1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Phoenix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. 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, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | Toyota | Pontiac |
| Model | MR2 | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
