1984 Toyota MR2 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,453 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Toyota MR2 (83 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1984 Toyota MR2 (118 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Toyota MR2 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1453 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
