1974 Toyota Celica vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Celica. (85 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1974 Toyota Celica. 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Celica. (142 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Toyota Celica | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Celica | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
