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Toyota Tercel EL41 1.3i 16V (97 Hp) Automatic
Overall Rating
Toyota Tercel:
The Toyota Tercel is a subcompact car manufactured by Toyota from 1978 until 1999 across five generations, in five body configurations sized between the Corolla and the Starlet. Manufactured at the Takaoka plant in Toyota City, Japan, and sharing its platform with the Cynos and the Starlet, the Tercel was marketed variously as the Toyota Corolla II —sold at Toyota Japanese dealerships called Toyota Corolla Stores—and was replaced by the Platz in 1999. It was also known as the Toyota Corsa and sold at Toyopet Store locations. Starting with the second generation, the Tercel dealership network was changed to Vista Store, as its badge engineered sibling, the Corolla II, was exclusive to Corolla Store locations....(Read more on Wikipedia)
EL41 Overview:
Toyota Tercel (EL41). With 113 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 820 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Toyota Tercel EL41 generation predates the establishment of Euro NCAP testing (1997). As such, it does not have an official rating. Safety features are basic by modern standards, typically limited to seatbelts and a robust chassis for its era.
1.3i 16V (97 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Best suited for urban environments, providing modest acceleration that is sufficient for city speeds but less ideal for demanding highway use.
Fuel Economy
Exceptional fuel efficiency, making it an outstanding choice for those prioritizing low running costs and city commuting.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional fuel economy across the lineup
- • Legendary Toyota reliability and durability
- • Compact and highly maneuverable for city driving
- • Low running and maintenance costs
- • Simple, proven mechanicals
Cons:
- • Basic safety features by modern standards
- • Modest performance (except for the 115 Hp VZ trim)
- • Interior design and materials are dated
- • Can be noisy at highway speeds
- • Limited creature comforts and technology
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(AC52: 1998 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Toyota |
| Model: | Tercel |
| Generation: | EL41 |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.3i 16V (97 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | September, 1990 |
| End of production: | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 97 Hp @ 6400 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 72.9 Hp/l [worst than previous generation] |
| Torque: | 113 Nm @ 5200 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 1331 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 74 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 77.4 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.6:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 4.5 l/100 km |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.5 kg/Hp, 118.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.8 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 820 |
| Max. weight: | 1095 |
| Max load: | 275 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 45 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3930 mm |
| Width: | 1645 mm |
| Height: | 1365 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2380 mm |
| Front track: | 1400 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1430 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 9 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 145/80 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Toyota Tercel!