1971 Austin 1800 vs. 1998 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1998 Toyota MR2 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 41 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 1998 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Austin | Toyota |
| Model | 1800 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
