1997 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 45.2 mpg US - 54.3 mpg UK - 5.2 L/100km, a weight of 1940 lbs (880 kg), the Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X has a water cooling 4 cylinder DOHC16 valve engine, a Regular gasoline engine 4E-FE. This engine 4E-FE produces a maximum power of 86.1 PS (85 bhp - 63.3 kW) at 5500 rpm and a maximum torque of 117.6 Nm (86.7 lb.ft - 12 kg.m) at 4400 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the front wheel drive (FF) with a 5MT gearbox. For stopping power, the Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 155/80 on 13 inch rims 79S at the rear and 155/80 on 13 inch rims 79S at the front. Chassis details - Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X has trailing twist beam type coil spring rear suspension and strut coil spring front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 23, 2024

Introduction

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" holds its place as a distinctive hatchback, representing Toyota's commitment to quality and efficiency during this period. This compact vehicle offers a balanced blend of performance, economy, and functionality. With its production spanning from December 1997 to August 1999, the Reflet X variant stands out for its thoughtful engineering and features.

Designed with a front-wheel-drive layout, this hatchback is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission for an engaging driving experience. The car's compact dimensions make it well-suited for urban environments, where maneuverability is key. Its body type, a 3-door hatchback, adds to its sporty appeal and convenience.

Under the hood, the Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X houses a 1.3-liter engine (engine code: 4E-FE) with a displacement of 1331 cm³. This 4-cylinder DOHC16 valve engine strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, catering to both city commutes and longer journeys. With maximum power output reaching 86.1 PS at 5500 rpm and a torque of 117.6 Nm at 4400 rpm, it offers a spirited performance within its category.

The vehicle's dimensions emphasize its practicality without sacrificing comfort. A wheelbase of 230 cm and a weight of 880 kg contribute to stability and agility. Inside, there's ample space for five passengers, complemented by a reasonable fuel tank capacity of 11.8 US gallons (45 liters), ensuring fewer stops at the pump.

Safety features include drivers and passengers airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and a durable frame. The front suspension consists of a strut coil spring design, while the rear features a trailing twist beam type coil spring, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride.

The Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X's features are further enriched by amenities such as power windows and power steering. The interior is designed for practicality, featuring adjustable steering and power-adjustable door mirrors. Additional options like automatic air conditioning and a radio add to the driving comfort.

In essence, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" encapsulates Toyota's dedication to delivering a well-rounded hatchback that caters to both the practical needs of daily driving and the desire for an enjoyable driving experience. With its compact size, economical engine, and thoughtful features, this model offers a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile urban companion.

Model Overview

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" exemplifies Toyota's dedication to producing practical and efficient vehicles with a touch of sportiness. As part of the Starlet lineup, the Reflet X variant offers a distinct blend of features that cater to a wide range of drivers.

Positioned as a compact hatchback, the Reflet X presents a 3-door body type that not only adds to its aesthetics but also enhances its urban maneuverability. It's well-suited for city commutes and tight parking spaces. The model's production span from December 1997 to August 1999, allowing it to showcase its qualities in a relatively short timeframe.

The Reflet X variant boasts a front-wheel-drive configuration, contributing to its nimble handling characteristics. Equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, it allows for precise gear changes, adding to the driving engagement. Under the hood, the 1.3-liter engine (4E-FE) showcases Toyota's commitment to efficiency without sacrificing performance.

With an emphasis on practicality, the vehicle's dimensions strike a balance between interior space and exterior proportions. The interior comfortably accommodates up to five passengers, ensuring a versatile driving experience. The compact size makes it a breeze to navigate through crowded streets, while the wheelbase and weight contribute to its stability on the road.

Safety features, such as airbags and safety belt pretensioners, underline Toyota's commitment to passenger protection. The suspension design, including the strut coil spring at the front and trailing twist beam type coil spring at the rear, provides a well-balanced ride quality.

The model's interior showcases functional features like power windows, power steering, and adjustable steering, all of which enhance the driving experience. Depending on the preferences of the driver, options like power-adjustable door mirrors and centralized door locks offer convenience and practicality.

In essence, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" captures the essence of a practical urban hatchback with a touch of sophistication. Its compact dimensions, economical engine, and thoughtful features make it an attractive choice for drivers seeking a reliable and efficient daily driver that doesn't compromise on comfort or style.

Engine Specifications

At the heart of the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" lies an efficient and capable engine that embodies the balance between performance and economy. The model is powered by a 1.3-liter engine (4E-FE), showcasing Toyota's commitment to engineering excellence.

The 4E-FE engine is a water-cooled, 4-cylinder DOHC16 valve powerplant. Its displacement of 1331 cm³ enables a harmonious blend of power and efficiency, making it well-suited for both city driving and longer journeys. With maximum power output of 86.1 PS at 5500 rpm, the engine provides sufficient acceleration for a vehicle of this class.

