1997 Lancia Zeta vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1997 Lancia Zeta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 would be higher. Both 1997 Lancia Zeta and 1989 Toyota MR2 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 Lancia Zeta. (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 410 kg more than 1989 Toyota MR2.
Because 1989 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 1989 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Zeta, 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, 1989 Toyota MR2 (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lancia Zeta. (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lancia Zeta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Zeta | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lancia | Toyota |
| Model | Zeta | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
