1997 Toyota MR2 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 103 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1997 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Toyota MR2 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | MR2 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |