Japan vs Japan — 1965 vs 1997
| Sports 800 UP15 | Prius NHW10 First Generation | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 45 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 42 lb-ft | 75 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 1,497 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.5 sec | 12.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 96 mph | 99 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 21.2 sec | 18.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,279 lbs | 2,734 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,000 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 3,580 mm | 4,275 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,131 | 123,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $19,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1997 Toyota Prius NHW10 First Generation stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 and 1997 Toyota Prius NHW10 First Generation share a manufacturer in Toyota, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Toyota brand. The 1997 Toyota Prius NHW10 First Generation holds a clear advantage in raw power with 70 hp compared to 45 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Sports 800 uses a Flat-2 OHV displacing 790 cc, while the Toyota Prius relies on a Inline-4 DOHC + Electric Motor (Hybrid) with 1,497 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1997 Toyota Prius NHW10 First Generation edges ahead at 12.7 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1455 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,131 units built, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 is considerably scarcer than the Toyota Prius's 123,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 commands a significant premium over the 1997 Toyota Prius NHW10 First Generation, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.