1997 Toyota MR2 vs. 2003 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 2003 Toyota Avensis is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota MR2 would be higher. Both 1997 Toyota MR2 and 2003 Toyota Avensis are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Avensis. (148 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 170 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Because 1997 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 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Avensis, 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, 2003 Toyota Avensis (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Avensis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2. 2003 Toyota Avensis has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Avensis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota MR2 | 2003 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | MR2 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
