1995 Toyota MR2 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1995 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 1995 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 1995 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Toyota MR2 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | MR2 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
