1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2006 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
