1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 221 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
