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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 453 kg more than 2006 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, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
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 | 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
