1989 Toyota MR2 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1989 Toyota MR2.
Because 1989 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 1989 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota MR2. (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Toyota MR2 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | MR2 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
