1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 16 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, 2012 Chevrolet Optra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 404 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Optra.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Optra (166 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2012 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2012 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Toyota | Chevrolet |
| Model | MR2 | Optra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
