1996 Toyota Starlet V Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Toyota Starlet V is 905 kg (1,995 lbs), which refers to the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo. The maximum allowable weight, also known as Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), is 1345 kg (2,965 lbs). This maximum weight includes the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and fuel, so it indicates how much load the car is safely designed to handle.

The Toyota Starlet V offers a luggage capacity of 214 liters (7.56 cubic feet). This capacity is relatively modest, reflecting the car’s compact hatchback design, but it is sufficient for everyday errands and small grocery runs. The hatchback layout also allows for flexible cargo space when the rear seats are folded down, enhancing its practicality despite the limited standard cargo volume.

The Toyota Starlet V comes equipped with 13-inch rims and tires sized at 165/70 R13. These smaller rims and relatively narrow tires help improve fuel efficiency and steering responsiveness. They contribute to the car’s lightweight nature, enhancing maneuverability and ease of handling in urban environments, while also keeping running costs low.

Yes, the Toyota Starlet V fits comfortably in a standard garage. With a length of 3740 mm (147.2 inches), width of 1635 mm (64.4 inches), and height of 1400 mm (55.1 inches), it is smaller than the typical garage dimensions, which usually exceed 2400 mm (94.5 inches) in width and 4800 mm (188.9 inches) in length. Its compact size ensures easy parking and ample maneuvering space inside typical residential garages.

Compared to its predecessor (the Starlet IV), the Toyota Starlet V maintained a similar compact footprint but featured a more modern design and slightly refined dimensions to improve interior space utilization. While specific predecessor size metrics vary by market and model year, the Starlet V’s 3740 mm length and 1635 mm width represent a small evolution aimed at enhanced passenger comfort and urban practicality, keeping the car competitive and user-friendly.

During the late 1990s, the Toyota Starlet V was among the smaller hatchbacks, with dimensions that closely matched competitors like the Suzuki Swift and Honda Civic Hatchback. Its 3740 mm length and 1635 mm width positioned it as a city-friendly, easy-to-maneuver option. While some rivals were slightly longer or wider, the Starlet's balance of compactness and interior space made it a standout for drivers seeking efficient, practical transport.

Yes, the Toyota Starlet V was engineered to maximize passenger comfort within a compact footprint. With its efficient use of interior space, it comfortably seats four adults, with adequate headroom and legroom courtesy of its 1400 mm height and well-thought ergonomic cabin layout. While it prioritizes urban efficiency, the car does not compromise significantly on occupant comfort for short to medium journeys.

The Starlet V's exterior features a short front and rear overhang due to its hatchback design, contributing to a compact overall length of 3740 mm and enabling tight cornering and easy parking. Its relatively narrow width of 1635 mm helps in navigating narrow city streets and parking spaces. Rounded edges and a low height of 1400 mm make it less prone to curb scrapes and provide better visibility for the driver in congested environments.

The compact dimensions and light weight of the Toyota Starlet V (905 kg curb weight) significantly contribute to its fuel efficiency and nimble driving experience. Smaller dimensions reduce aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, while the light curb weight helps the engine perform with less effort. This results in better fuel consumption figures and agile handling, perfect for city driving and daily commutes, making the Starlet V an economical and practical choice during its production years.