1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta (133 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 40 L |
