1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2002 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Toyota MR2 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | MR2 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 172 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2512 mm |