1986 Toyota Carina vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Toyota Carina (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Toyota Carina should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1986 Toyota Carina.
Because 1996 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Toyota Carina, 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, 1986 Toyota Carina (155 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1986 Toyota Carina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Toyota Carina | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Carina | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1832 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
