1958 Porsche 356 vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2001 Toyota MR2 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (119 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Porsche 356 | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Porsche | Toyota |
| Model | 356 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2470 mm |
