1996 Mitsubishi Magna vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 7 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Magna. (141 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 134 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1989 Toyota MR2 (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Magna. (205 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Magna.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Magna | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Toyota |
| Model | Magna | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
