1996 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1997 Toyota MR2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Cirrus would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 199 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Because 1997 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 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus, 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | Cirrus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
