Hyundai Stellar
A Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed saloon built on Ford Cortina foundations.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.2 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$6k
About the Hyundai Stellar
The Hyundai Stellar was a pivotal model for the South Korean manufacturer, designed to replace the Ford Cortina which Hyundai had previously assembled under licence. It utilised the Cortina Mk5 chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout, paired with Mitsubishi-sourced engines and a body styled by Italdesign's Giorgetto Giugiaro. While it offered significant interior space and high equipment levels for its price point, its mechanical underpinnings were already dated at launch. Today, it is a rare survivor of the 1980s budget saloon era, noted more for its historical role in Hyundai's global expansion than its driving dynamics.
Hyundai Stellar specs
The Hyundai Stellar produces 75 bhp (56 kW) and 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.2 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Hyundai |
|---|---|
| Model | Stellar |
| Trim | 1.6 GSL |
| Years | 1983–1992 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | South Korea |
| Engine | 1.6-litre Mitsubishi Saturn inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 14.2 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,015 kg (2,238 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 74 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Hyundai Stellar worth?
A typical Hyundai Stellar is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $5,500 (about £1,100 – £4,100).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Hyundai Stellar rarity in CarSpot
The Hyundai Stellar is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 12 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Hyundai Stellar fun facts
- The Stellar's chassis is so closely related to the Ford Cortina that many suspension and braking components are interchangeable between the two cars.
- A special '88' edition was released in 1987 to commemorate the upcoming 1988 Summer Olympics held in Seoul.
- Despite its budget positioning, the GSL trim often featured luxuries rare for its class, such as electric windows, central locking, and adjustable steering.