Torque is equally important, and the 4E-FE engine delivers with a peak torque of 117.6 Nm at 4400 rpm. This torque characteristic ensures a responsive driving experience in various speed ranges, allowing for confident overtaking and smooth city navigation.

The engine operates on regular gasoline, contributing to its cost-effective ownership. Its 10 compression ratio further enhances fuel efficiency and overall performance. The Reflet X model demonstrates its commitment to eco-friendliness with its fuel consumption figures, including an impressive 45.2 mpg in the 10/15 mode and 69.1 mpg at 60 km/h mode.

The 5-speed manual transmission, an integral part of the driving experience, allows drivers to extract the best out of the engine's capabilities. Gear ratios such as 1st gear ratio of 3.545, 2nd gear ratio of 1.904, and others are optimized to balance acceleration and fuel economy.

In conclusion, the engine specifications of the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" showcase Toyota's commitment to providing a balanced powerplant that offers both performance and fuel efficiency. With its 4E-FE engine, this model exemplifies Toyota's engineering prowess, delivering a driving experience that's engaging, economical, and environmentally conscious.

Performance Metrics

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" demonstrates its performance prowess through a harmonious integration of power and handling, making it a compelling option in its class. The model's performance metrics underline its suitability for both urban driving and highway journeys.

Acceleration is a noteworthy aspect of the Reflet X's performance. With a 1.3-liter engine generating a maximum power output of 86.1 PS, the vehicle offers responsive acceleration that suits various driving conditions. Whether navigating through city traffic or merging onto highways, the engine's power ensures confidence-inspiring acceleration.

The Reflet X's torque delivery further contributes to its performance capabilities. The engine's peak torque of 117.6 Nm provides ample low and mid-range power, enabling quick and smooth overtaking maneuvers. This characteristic enhances the car's versatility, allowing it to perform effectively in different driving scenarios.

The 5-speed manual transmission plays a crucial role in translating the engine's power into dynamic performance. The gear ratios are optimized to strike a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency. These ratios enable drivers to make the most of the engine's power band, offering a satisfying driving experience.

The model's lightweight construction and compact dimensions contribute to its agility and nimble handling. It can navigate through tight city streets with ease, while the suspension setup ensures a comfortable ride. The combination of a strut coil spring front suspension and a trailing twist beam type coil spring rear suspension results in stable and balanced handling characteristics.

In summary, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" offers a performance package that caters to a wide range of driving preferences. Its well-engineered powertrain, responsive acceleration, and dynamic handling make it a versatile and engaging choice for those seeking a compact hatchback that performs admirably in various scenarios.

Fuel Efficiency

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, showcasing Toyota's commitment to providing economical driving without compromising on performance. This hatchback stands out as an example of how thoughtful engineering can lead to impressive fuel consumption figures.

The 1.3-liter engine (4E-FE) that powers the Reflet X has been optimized to deliver a balance between power and fuel efficiency. With its water-cooled, 4-cylinder DOHC16 valve configuration, the engine efficiently burns fuel to generate power, resulting in commendable fuel consumption figures.

In the 10/15 mode, the Reflet X achieves a fuel consumption of 45.2 mpg, demonstrating its frugal nature during city driving conditions. This makes it an ideal companion for daily commutes and stop-and-go traffic, where fuel efficiency is a priority. Even at higher speeds, the model continues to impress with its fuel efficiency, achieving 69.1 mpg in the 60 km/h mode.

The manual transmission, with its well-designed gear ratios, complements the engine's efficiency. The transmission allows drivers to make the most of the engine's power band while ensuring minimal wastage of fuel. This thoughtful pairing contributes to the overall fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

The Reflet X's aerodynamic design and lightweight construction also contribute to its impressive fuel efficiency. By reducing air resistance and overall weight, the vehicle requires less energy to move, further enhancing its economical nature.

To sum up, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" underscores Toyota's dedication to delivering a fuel-efficient vehicle that meets the demands of modern driving. Its carefully engineered powertrain, aerodynamics, and lightweight design all play a role in achieving exceptional fuel consumption figures, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize economical and eco-friendly driving.

Dimensions and Sizes

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" is defined by its compact dimensions, offering a balance between practicality and agility. These dimensions make it an ideal choice for urban environments and tight parking spaces while providing ample interior space for passengers.

The exterior dimensions of the Reflet X reflect its compact nature. With an exterior length of 376 cm, width of 162.5 cm, and height of 140 cm, the hatchback's proportions are optimized for maneuvering through city streets and crowded areas. Its compact size allows for easy parking and nimble navigation, making it a suitable companion for daily commutes.

