1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 937 kg more than 1996 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Toyota MR2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 2172 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
