1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Citi (81 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi.
Because 1996 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi, 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, both vehicles can yield 131 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 1978 Volkswagen Citi | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Citi |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
