1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 203 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
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 GTI, 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 GTI (281 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 GTI | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | GTI |
| 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 | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 281 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 | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
