🚗 Toyota Starlet GT Turbo EP91 – JDM Fun in a Tiny Package
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 6, 2025
If you’re into lightweight turbo hatchbacks with serious personality, the Toyota Starlet GT Turbo EP91—known in Japan as the Glanza V—might just steal your heart. 💓 This little rocket combines Toyota reliability, solid modding potential, and cult classic status, all packed into a compact body that’s built for fun. Let’s take a ride through its specs, strengths, quirks, and why it could be your next favorite JDM toy. 🏁🇯🇵
🚗 Toyota Starlet GT Turbo EP91 (Glanza V) – Full Review
Let’s take a deep dive into the Toyota Starlet GT Turbo EP91—also known in Japan as the Glanza V. From its spicy turbocharged engine to its cult classic status, here’s everything you need to know. 🔧🏁
📘 Full & Accurate Details
🔋 Engine & Performance
- Powered by a turbocharged 1.3L 4E-FTE inline-4 engine 🏎️
- Produces around 135 PS (~99 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 157 Nm torque at 4,800 rpm
- Equipped with a CT9 turbo, top-mounted air-cooled intercooler, and low/high boost settings ⚙️
- Lightweight body: ~890–920 kg wet—gives an impressive power-to-weight ratio ⚖️
⚙️ Drivetrain & Transmission
- 5-speed manual (C56) or 4-speed auto (C52/C242E)
- Some variants come with LSD and chassis stiffening (strut braces) for added grip 🔩
📏 Chassis & Dimensions
- 3-door hatchback body, seating for up to 5 people
- Wheelbase: ~2,300 mm | Length: ~3,805 mm | Width: ~1,620 mm | Height: ~1,380 mm
🛋️ Interior & Equipment
- Basic and minimalist—no airbags or ABS in most models
- Later versions may have ABS and rear LSD as upgrades
⚖️ Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Pure driving fun: responsive acceleration and nimble handling
- Fuel-efficient: over 40 mpg (~6 L/100 km) when driven calmly ⛽
- Bulletproof Toyota reliability—many run past 300,000 km with love ❤️
- Highly moddable: turbo swaps, styling upgrades, suspension tuning 🔧
- Rarity and cult appeal make it desirable among JDM fans 😍
👎 Cons
- Parts are rare and expensive outside Japan 🌍💸
- Common aging problems:
- Cracked turbo manifolds
- Water leaks near windshield seals
- Cylinder #3 compression issues
- Lacks modern safety features: no airbags or traction control ⚠️
- Firm ride—especially harsh if you modify suspension 🛞
- Automatic versions are sluggish and less efficient
✅ Why You Should Buy One
- Experience raw, old-school driving with turbo power and light weight 😎
- Cheap to own if you maintain it properly 💰🧼
- Great tuning potential with an active enthusiast community 🔩💬
- Rising value as a JDM collectible 🚀
🛠️ Buying Checklist
- Ask for full service records (regular oil changes every ~5,000 km) 🧾
- Do a compression test—especially cylinder 3 🔍
- Inspect manifold and windshield seals
- Check gearbox function: manuals should shift cleanly
- Ensure import documents are legit (for non-JP buyers) 📜
- Be ready for sourcing parts if you're not in Japan
📊 Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.3L turbo 4E‑FTE, 135 PS |
| Weight | ~890–920 kg |
| Transmission | 5MT or 4AT, optional LSD |
| Fuel Economy | ~40 mpg (normal use) |
| Reliability | Excellent if maintained |
| Common Issues | Manifold cracks, cylinder compression loss, leaks |
| Safety | Minimal (few with ABS/airbags) |
| Parts Access | Limited—mainly imported |
🧠 Final Thoughts
The EP91 Starlet GT Turbo (Glanza V) is pure JDM magic in hatchback form. It’s punchy, tunable, and full of character—perfect for car enthusiasts who crave excitement over modern luxuries. 🏁
But it’s not for everyone. You’ll need patience with maintenance, some skill (or cash) for repairs, and a love for old-school driving. If that’s you, then this hot hatch could be your dream ride. 🔥