1998 Toyota Starlet Life review from Australia and New Zealand
"An inexpensive, yet highly entertaining small car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The only faults I have with the car is that the plastic (air bag) steering wheel is obviously not up to the Australian sun, as it has started to deteriorate.
I've noticed the same problem with one relation's Starlet of approximately the same vintage, but not with a 1996 model which has the original non-air bag steering wheel.
General comments?
The car has been fantastic fun from the moment I bought it.
It has always been economical to run and great to drive.
The only reason we're looking to change cars now is simply because the Starlet is too small for our future needs.
We'll definitely be back to Toyota, though!
Recommended Reviews:
1998 - Starlet 1.3 gasoline (2E) The best in its class | |
![]() ![]() | 1997 - Starlet Sportif 5 Door 1.3 petrol Why oh why did Toyota stop making this model? |
All 1998 Toyota Starlet reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 Twin-Cam EFI Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 155000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Festiva |
| Date of Entry | 1st June, 2004 |



