1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2010 Mazda 2
To start off, 2010 Mazda 2 is newer by 14 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, 2010 Mazda 2 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 460 kg more than 2010 Mazda 2.
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, 2010 Mazda 2, 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, 2010 Mazda 2 (146 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2010 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2010 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | MR2 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 146 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 | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 45 L |
