1997 Toyota MR2 vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander is newer by 11 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. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1997 Toyota MR2. (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 120 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Toyota MR2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2. 2008 Toyota Highlander 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. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota MR2 | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | MR2 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
