1989 Daihatsu Applause vs. 2004 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Daihatsu Applause. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Daihatsu Applause would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota MR2 (142 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Daihatsu Applause, 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, 2004 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. (134 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. 1989 Daihatsu Applause has automatic transmission and 2004 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2004 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Daihatsu Applause will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Daihatsu Applause | 2004 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Toyota |
| Model | Applause | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.6 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 48 L |
