1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2011 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2011 Kia Sportage is newer by 15 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Sportage (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2011 Kia Sportage.
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, 2011 Kia Sportage, 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, 2011 Kia Sportage (228 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2011 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2011 Kia Sportage 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. 2011 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2011 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Toyota | Kia |
| Model | MR2 | Sportage |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1636 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
