyota Starlet

Before purchasing a Toyota Starlet secondhand, it is crucial to consider a few factors:

Condition: The Starlets age means thorough inspection is vital. Look for signs of rust, wear and tear, and any potential mechanical issues.

Service History: A well-maintained Starlet with a documented service history will be a more reliable purchase.

Mileage: While the Starlet is known for its durability, very high-mileage cars may require more frequent repairs.

Parts Availability: Finding replacement parts for an older car can be challenging. Ensure essential parts are readily available before making a purchase.

The Toyota Starlet price in South Africa lies between USD 6,000 and USD 14,000, depending on the make and model.

Wrapping Up

All in all, the used Toyota Starlet for sale has a special place in the hearts of South African drivers. Its combination of reliability, affordability, and engaging driving dynamics make it a popular choice for years. Moreover, the Starlet remains a tempting option for those seeking a classic, fuel-efficient car. With careful research and due diligence, you can find a well-maintained Starlet that will provide years of enjoyment on South African roads.