The interior dimensions of the vehicle are thoughtfully designed to maximize passenger comfort. With an interior length of 170.5 cm, width of 138 cm, and height of 118 cm, the cabin provides a cozy yet functional space for both the driver and passengers. The vehicle comfortably seats up to five individuals, ensuring a practical and versatile ride experience.

The wheelbase of 230 cm contributes to the car's stability on the road, enhancing its handling characteristics. The front and rear axle lengths of 140 cm and 140.5 cm, respectively, further contribute to the vehicle's balanced proportions. The ride height or ground clearance of 14.5 cm strikes a balance between road clearance and stability.

Weighing in at 880 kg, the Reflet X's lightweight construction adds to its agility and fuel efficiency. Despite its compact dimensions, the vehicle offers a minimum turning circle of 4.4 meters, further enhancing its maneuverability in tight spaces.

To summarize, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" showcases dimensions that are tailored for urban living. Its compact exterior dimensions facilitate city navigation and parking, while its interior dimensions provide comfortable seating for passengers. With its well-considered proportions and lightweight design, the Reflet X is a practical and agile hatchback for various driving scenarios.

Wheel Specifications

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" boasts wheel specifications that contribute to its overall performance, handling, and aesthetics. The well-engineered wheels play a pivotal role in enhancing the driving experience of this compact hatchback.

The front and rear wheels are equipped with tires that offer a balanced combination of comfort and traction. The front tires feature dimensions of 155/80 R13 79S, while the rear tires mirror the same dimensions. This uniform tire size contributes to consistent handling characteristics and ensures even wear across all four wheels.

The choice of wheel dimensions aligns with the Reflet X's compact nature, allowing for agile maneuverability while maintaining a comfortable ride. The wheels provide ample grip on various road surfaces, enhancing the vehicle's stability and control during driving.

The wheel rims are sized to accommodate the respective tires, ensuring a secure fit and optimal performance. The aluminum disk material used for the wheels strikes a balance between durability and weight, enhancing the overall efficiency of the vehicle.

The wheel specifications of the Reflet X contribute to its overall handling characteristics, traction, and aesthetics. The careful selection of tire size and rim dimensions ensures that the vehicle maintains a harmonious balance between ride comfort, stability, and maneuverability. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on longer journeys, the wheel specifications of the Reflet X complement its overall performance package.

Trim Levels and Features

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" offers a range of trim levels and features that cater to different preferences and priorities. This variety allows buyers to select a configuration that aligns with their needs, ensuring a customized driving experience.

The Reflet X trim stands out with a blend of functional and comfort-oriented features. These features contribute to an enjoyable driving environment that caters to both the driver and passengers. Power windows are among the convenience features, allowing easy adjustment of windows for all occupants.

Power steering is a standard feature in the Reflet X trim, enhancing maneuverability and reducing driver effort, especially during city driving. This feature is particularly valuable when navigating tight spaces and parking.

The inclusion of power-adjustable door mirrors adds to the vehicle's convenience, allowing drivers to customize mirror positions for optimal visibility. This feature proves useful when switching between different drivers or adjusting mirrors based on changing road conditions.

The Reflet X's interior is designed for practicality and comfort. Adjustable steering ensures that drivers can find their preferred driving position, reducing fatigue during long journeys. The inclusion of centralized door locks adds to security and convenience, allowing the driver to lock or unlock all doors with ease.

While the Reflet X trim offers a range of practical features, it focuses on providing essential amenities that enhance the driving experience. These features, combined with the model's overall engineering excellence, make the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" an attractive option for those seeking a well-rounded and customizable hatchback.

Generational Changes

During its production from 1997 to 1999, the "Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" remained consistent in terms of its generational design and features. This stable approach meant that the model retained its core characteristics throughout its production years, offering buyers a reliable and familiar option in the compact hatchback segment.

The Reflet X maintained its distinctive 3-door hatchback body type throughout its production run, emphasizing sportiness and practicality. Its compact dimensions continued to cater to urban driving needs, allowing easy navigation through crowded streets and parking spaces.

While some vehicles undergo significant generational changes over time, the Reflet X's stability in design highlights Toyota's confidence in the initial engineering and features of the model. This approach may have been driven by the positive reception and continued demand for the original design and features.

Buyers seeking the Reflet X during its production years could expect a consistent package of performance, fuel efficiency, and features. While some minor updates or adjustments might have occurred, the model's core essence remained unchanged, offering a dependable choice for those who valued its established attributes.

In essence, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" remained largely consistent in terms of generational changes, reflecting Toyota's confidence in the initial design and features. This stability allowed the model to maintain its identity and appeal, offering buyers a reliable and familiar option in the compact hatchback category.

Interior Space and Comfort

The interior of the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and functional space for both the driver and passengers. Despite its compact size, the model prioritizes practicality and comfort, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Inside the cabin, the Reflet X offers generous interior dimensions that cater to various body types. The interior length of 170.5 cm, width of 138 cm, and height of 118 cm ensure ample space for both the front and rear occupants. This thoughtful design contributes to a comfortable ride, especially during longer journeys.

