1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2001 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 2001 Toyota Avensis is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota Avensis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota Avensis (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Avensis should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 Toyota Avensis.
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, 2001 Toyota Avensis, 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, 2001 Toyota Avensis (192 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota Avensis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2001 Toyota Avensis 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. 2001 Toyota Avensis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2001 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | MR2 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
