1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 237 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 New Beetle, 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 New Beetle (220 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