The model's seating arrangement accommodates up to five passengers, making it an ideal option for small families or groups of friends. The seating configuration is designed to optimize space without sacrificing comfort, allowing occupants to enjoy the journey without feeling cramped.

The adjustable steering feature enables drivers to find their preferred driving position, reducing fatigue during extended drives. While features like power windows and power-adjustable door mirrors enhance convenience, the Reflet X's interior focuses on offering essential amenities that enhance the driving experience.

Despite its compact dimensions, the Reflet X maximizes its interior space to create a cozy and inviting environment. The vehicle's thoughtful engineering ensures that passengers have adequate legroom, headroom, and overall comfort. This emphasis on interior space and comfort sets the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" apart as a versatile and enjoyable compact hatchback.

Safety Features

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" prioritizes safety by offering a range of features designed to protect both the driver and passengers. Toyota's commitment to passenger well-being is evident through the inclusion of various safety measures, ensuring peace of mind on the road.

Front airbags are a standard safety feature in the Reflet X trim. These airbags provide an essential layer of protection in the event of a collision, minimizing the potential impact on the driver and front passenger. The presence of airbags underscores Toyota's dedication to passenger safety.

Safety belt pretensioners are another notable feature of the Reflet X, ensuring that occupants are securely restrained in the event of a sudden stop or collision. These pretensioners reduce seat belt slack, keeping passengers firmly in place during critical moments.

The model's safety package extends to include side impact bars, enhancing the structural integrity of the vehicle's doors. In the event of a side collision, these bars provide an additional layer of protection to minimize the impact on passengers.

Child car restraints, including durable frame construction, highlight Toyota's commitment to protecting young passengers. These features create a secure environment for children seated in the back, contributing to a safer family driving experience.

Overall, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" prioritizes safety by incorporating essential features that enhance passenger protection. From airbags to safety belt pretensioners and child car restraints, these safety measures contribute to a safer driving experience, emphasizing Toyota's commitment to passenger well-being on the road.

Ownership Costs

The "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" presents an ownership experience that combines reasonable upfront costs with economical ongoing expenses. This hatchback is designed with efficiency and practicality in mind, contributing to lower ownership costs over the vehicle's lifespan.

The initial purchase price of the Reflet X is competitive within its segment, offering a budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable and well-rounded compact hatchback. Toyota's reputation for quality and durability adds value to the ownership experience, as the vehicle is likely to require fewer repairs and replacements over time.

The model's fuel efficiency is a standout feature that directly impacts ownership costs. The 1.3-liter engine's impressive fuel consumption figures ensure fewer trips to the pump, resulting in lower fuel expenses. Whether used for daily commutes or longer journeys, the Reflet X's economical fuel consumption contributes to significant savings over time.

Routine maintenance is another aspect that positively affects ownership costs. Toyota's service network and widespread availability of parts make maintenance relatively affordable. The vehicle's durable construction and engineering further contribute to reduced maintenance needs, leading to fewer visits to the mechanic and potential savings in repair costs.

In terms of insurance, the Reflet X's safety features and Toyota's brand reputation for reliability can potentially translate to lower insurance premiums. This further enhances the ownership experience by reducing ongoing expenses.

In summary, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" offers an ownership experience that balances initial costs with ongoing savings. Its competitive purchase price, fuel efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and potential insurance benefits make it a cost-effective choice for individuals seeking an economical and dependable compact hatchback.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" stands as a testament to Toyota's commitment to engineering excellence, practicality, and efficiency. This compact hatchback encompasses a range of features and specifications that cater to the needs of urban drivers, families, and those seeking an economical and reliable mode of transportation.

From its compact dimensions designed for city navigation to its well-balanced 1.3-liter engine that strikes a harmony between power and efficiency, the Reflet X offers a well-rounded driving experience. Its interior space is designed for comfort, accommodating passengers and ensuring a pleasant journey.

Safety features, including airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and side impact bars, underscore Toyota's dedication to passenger protection. These measures contribute to a safer driving experience for all occupants.

The Reflet X's ownership costs are a notable highlight, combining a competitive purchase price, excellent fuel efficiency, and low maintenance requirements. This makes the model an economical choice for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

While the Reflet X maintains a consistent design throughout its production years, its stability and reliability are key strengths. This steadfast approach reflects Toyota's confidence in the original design and features, providing buyers with a dependable and familiar option in the compact hatchback category.

In essence, the "1997-1999 Toyota Starlet 1.3 Reflet X" is a practical and versatile vehicle that excels in urban environments and beyond. Its combination of features, performance, safety, and economical ownership costs make it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a dependable and efficient compact hatchback.

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